3 Fascinating Reasons to Embrace Second-Hand Clothing
Second-hand clothing is the latest trend, and it’s going to overtake fast fashion in next few years. Fast-fashion is the speed-to-market business model causing fashion waste crisis while secondhand is here to overcome the crisis caused by fashion waste.
Secondhand clothing business is booming as the market uniquely meets the consumers’ preference for value, variety, and sustainability. Below listed are the reasons that will surely make you embrace the secondhand hand clothing.
1) Pay less for more
Obviously, used clothes are cheaper than the new ones. Expensive clothes are no more expensive! You will find expensive brands falling into your budget. While shopping, we need to vote for what is right with our pocket. Thrift shops in Destin, FL understand your pocket well and offer you the best.
Research has found that shoppers from all price level are buying secondhand clothes. At the luxury retail end, 26% of shoppers buy used goods. In the mid-market, it stands at 25% and 22% depending on discounts. The secondhand market has provided an awesome budget to shoppers.
2) Dress for the planet
Fashion is the 2nd largest polluting industry in the world. Fabrics aren’t biodegradable, and industry’s raw materials consume a vast amount of resources and leave behind huge levels of pollution and emissions- around 20% of the world’s wastewater and 10% of carbon emission comes from the fashion industry, reported by UNECE.
What happens to our used clothes? 64% of what we buy ends up in landfills. Buying used goods instead of new extend the cloth’s life and reduce the garment’s carbon footprint by 82%. The Secondhand market is reducing pressure on virgin resources used for making new clothes and the number of problems caused by their manufacture and usage. To attain sustainability, we should be conscious about 5Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Reinvent and Repair.
If we all can buy just ONE used cloth instead of new, we can really make a huge collective positive impact on our planet.
3) Personalize your style
Secondhand clothing has personalized the style for everyone. Now you don’t really need to visit big shops to pick the trendy style that everyone else is picking. The secondhand market has a huge variety of vintage fashion. Grab your style. Be more specific. Be more creative. Be classier.
Fight on Fashion
Fashion is cyclical. By embracing secondhand clothing, you can breakdown the stigma of second-hand clothing. We all need to fight on fashion to live a healthy and wealthy life. Inspire others to join the fight on fashion by embracing used goods
3 Things You Should Always Buy Secondhand—and One to Skip
Everyone wants to save a couple of bucks, but when is it worth it and when should you consider shelling out more than you might want to? When it comes to home appliances, decor, and furniture, you can find a lot of good deals and quality comparable to new when shopping secondhand at thrift shops in Destin, FL. But before you head to your local second-hand store, know that some things require a closer look. Buying secondhand is great for the environment and your wallet, but you want to make sure that you’re returning home with quality items.
Definitely worth buying secondhand: lighting
Don’t shy away from DIY projects either, if you’re not finding exactly what you’re looking for. “For the DIYers out there, it is very easy to modernize old brass fixtures with a coat of regular or textured spray paint,” Lee says. “We often stock new and modern lighting that is half retail price.” And if the lighting isn’t exactly in working condition, here’s good news: Rewiring a light fixture is not as hard as it sounds.
Definitely worth buying secondhand: furniture
“With imagination and a little elbow grease, you can turn a worn but well-loved table, dresser, bookshelf, or chair into a refinished or repainted masterpiece to fit any decor, and at a fraction of the price of a new built-from-a-box piece,” Lee says.
Another benefit to buying used? A lot of old furniture is especially well made. Look for solid wood pieces, which have more refinishing potential since they can be both painted and stained. On dressers, sideboards, or end tables, check for signs of craftsmanship like dovetail joinery on the drawers; on other pieces, you can check for signs of peeling veneer to get an idea as to whether or not the wood is solid.
That’s not to say wood is the only thing you can refinish, though. Chalk-finish paint and spray paint are both versatile and work for re-painting a variety of materials, from laminate to metal.
Definitely worth buying secondhand: cabinets
When redoing their kitchens, a lot of homeowners think they have to either work with what they have or buy new. Not so.says
While you may not be wild about the finish or door style either, it’s crucial to note that doors are much cheaper to buy new than cabinet boxes—so even if you get used boxes to pair with new doors, you’re still saving a ton of money. As for finishes, cabinets can be repainted by any patient DIYer; solid wood ones can be re-stained, too.
