I’m in the middle of a $50 fashion challenge against blogger SDBargainMama, who is based in San Diego, and I’m turning to used clothing stores to put together a top notch outfit within budget. Here are my tips for shopping vintage.
- Make a bee line for the clearance and sales rack before you browse full-priced items. You may find just what you are looking for at a fraction of the price.
- Hit the thrift stores on Tuesday or Wednesday, after they have processed weekend donations.
- Shop at thrift stores in better neighborhoods, which will have higher quality stuff.
- Shop with a friend who has an eye for fashion and can help you quickly say yay or nay. (This is not me.)
- Inspect clothes carefully for tears, missing buttons, holes and stains. These imperfections may not be easily visible under store lighting. Ask for a discount if you find any blemishes. Chances are the owner has taken the imperfection into account, but it never hurts to ask.
- Ask if they can give you a discount if you pay in cash, especially if you are buying multiple items.
- Don’t dilly dally if you like something. Stock turns over quickly.
- Broaden your search to include consignment stores, teen re-sale shops, flea markets and shops associated with local fashion schools.
- Sign up for the store’s mail/email list. You likely get coupons, advance news of sales, or a birthday discount.
- Go Green Travel Green has 34 tips, including what NOT to buy at a thrift store (underwear, socks, walking shoes, bike helmets).
Looking for a killer thrift store? One of the best way to find them is to search for thrift stores + your zip code. You can also plug your zip code into TheThriftShopper.com’s directory.
Great tips. I love the challenge of thrift store shopping and finding good deals. And thanks for the link! I’m glad you liked the post.
I go to the city of Ventura once every three or four months. Thrift stores all over the place there, a great chance to find bargains and indulge a bit.
I find great things at the thrift stores.
It takes patience and sorting thru lots of stuff. The end result is usually worth the effort. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find a treasured item on every visit.
Good point, CeeCee. Patience is required when shopping at thrift stores.