Sadly we’re coming to the end of Thrift Week but gosh it’s been so much fun sharing all these tips and tricks with y’all! We’ve already talked about how to prepare for a thrift trip, today we’re diving into tips to remember while you’re sorting through those racks, bins and more!

ONLY BUY QUALITY

While I love some cheapie type clothing items for DIY projects, thrifting is the time to snag high-end, high-quality items. Not only are they a total steal, they last much longer and will be around for you to love on em much more than a piece from a cheaper brand. Thrifting is a great time to look for well-known and expensive brands for staple items. Even though these pieces will be relatively more expensive- they’re worth it. For example, I purchased a Kenneth Cole winter Coat for less than $40 while thrifting. Granted, this was much more expensive than other $10 or less pieces I was purchasing, but, in looking up the coat online- it retailed for almost $300. Relatively, it became a total win and I can’t wait to wear it this winter.

GOOGLE

If you come across a piece or brand you’re curious about, google it. Chances are it's REAL vintage or even a high-end brand you aren’t familiar with. If not, then you’re avoiding snagging something that isn’t going to last you like it should. Additionally, when looking up pieces and brands you can get a better idea if you’re getting a deal on it. I’ve definitely thrifted at a local store where they were selling a dress from Target that was more expensive in the thrift store than Target’s clearance.

READ LABELS

When it comes to sizing - ignore these. For real - it sounds a little out there but I mean it. With so many brands, decades and styles of clothing on the racks I PROMISE you the sizing is wonky. If you love something, try it on. There are times I have sized way up and way down from my norm and deciding to try it on let me bring it home to be worn and loved.

When it comes to washing/drying instructions - be realistic. If you’re not willing to dry clean an item, hand wash it, iron it or something else, don’t waste your time, money or closet space purchasing. Even if it's a steal and you *swear* you’d dry clean it, I typically say pass. Thrift racks change, laundry habits are (mostly) forever.

THRIFTED ISN’T ALWAYS VINTAGE

So I’m someone who is plenty happy shopping for both thrifted and vintage pieces. However, I know some folks really do prefer one over the other and certainly deserved to not get duped. While the line between the two can be blurred, I try to think of it this way. You MIGHT find a vintage item in a thrift store but you basically NEVER find a thrifted item in a vintage store. Vintage stores are almost exclusively unique, dated pieces that are not made at all anymore. Thrifted pieces can be a pre-owned dress a gal purchased from Target and was ready to donate. There is absolutely nothing wrong with preferring one over the other, but knowing what you want and making sure you get that is important so make sure you keep the difference in mind while shopping!

STAPLES

When in doubt, look for staple items. If you LOVE graphic tees focus on those! If you are obsessed with denim and believe in the power of a kickass pair of jeans - focus on that! Buying staple items not only make your trip a success, they help build out a wardrobe you’re going to love much longer than the span of time gifted to a current trend. Win for you and your closet!

As always, thank you so much for reading! I hope you found these five tips helpful and if you have any I missed, I’d love to hear them below! Happy Friday and (early) National Thrifting Day!