Skip buying secondhand: appliances you don’t have the full scoop on
When it comes to large appliances—refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and the like—don’t buy secondhand before giving them a thorough once-over. If they don’t meet the below standards, skip ‘em, pros say.
“If you’re considering buying a secondhand appliance, you’ll want to make sure first and foremost that it fully functions, so ask the place you’re buying it from to turn it on for you,” Carson, of Handy, advises. “In addition, make sure to check that the connections are all intact—the power cord should be clean from any taped-up wires. If it’s an appliance like a dishwasher or washing machine, make sure the water connections are clear and that the seller gives you all the correct hoses to install it in your home.”
Another thing to keep in mind with appliances is that older models—ones that are a decade old or more—might work just fine, but could cost you lots in energy usage. For instance, EnergyStar has a calculator to help you figure out how much extra cost to anticipate depending on the year of manufacture for your fridge, which will help give you a better idea of what your long-term costs are.
Of course, there are caveats to this recommendation: If you’re able to find a unique vintage piece with lots of character—like a 1940s gas range—it might be worth the hassle to get it up to working order for your own home. After all, with all the wear that comes with secondhand appliances, there’s tons of character to be found, too.
Benefits of Buying and Re-purposing Used Furniture
Whether you’re moving or just looking for a quick design change, selecting new furniture is a big part of the process. Unfortunately, furniture shopping can get extremely expensive and isn’t very environmentally friendly. Purchasing used furniture, or re-purposing your own furniture, can actually be a better option.
If you haven’t done so before, you may not know where to begin. Below we cover the benefits of purchasing used furniture and restoration.
Benefits of buying used furniture
Some people are turned off by the idea of buying used furniture because they assume it’s in bad condition. It’s possible to run into a few bad pieces if not careful, but the reality is some used furniture can be very high quality. The following are three benefits of buying used furniture:
1. Less expensive
It’s no surprise that furniture shopping can get expensive. Realistically speaking, furniture diminishes in value as soon as it’s purchased. With a little bit of searching, you can find that high price tag item for much cheaper when it’s used.
2. Supporting your local business owners
Buying used furniture is a great way to support your community. When you buy used furniture, the money goes into the pockets of your neighbors. It’ll feel much better purchasing an item when you know your money is going into helping your neighborhood.
3. More environmentally friendly
People shop for furniture more often than you think. This can be because of moving needs, outgrowing old furniture, or even just a desire for change. An increase in purchases, however, leads to an increase in waste. Out of the 12 million tons of furniture that Americans toss out yearly, 80 percent ends up in a landfill, which negatively impacts the environment.
Places you can buy used furniture
Used furniture can be found for sale in many places. Today’s most popular way to purchase is through online platforms, such as through Facebook marketplace. This is not only a great way to buy used furniture, but also sell your old pieces as well.
Second-hand stores are also another place you can find used furniture. Consider making a trip to your local thrift store in Panama City Beach, FL, as you never know what you may find.
Yard sales or estate sales can also have some hidden gems. You can also bargain in these situations. More often than not, people are willing to sell things at lower prices to get rid of them faster.
Purchasing tips and tricks
There are some things to keep in mind when buying used furniture. If possible, go evaluate and inspect the piece with your own eyes. Test it out and make sure it’s functioning properly and doesn’t have any damage that you couldn’t see in photos.
Try and also avoid buying used furniture that can be unhygienic. This includes mattresses, pillows, and blankets. The last thing you need is an infestation of bed bugs to deal with in the middle of the night. Likewise, beware of bad smells. They can be hard to get rid of and it’s better just to pass on a smelly item.
Believe it or not, you can actually rub a walnut on wood furniture to make scratches seem less visible. The walnut’s oil seeps into the wood to achieve this.
The clothing industry continues to grow, and what is mainly available for your kids is often made with unsustainable fabrics. There are extensive issues in the clothing industry, but specifically the waste that is created from kids clothing is huge as they are constantly outgrowing their clothes. However, there are a couple ways to make your child’s clothing more sustainable and long-lasting.
Buy Second Hand
One of the easiest solutions is to buy clothing second hand from a thrift shop in Panama City Beach, FL. This solution makes clothing not only sustainable but also more affordable as shopping at secondhand stores is usually cheaper than buying new clothes. Reusing these clothes also keeps them out of the landfill, giving them a longer life. It is the perfect way to get some new clothes for your child without having to buy any new fabrics. Buying second hand is easy, there are tons of second hand stores in most cities.
