I shop thrift stores; you read that right, I shop thrift stores. From Goodwill boutique to Savers, I shop them all. I love quality clothing, but I prefer to avoid high price tags. People get rid of things in excellent condition that’s why I shop in locations that are of more affluent means. What does that mean? Let me break it down for you, girl. Shop thrift stores in well-to-do or, in simpler terms, in areas where people got money! These stores have better clothes and the designer brands I love. After all, if I’m going to thrift, I should feed my label addiction at discounted prices. Hey, wouldn’t you?
I freely admit I’m a label lover. What exactly is a label lover? Well, it’s an individual who likes designer brands draped all over their body. I believe this addiction was passed down to me by my mother, Geneva. The Lauren brand is her ish. I mean, she loves their designer brand. Geneva is a very stylish woman and always well put together when her feet pass the threshold of her home into the world. I’ve yet to meet anyone else (that I know personally) who dresses better than her. Her secret is never to pay full price for any designer brand. She’ll wait until the price comes down and even risks not acquiring the piece of clothing if she feels it is not marked down enough. Me, I’m not that patient, so I…THRIFT!
Why I shop Thrift Stores
Thrifting not only enables me to save money but also helps save our planet and it helps me to live on less. You know that green and blue thing that we inhabit. It helps reduce our carbon footprint on the earth. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a true save the earth person, as I do have habits that probably add to the destruction of our glorious planet, but I am conscious of some things, and waste is one of them.
Not long ago, there was a stigma around shopping at thrift stores. Now, everybody and their mama search the aisles for a sweet deal. It’s exhilarating knowing you paid $2.99 for an item that originally cost $299.00. It’s just the best feeling. On top of that, thrifting allows me to have a unique style. When I walk out the door, I know that no one else will have what I have on. I will look fantastic and set apart from everyone else. It’s a beautiful thing.
What to Look for When Searching for Designer Brands
Stepping into a thrift store can be overwhelming to newbies. Ensure you have a plan before you go because you can easily buy items you don’t need. What is it that you need? A dress for a wedding event or a pair of cotton slacks to lounge in at a pool party. What color(s) are you looking for, and will you need to accessorize the item? Knowing this will help you navigate the array of choices at the thrift store.
Checking the quality of the garment is very important when shopping thrift. Check the garment to ensure that the clothing is not frayed, torn, or with holes. Is there a loose string? Loose strings can lead to unraveling garments. Check the color. Is it faded, or is the item supposed to look like it sat in the sun for six weeks (I am so not a fan of distressed things)?
Thrifting can be a fabulous way to ramp up an outdated wardrobe or add to an already stylish one. Most importantly, try the item on. Yes, try it on, girl! Most thrift stores only allow exchanges and not a refund.
Do you have a clothing budget setup? No, check out our ‘Like to Look Good’ savings tracker. If you like this article checkout this one on Charlotte B. Closet!