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A great number of people dislike thrift stores, for a number of reasons. Often people feel they are “above” thrift stores, that thrift stores carry nothing but junk, or that thrift stores are dark, dirty, and depressing. While there certainly are some pretty dismal thrift stores out there, most are fairly clean and well-organized stores that weed out the broken, filthy, and otherwise unusable before putting stock on the sales floor. And the customers come from all walks of life, from street-walking transvestites to trendy college kids to retired heiresses.
I took some time out and decided to create my own little guide to thrift shopping as well my outfit features pieces that I have found at thrift stores besides the socks enjoy.
Know surrounding areas: I've noticed that thrift stores get placed. In areas of high traffic or cluster busy areas. So get to know your areas and where there maybe other thrift stores surrounding you.
Select a day: To get a great outcome from thrifting and find great pieces, you must take your time. Thrifting isn't really something you can do on a 30 minute break on a hectic schedule. To find great pieces you it takes a lot of time and effort. And even then you might not find anything you may like.
Be open minded: One of the fun things about thrifting is that you will see things that lend themselves to uses quite different from their original intended functions. For example, a waste-basket can hold poster tubes, a suitcase can act as a coffee table, a record crate can be turned sideways to organize binder’s, books, files, etc. Keep your eyes as well as your mind open for objects the might fill a need in an unusual and interesting way. But at the same time do not get carried away with your purchases just due to the fact it’s at a low price. I myself must admit I have made a lot of purchases that i look at today and say to myself " what on earth was I thinking" and they just end up sitting there collecting dust.
Be aware of sales/specials: The subtitle speaks for itself; I have entered thrift stores completely oblivious to why it would be so packed, busy, and hectic as usual. And little did I know I was in middle of a 50% sale, and for those who have ever been to a 50% sale at a thrift store. Know they are pretty hectic, so prepare yourself and get there as early as possible to avoid the rush.
Know what it is that you want: Thrift stores aren't only great for unique and vintage clothing pieces, but as well you can have great household accessories. Such as kitchen ware, books, office supplies, etc. Furniture is also something that they carry. But of course while purchasing these items be sure that they are attractive, what you need, and it’s in good quality. Take a good time out to scan and analyze before you make a purchase. You don't want to purchase something you may end up regretting or returning.
Prepare for a miss: Thrift shopping is really a hit or miss adventure. At your average store you can walk in knowing you will most likely find what it is that you want/need. Thrifting is great because you can find pieces that would not be carried anywhere else. Giving you that great unique style and look. However, with this you may not find anything at all, that’s where being creative and open minded can really kick in and save the day. To hopefully help you explore and give that piece that you don't think you would ever wear. A chance and try it out and possibly purchase it.
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