Donate so others have the opportunity to live sustainably
Donating your child’s clothes once they outgrow them, makes it possible for others to use them, again extending their life, making them more sustainable. Often, as kids grow so fast, clothing which is still perfectly good ends up in the landfill whereas if it is donated it allows other kids to wear the clothes and helps to continue the second hand tradition.
Hand-me-downs are a great way to save money
Hand me down clothing is often done between family members or friends passing the clothes their kids have grown out of directly down to children that could wear them again. This is beneficial because its free and can be passed down directly to another family that you know.
Clothing Swaps are fun, easy ways to trade old clothes for some new ones for your child!
Similarly, clothing swaps allow clothes to be passed down so that other children can wear them. Clothing swaps can be fun events to organize with friends and family and allow a wider selection of clothing to choose from.
Composting natural fibres
There are some fibres which are compostable, meaning that they will not remain in the landfill for long periods of time, making them the most environmentally sustainable choice for clothing. Environmental considerations are extremely important when considering buying clothes for your children. After all, your children will be the next generation on earth, so the effect that you have on it directly impacts them.
Natural fibres, such as items made from pure wool or cotton will decompose, while synthetic fibres, such as polyester, will not. Buying natural fibres and composting them will limit the amount of clothes in landfills, and will have virtually no negative environmental impact. If you have to buy new fabrics, buying something sustainable, like hemp, also allows for a more sustainable lifestyle.
Upcycling is a chance to make something brand new
Upcycling is taking clothes and changing them so that they can be used again or used for longer. It can be done with kids clothes, such as adding a strip of fabric to the bottom of a skirt to make it longer so your child can wear it for longer; or it can be done with adult clothes which can be altered so that they fit the children, such as in the image below.
Upcycling is a great way to change clothes to create something totally new and different from what you already have without having to buy any new fabrics.
Repairing your child’s clothes simply helps them last longer
Repairing clothes which have been damaged, like when your child rips a hole in the knee of his or her pants, allows the clothes to have a much longer life. These repairs can be fun and cute and make the clothes last significantly longer; often clothes that have ripped do not need to be thrown out can can be fixed quite simply.
While it is challenging to raise your child sustainably, there are many simple ways to help ensure that their clothing has a longer life and stays out of the landfill. These solutions can be fun and very informative for your child as you can teach them all about a sustainable lifestyle and how they can make a positive impact.
In the U.S., 9.8 million tons of furniture ended up in the landfill in 2009 alone. In the consumerist society within which we live, we’re so oriented around what’s next that we often neglect to appreciate what we have. Purchasing used furniture offers innumerable benefits both to you as a consumer and to our society in general, but here’s a list of five to start.
1. It saves resources
Our world has reached “peak furniture,” according to former chief sustainability officer at Ikea, Steve Howard.
“In the West we have probably hit peak stuff. We talk about peak oil. I’d say we’ve hit peak red meat, peak sugar, peak stuff, peak home furnishings,” said Howard.
The furniture industry is highly wasteful, and it takes a lot of resources to create new pieces, despite the fact that more than enough furniture already exists that is in good condition.
The depletion of natural resources is speeding up, and materials used to build furniture, like timber, are in high demand. Every piece of furniture that you purchase second-hand means the materials that would have been used to build it can be put to better use elsewhere.
2. It reduces waste
We’re constantly persuaded to consume more. Both by television and media as well as by societal expectations. We’ve been convinced that there is a time limit on furniture items, and that when it goes off, you must replace our old piece with its newer version. This means we throw things out before we need to, even if the item is in perfectly good shape.
One of the best ways to help keep unnecessary items out of the dump is to shop second-hand from a thrift store in Panama City Beach, FL. When individuals opt to donate instead of tossing their furniture to the curb and a customer picks it out as the perfect piece for their home, you’re extending the lifecycle of a quality item and diverting waste from our already overburdened landfills.
3. It costs less
Canadians spent over $52 million on home furniture and furnishings in 2018, reveals Stats Can. Furniture is a highly lucrative industry and we as consumers are fueling its growth.
Oftentimes when we replace furniture, it’s not an item that needs replacing, but rather it’s one that we want to replace. But when you take a step back and put the purchase into context, do you truly feel it’s worth it to spend $2,000 on a brand-new couch? That same money could be used to fund a week-long vacation.
