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Because, let's face it, most of us can't afford to build a wardrobe, or decorate a house, with all full price, quality pieces that we love. However, there are other ways to supplement style without breaking the bank. Goodwills and thrift stores often have quality pieces (sometimes designer brands) just waiting to be found.
The other day, I wore this pair of Ann Taylor suede pumps to work - a pair I found at Goodwill for a grand total of $3.00! Now, not everything at Goodwill is worth the (very) few dollars on the price tag, so you have to be picky. But every so often, you can find a real gem if you take the time to look. Here are a few of my tips and tricks for "Goodwill hunting":
No. 1 - The best overall suggestion I can make is to find a couple of Goodwill stores in your area and stop in every now and then when you happen to be running errands nearby. On most of my trips to Goodwill, I leave empty handed, but every now and then I find a goldmine. It's really a "hit-or-miss" kind of a game.
No. 2 - Jeans
- Know Your Stuff - I've found that it's best to already have a good handle on which brands of denim fit you well. If you go in looking for specific brands and sizes, you can cut out a lot of time rifling through and trying on jeans.
- All About Color - As you walk down the aisle, look for denim in washes that you like. I always gravitate toward darker washes, but that's just my preference
- Quality, Quality, Quality - When a color you like catches your eye, check out the quality of the denim. The best way to do this is to feel the fabric and look at the brand. Most Goodwill stores are chock full of Target brand and Old Navy brand jeans - I recommend skipping right on past those guys. Here's why: they tend to be lower quality denim, and you can buy them new for just a few dollars more. Look for brands like Paige Denim, Citizens of Humanity, Joe's Jeans, 7 For All Mankind, J Brand, Hudson, and Paper Denim and Cloth. These brands hold up well and fit so much better than Old Navy jeans. Also, keep your eyes peeled for brands you know you like, such as Madewell, J. Crew, and Gap.
- How Much Wear - If you find a pair of jeans that you like, check out the hem. Jeans that are starting to wear out usually have a pretty messy hem. If the hem is messy and the jeans are too long for you, you can always take them to a tailor and get rid of that messy hem, but that's up to you.
No. 3 - Shoes
- New and Only New- My one tip for shoes is this: look for new shoes. Most of the shoes at Goodwill are worn out and nasty. The pair of shoes that I bought and wore recently were almost brand new when I found them at Goodwill. Stay away from shoes that have no life left, and look for ones that are made by reputable brands.
No. 4 - Tops
- All About Color - Look for colors that you would normally gravitate towards if you were shopping in a department store. Please don't buy the shirt in the putrid shade of green just because it fits you and still has the designer tag attached. Find the section with the colors that you already like.
- How Much Wear - Be sure to give the shirt a thorough once-over. Any spots? Holes? Deodorant stains? Pilling? Steer clear of anything that is past repair.
No. 5 - Decor
- Know What You Want - I find that it's best to go in knowing what you are looking for. I always look for picture frames, mirrors, and ginger jars. My brothers look for record albums to use as wall art.
No. 6 - Check the men's section for over-sized flannel shirts, wool sweaters, and button-ups to wear with leggings in the fall and winter.
No. 7 - If you find something in nearly perfect condition, but either it doesn't fit or isn't your style, you might consider buying it anyway. Here's why: you can resell clothing and shoes (especially designer brands) by taking them to a local consignment shop or sending them to Tradesy or Poshmark or ThredUp. I've done this with designer jeans I found in excellent condition, just not my size.
Anyone have other thrift-shopping tips to add?
$3? score!
ReplyDeleteI was so excited when I found them!
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