It can be overwhelming when you step foot in a thrift store. The possibilities are endless when you gaze upon the countless racks. The girl with the cute platform shoes is shopping right where you wanted to look. You’re praying to stumble across a designer item. Expectations buzz loud. There are so many factors that play into the anxiety of thrifting. I am here to help you alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that you may have in a second hand store. 

Preparation

Before going to a thrift store, consider what you want to accomplish. Here are some questions to help boost some confidence in you before your thrifting adventure:

• What are some pieces that you desperately need in your wardrobe right now?

• Perhaps you need to revamp your basics? Some new statement pieces?

• Is there a particular piece that is difficult to find?

• Keep in mind your location: What items are abundant at these thrift stores? 

• Is there anything you can style ironically or even alter?

• What is your next gameplan if your mission is a complete bust?

• Are there any new styles that you are open to trying? 

OK– You have constructed a game plan. Let’s continue…

You may go into a Goodwill or Salvation Army knowing exactly what to look for. You can follow the intentions you set and not really vibe with anything at the store. It can be a defeating feeling when you are an hour in and cannot find a single thing. Don’t look at it as a waste of time. You may not have luck, but be a consistent customer. Thrift stores are always receiving new inventory. So, having more of a presence can increase your odds of finding a particular piece you have wanted. 

Thrifting is synonymous to time traveling if you don’t come in with intentions. Sometimes if you are not liking anything you are seeing, move onto the next store, or wait a couple of days. Do not force yourself to keep looking– this is where you will waste your time. Sometimes it is nice to aimlessly browse, but as a college student, having time to waste can be a luxury. 

Before perfecting my thrifting skills, I found myself spending over 2 hours looking through every nook and cranny of the store. Sifting through clothes carefully can actually make you more conscious of what you want your wardrobe and style to look like. Be creative with it too. 

What I Look for at Thrifts: Winter Edition

• I am always looking for a cool sweatshirt. Living in cold weather means that you can never have enough hoodies and crewnecks. 
• Psst! Want to receive more compliments? Wear knitted/fuzzy ponchos. Ponchos do not get enough hype. I rarely see people wear them, so it will makes your style more unique. Not to mention, I always see cool poncho pieces whenever I thrift.
• Literally anything with animals. Shirts with animal animations definitely add a quirky element to an outfit. Try and look for the t-shirt brand, The Mountain. It is a pretty popular item to find in thrift stores. I love how dramatic some of the graphics are.
• Funny shirts make a great conversation starter. I recently got a tee that says “Margaritas.”
• JEANS. Baggy, lowrise, Levis, Wranglers. A good thrift will have an array of jeans. I can’t specify this category because there are so many cool styles.
• Lingerie dresses. It sounds gross, but I highly recommend looking through second hand lingerie. Lingerie blouses or dresses can make for a super cute going out outfit. Buying spring/summer clothes makes me look forward (and prepared) for warmer weather.