On the other hand, used furniture generally costs way less. That same couch initially priced at $2,000 could cost as little as $300, in nearly the same condition as it was when new.
Another great thing about buying low-cost used furniture, is that it’s less of a commitment. Purchasing a brand-new couch is an investment. Purchasing a second-hand couch at an affordable price is less of a commitment, and if you change your mind, you can always resell it at a similar price.
4. It benefits the community
Whereas large furniture stores rely on global supply chains and overseas manufacturing, second-hand stores tend to operate much more locally. Used furniture stores are generally independent and employ individuals who live right within your neighbourhood.
Many second-hand stores also give back to the community. To see which used furniture stores actually make a difference and actively support local not-for-profit organizations, click here.
5. Second-hand furniture has history
Every piece of used furniture has a story behind it. Maybe this floor lamp once sat in the study of a celebrated author, or maybe it was the light a mother used to read bedtime stories to her children. Whatever its history, there’s something special about owning an item that is a one-of-a-kind piece, rather than one assembled from a kit that’s in thousands of other homes across the country.
By purchasing used furniture, you’re giving the piece a second chance. This item is becoming a part of your story, and maybe one day, you’ll pass that history along to another family.
According to Gumtree the average British household currently has 22 unwanted or unused items, worth a potential £881, lurking around.
It has researched the market for selling, swapping, buying or donating pre-loved items and discovered a booming second-hand economy.
In fact, its research found, 42% of people made an average £378 by selling unwanted or unused items in the last year.
Bargain hunters:
It’s not just those selling old items who are benefiting from the second-hand market. Indeed, bargain hunters trying to cut their spending by purchasing pre-loved goods forked out an average of £1,298 per person in the past year.
The most popular items, according to Gumtree’s global ‘Second-Hand Economy Report’, were cars and books but people are also keen on pre-loved DVDs or CDs as well as collectibles and antiques.
Environmental impact:
While saving money and making extra cash were major bonuses of the second-hand economy these were not the main reasons people were supporting it. In fact Gumtree found the majority of Brits had recognized the importance of second-hand buying and selling in reducing waste.
Indeed, two thirds of people questioned said the most important benefit was recycling.
A spokesperson for Gumtree, said: “Our research shows how the second-hand economy excels for all-round value. It provides people with the chance to both make and save money but also helps reduce waste and encourages a more sustainable world, so it’s important in today’s current climate.
You can also donate:
If you don’t wish to sell your clothes you can donate them to thrift shops in Panama City Beach, FL. Donation is a good cause and these stores are run by non profit organization. Go ahead and donate.
Environmental Benefits of Donating Clothing: Do Something Good for You, for Others, and for the Environment
In the age of social media fashionistas and beauty gurus, it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of the hunt for the latest rags. Last year’s outfits linger on in the dark side of the closet until they form a looming pile of fashion faux pas eating up all your free space.
This all leads to the cliched scene of people standing in front of a mountain of “so-last-season” outfits and mismatched accessories, proclaiming, once again, that they don’t have anything to wear. Sound familiar?
Well, modern fashion is a fickle mistress, and her moods keep changing all the time, with new trends replacing old ones within a few months. So, what does one do with all that perfectly functional, yet tragically outdated or no longer fitting clothes?
Believe it or not, donating clothes to thrift store in Destin, FL not only helps bring a smile to someone’s face, but it’s actually great for the environment. Here are a few more details on why that is, and how you can contribute.
The Fast Fashion Crisis
The global clothing production has nearly doubled in the last 15 years thanks to the growing middle class and bigger purchasing power.
While a strong middle class is essential for a healthy economy, it’s brought along certain problems with it.
The fashion industry has taken advantage of the bigger purchasing power and pushed forward the trend of fast fashion.
This means that the consumers are constantly forced to discard of their barely used clothes, since they quickly go out of style, and keep on buying new products.
The problem with this is that the fashion industry is notoriously wasteful and has a detrimental effect on the environment. This is why it’s crucial for us as the consumers to let go of the fast fashion and take an active part in creating a sustainable circular economy.
Clothing Donation Reduces Landfills
If more consumers opted to reuse or repurpose their clothes or donate them so that they can start their second life someplace else, it could have a very positive effect on the environment.
