Thrifter Sister

One of the things that most people know about me is that I am a hardcore thrifter. I can't help myself! The deals are just too incredible! Through the years, I've spent many hours culling through many racks of clothing, shoes, belts, and home goods. I seem to have the most luck with clothes! How many kerosene lamps and popcorn makers can one person have?? Ha! I started posting my hauls on Instagram and the stores that I shop at love it! Questions began rolling in about tips and tricks, so I thought I would share some of my strategies with the world :)

Plan of Attack
I have some favorite stores that I frequent, but the most important thing to good thrifting is timing. Pretty much every thrift store has what I call "Deal Days." Generally the deal corresponds to a color coded tag on the item, and can take a percentage off, or can offer the item for a flat price. I know that at my favorite (and most conveniently located store) that special deal day is Wednesday and then the sale runs until Sunday. If the color that week is yellow, all items with a yellow tag are only $1.00. You can't beat it! As a challenge to myself, I NEVER buy any clothing that isn't on sale at this store. Sale at a thrift store, you ask? YES. YES. YES. Think about it: I shop a lot because I barely spend any money (huge perk), and every week my racks to choose from change with the color. It's pretty amazing. Another store that I frequent is a resale shop that offers a loyalty program rewarding you with 20% off of your entire purchase at redemption. That really adds up! All stores are different, so do your research and know the deals!

Set Boundaries
If you aren't careful, thrifting can become borderline addictive. It offers something to go do after work on a day when you don't want to talk to anyone, the money generally goes to a good cause, and there's always a chance you may find a diamond in the rough just laying there waiting to be scooped up! Your rules may not look like mine, and that's totally cool! Here mine are, just for reference: 
          -I never buy any clothing that isn't $1.00 at certain stores.
          -I never buy anything that wouldn't currently fit me (who needs that kind of negativity?).
          -I always check each piece before buying. They almost never offer refunds. 
          -I always ask: "Do I need this? Do I have anything like it?" Then act accordingly.
          -I never go in with expectations. Some days they will be exceeded. Some, not so much. 
          -I generally trade each new item for a old item, so my closet doesn't overflow. 

These keep me in check, keep me focused, and keep my total below $20 for an entire bag of clothes. 

Don't Forget The Shoes!!
Second hand shoes gross some people out, and I totally get that! I used to be one of those people. Honestly. I don't know what happened to me. I started thrifting on the reg, and the amazing finds began changing my mind. You can't pass up a pair of boots that retail for close to $200 for $12. They weren't my size, so I resold them to someone who could love and wear them. I don't buy gross platform flip flops or grandmas keds. I'm super picky because, let's face it; when you normally only spend $1 per item, dropping $6-$10 on a pair of suede flats seems insane! 

Here are a few of my haul pictures:
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I hope this post inspires you to go out and see what you can dig up! There are such great things waiting to be taken home.

​-TJ