One of the bigger problems that the world is facing today is textile-waste. Compared to the year 2000, the average consumer today buys 60% more items of clothing but keeps those items for half as long.
Seeing how only a small percentage of clothing is donated or recycled, most of these textiles are taken to the landfills.
The problem here is that landfills aren’t only destroying the aesthetic appeal of a neighborhood, they add to our pollution levels.
Decomposing textiles emit toxins that are released into the air and water and are polluting our environment. The bigger our landfills, the higher the levels of pollution.
Clothing Donation Saves Water
The meaning here is twofold. Primarily, when you donate clothes and they’re reused by someone else, there’s no need for such high production of new items since there would be no one to buy them.
Now, to produce new clothes, the fashion industry uses inordinate amounts of water. Take for example cotton, it is a popular material used in textile production, and it’s a plant that’s highly water intensive.
Secondly, clothing donation saves water by protecting it from polluting chemicals. Think back to the huge landfills and the toxins released by textiles. When the rain falls on those landfills, the water rinses out the chemicals, and together they accumulate at the base of the landfill, eventually finding their way down to the groundwater.
On the other hand, we have clothes made of synthetic materials, namely nylon. Not only does the production of nylon involve great greenhouse gas emissions, but nylon breaks down in the washing machines and causes a buildup of microplastics in our water systems.
It Helps Us Reduce Our Carbon Footprint
The more dangerous chemicals released by decomposing textiles in the landfills are carbon dioxide and methane, both very potent greenhouse gasses that add to the global warming crisis.
The production of new clothes creates problems as well. The fashion industry is estimated to be contributing to around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, that’s well above the travel and tourism industries.
The production of new clothes requires a lot of water and a lot of power. The more power you need, the bigger the emissions of greenhouse gases.
If the fashion industry continues in the manner of “business per usual,” and if the consumers keep buying then quickly discarding of new clothing, continuing with the fast fashion trend, gas emissions will continue to rise and our environment will continue to be polluted.
Clothing donation will ensure that all the water and energy that was used in the creation of new garments will not simply go to waste. The longer used clothing is in circulation, the fewer clothes will be produced and discarded at landfills.
You Can Help Those in Need
Donating your used clothing can help countless people. Primarily, donated clothes are often sent to third world countries to be sold at cheaper prices. This allows people living in poverty to afford much-needed clothes and shoes.
Secondly, your donations are also sent to disaster-stricken areas. Those affected by natural disasters or war have to flee from their homes and are often left with no possessions at all. You can help them by donating clothing and other items that you no longer have a need for.
Circular Economy Helps Us Build a Brighter Future
By donating used clothing, you’ll be contributing to the circular economy where things are manufactured, used for as long as possible, then recycled. The circular economy would help us build a sustainable environment where things don’t go to waste as easily, and where everything is being used to its maximum potential.
So as far as your used clothing goes, if you’re not using it, put it back into circulation. Your clothing donation will help you do something good for the environment, for others, and in the end, for yourself.
Middle-class folks who aspire to own branded clothes but are unable to do so now have the opportunity to buy them for a fraction of their original cost. This is because of the sudden surge in the emergence of second-hand clothing stores.
Those who were unable to afford fancy labels can now buy what their heart desires from thrift shops in Destin, FL. What’s more, people who want to make a quick buck can do so by selling their pre-owned fashion for a pre-decided rate.
Let’s look at how the procedure works.
Decision to sell
Once you decide to sell pre-owned clothes, start with a quick check to see if the brand is part of the pre-approved list of the shortlisted second-hand stores. Once you sort that out, you can sell your clothes to them.
Schedule a pick-up
Fill-up a form and then click to schedule a pick-up from the concerned store. You can mostly send in as many clothes as you want. Most companies will arrange for a free pick-up and bring the clothes in-house. Ensure that the garment is packed in a sturdy cloth bag. It needs to be firmly sealed and make a clear note of the garments being sent for verification.
Quality check
Based on the parameters decided by the consignment store, all garments go through a stringent quality check process performed by the store’s staff. Every product is fully sanitized to make sure that the best is offered to buyers. The garment is only approved if it meets all the criteria required by the consignment store.
Price
The rate of the approved clothing is decided by the second-hand stored and has to be approved by the person selling the garment. The clothes that are not approved are either returned to the seller or can be donated to the company’s charity partner (if they have one).
Photography
Once the garments are approved, the second-hand clothing store then gets the clothes photographed. Then high-quality images of the attire are uploaded on its official website.
Payment
The seller is paid the mutually-agreed amount after the garment is purchased by a new buyer.
There are two major reasons for going shopping at thrift stores. First, you save money. The other reason is because of the hunt. Finding a new (to you) treasure can be so fun.
Best tips for shopping at the thrift store
While treasures can be found at thrift stores, you have to weed through a lot of junk. That being said, these are 10 things are available at thrift store in Panama City Beach, FL.
1. Furniture
Furniture at thrift stores is typically marked down significantly and you can get a pretty excellent deal on pieces. Fixer upper pieces of furniture that you plan to paint or hack are especially great to buy at thrift stores. It’s not all used stuff all the time. You never know when you’re going to get lucky! Tip for furniture shopping: Ask a customer service representative about potential sale dates. Our local Goodwill has certain specials on certain days one of them being half-off furniture!
2. Trays
Trays are great for organizing and keeping things together. Whether it’s in your kitchen or on the coffee table, trays are great catchall pieces and they can be found for CHEAP at thrift stores.
3. Vases, Jars, Candlesticks
Thrift stores usually have an abundance of glass vessels like vases and jars. Any blue and white ceramic pieces usually find their way into my cart. If you are looking for mason jars, surely you’ll find them for around $.50 at the thrift store!
4. Baskets
Another one of my tips for shopping thrift stores is look for baskets! They always have lots and lots of baskets. Medium sized baskets at Target or any home store is usually between $12-$20. So grabbing them for less than $5 at the thrift store is a HUGE score! Not only are baskets great for organizing at home, they are also great for gift giving.
5. Frames
Large sized frames can get pricey so hit up thrift stores first to see if you can find any wood frames that can be repurposed. Not only for large frames but smaller ones for gallery walls. That goes for frames of all sizes! You don’t have to keep the art, either – if the frame is in solid condition, buy it and pop in your own art!
6. Mirrors
Buying mirrors at thrift stores is another money saver. Framed mirrors make your space feel bigger so they are the ultimately accessory for your walls. That said, framed mirrors are expensive! $50 is about the going rate. You can save big bucks by finding one at a thrift store.
7. Throw Pillows
Okay, so you may have raised your eyebrows at this one but hear me out. It might freak you out to buy pillows from the thrift store but sometimes those pillows have high-quality down-filled inserts. You can purchase throw pillows for a couple of bucks, toss out the pillow covers, and use the high-quality inserts. Find affordable pillow covers here.
8. Lamps + Lighting
You can find Chandeliers and new pendants still in the box at thrift stores. So while you might not find something good every time, keep your eyes peeled. Lamps can be spruced up with paint so if you see one that works and is a pretty shape, scoop it up.
9. Flatware + Dinnerware
Another thrift store buying tip is to browse the dishes. Thrift stores always have an abundance of dishes and flatware. It can be frustrating going through it all but when you find a piece that is truly one of a kind, it’s totally worth it!
10. Books
If you don’t find anything at the thrift store, you almost always find a book or two. You can find the sweetest vintage children’s books that are gently used and in great condition.
Thrifting has evolved so much throughout the years. What once was a budgeting necessity is now a Western past-time. Celebrities and IT-girls everywhere are flaunting their thrifted finds. It’s fun but, of course work. Hopefully you learn some things but most importantly have fun reading along, that’s always the goal! So let’s get started!
BYOB: Bring Your Own Bag, OK?
Reusable shopping bag made from an old t-shirt
The end of your shopping experience will actually be our first focus: the shopping bag. We are consumers and as consumers we produce an unbelievable amount of waste. If we, as a society can make small, intentional choices to help reduce that waste, why wouldn’t we?? So bring your reusable bag! This keeps your super eco-choice to shop used, recycled wares consistently earth-friendly.Tip: If you’re forgetful like me, I recommend buying several bags to leave in your car and at home. It’s also helps to make a habit of hanging them on your front door handle; they will be the last thing you see and the first thing you grab on your way out!
Don’t Dress Up
It’s not that you shouldn’t look cute when your thrifting, you do you! But, if you’re shopping for clothes you best be willing and ready to get in that fitting room! If you’re not trying things on you are taking on the totally unnecessary risk of buying something that is non-refundable and you may not like on. Leave that top that you love but that takes you 7 min to lace up at home. I guarantee you are NOT going to want to try things on if your having to flail around in a small closet to get your clothes back on every time you find a prospective pair of jeans. I suggest, wearing your easy, breezy elastic waist pants, a tee and slip-ons. Whatever you choose, just be sure it is easy to take on and off believe me, you won’t regret it.
Choose Your Music
I have become all too dependent on having my own music at any given time. I don’t know if this will be as much of a deal breaker as it is for me but, be sure to bring your headphones. The goal is to create your ideal space when your thrifting and Nickelback is NOT a part of my ideal space! Which is, unfortunately, what plays a lot at my local thrift store. Thrifting/life is better when you are enjoying and jamming to your favorite playlist.
Make a Game Plan
My very own Pinterest want list with an obvious emphasis on all things tied or knotted.
Ok, this may sound a little intense as a shopping tip but it is probably the most important piece of advice. So many people tell me they hate thrifting because: it’s time consuming, their efforts seem frivolous or it’s too overwhelming. I akin this to a lack of planning. As with any shopping if you are flying in there blind you are going to waste your time, feel overwhelmed and walk out with nothing or even worse, things you don’t even need or like. We’ve all experienced this; one word, Costco.
So how do we avoid this? Create a physical list, I don’t care whether it is on paper or on Pinterest. You need to know what exactly you are hoping to find. For example, if you are in dire need of new jeans and know that you like light washes best then you have just eliminated about 98% of the aisles to peruse. You’re going to save majorly on time and your own sanity. So, plan ahead and understand your needs.
Sign Up for Rewards
Ok, ok this isn’t a shocking or special tip but there are a lot of people that don’t realize that almost all thirfit store chains have a email list or rewards program customers can get coupons through. Thrift Town has an amazing emailing list that can send coupons for almost 50% off! Now, some of the smaller, local shops don’t have the ability or capacity to send out promotions like the chains do but most offer special deals throughout the week. Ask your friendly sales associate what specials they have through the week. One of my favorite local shops, St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, has 40% off of furniture every Friday. It’s totally worth asking.
Gender Bender
Vintage Men’s Wrangler’s available exclusively at No Longer Wander Shop
You’ve heard it on Queer Eye and you’ll hear it here. Don’t be afraid of your opposite sex’s section. I’ve found so many gems in the men’s section, it’s a treasure trove! I can’t tell you how many amazing jackets I found in the men’s section. Also, little known fact men’s jeans can look SUPER cute on your lady bod. Don’t believe me? Check out those lady curves in those men’s Wranglers! Don’t be scared, take the risk and try on those vintage men’s Levi’s and Wrangler’s. They are generally high-rise, real denim and have amazing color and wear. Which is the perfect segue to our next topic: The Vintage Section.
Vanity Sizing
If you’ve been in any number of thrift stores you are probably aware that most have a vintage section which doesn’t mean all of the vintage gems in the store can be found there. However, it does present a huge opportunity for some amazing pieces. Now, there is something very important to be said about sizing when shopping vintage and it requires a little history. So let’s go back about 60 years to 1958 when was when the first standard size chart for women arrived made set forth by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Then, the sizes were event numbers from 8-38. Yeah… That’s waaay different than what we have now. The 1960’s size 8 is our modern day 00. As time went on, clothing companies got smart and thought, “I bet if we adjust our sizes so more ladies fit into a size 8, they’d feel more confident in our clothing and purchase it”, so that’s what they did. A 1970’s size 8 was our modern 2. By 1983 the standard was pretty much thrown out the window and by 1995 a size 8 was our modern 6. The good thing about this change? We have so many more body types and sizes represented today, which is awesome! The bad thing? Ummm… have you ever tried to shop for jeans as a modern day woman?!? You may be a 6 in Gap jeans but a 10 Calvin Kleins (don’t even get me started on odd number sizes..)
So what does this all mean to you? It means DO NOT be hard on yourself, upset or discouraged when you are trying on vintage dresses or pants that are much bigger than your average, modern size. In fact, the safe bet is to shoot for 4 numerical sizes larger for your best fit. That means if you generally wear a size 6 you should be looking for size 10.
Hopefully you learned a little something and feel prepared to go out to thrift stores in Panama City Beach, FL and find some amazing clothing, decor, furniture or whatever. Oh! And don’t forget your reusable bag! 🙂
Steve Clark 