Category: thrifting

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5 Reasons to Embrace the Art of Thrifting

5 Reasons to Embrace the Art of Thrifting

Thrift culture thrives on diversity, intentional consumerism, and community. Finding one-of-a-kind wardrobe items and other hidden treasures is always a thrill, but there is much more to thrifting than savvy shopping. Thrifting has the potential to make a positive impact on your personal finances, your community, and even the planet.

Don’t believe ? Here are just a few of the ways that embracing the art of thrifting can change your world, and the world around you, for good.

Thrifting is Better for the Planet:

On average, American citizens toss over 70 pounds of clothing into the garbage each year. For scale, that’s almost 200 clothing items per person. Only around 15 percent of all used clothing in the United States gets recycled or donated, meaning textiles have one of the lowest recycling rates when compared to other reusable materials.

Because thrift shops in Destin, FL are fueled by upcycling, they play a key role in decreasing textile waste in their communities. Still, thrift stores aren’t just helping the planet by keeping landfills textile-free.

Upcycling also limits the unnecessary production of new clothing items, resulting in smaller water, energy, and electricity footprints for manufacturers.

Your Wallet Will Thank You:

Most of us know that thrift shopping can help people cut spending and improve financial health, not to mention the health of closets. But just how much do avid thrifters truly save?

More than you may think. Even though Americans spend thousands of dollars on clothing each year, most only wear about 20 percent of the items in their closet.

For many, those excess purchases don’t just hog precious closet space, they’re also a major strain on the family budget. Thrift stores allow shoppers to make more intentional buying decisions, and while it may take a bit longer to find the perfect item, a little extra time is a small price to pay for the thousands of dollars it could be saving you.

Thrifted Items Are Higher in Quality:

It’s a simple truth, but it’s one that is often overlooked: the clothing items you find in thrift stores are almost always higher in quality than that of the cheaply-manufactured “off-the-rack” items at major retailers.

Thrift shoppers hunt for fashionable finds that have been upcycled, meaning their quality and durability have already stood the test of time and will only continue to do so.

If you’re tired of buying new clothes only to have them fade, shrink, or wear out after a few washes, thrifting may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

You’ll Diversify Your Wardrobe:

It would be silly to not acknowledge the unlimited style options thrift shoppers are presented with on a regular basis. Whether you’re looking to add a few signature items into your wardrobe, or looking to revitalize and refresh it altogether, thrift stores are the perfect place to start.

Not only will you be presented with a multitude of high-quality and low-cost options for your wish list, you’ll also be presented with options you may not have considered otherwise. Thrift shoppers have endless opportunities to define and redefine their unique sense of style.

Thrifting Supports Your Community:

If you’ve yet to embrace the art of thrifting, you’re not just missing out on affordable fashion. You’re also missing out on the opportunity to make a positive impact in your community.

Thrift stores were designed to help families save, and to bring diverse communities together. Thrift culture is all about giving back, paying it forward, and supporting communities.

So, the next time you add a thrift store treasure to your wardrobe, you can be certain that your purchase is paving the way to a brighter future for someone around you.

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How does thrift stores help people find work opportunities?

How does thrift stores help people find work opportunities?

In America, millions of people face barriers to finding employment. Barriers to work opportunities can include factors such as a lack of training or education, limited access to job search resources, or a lack of career-building skills.

For people with disabilities, finding job opportunities and securing meaningful employment can be particularly difficult.

That’s why, for more than 100 years, thrift stores are committed to putting people to work. Driven to help those in need, mission is to enhance others’ dignity and quality of life by providing employment and job skills training services.

As a member of Goodwill Industries International, they are a part of the world’s largest and most successful network providing employment and training services for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment.

They strive to strengthen local communities, eliminate barriers to opportunity, and help people reach their full potential through learning and the power of work.

At thrift shops, they offer a wide array of services and programs to assist individuals in finding and obtaining employment. They are pleased to provide skills training, career planning, job placement, coaching support, worksite support services and other related services designed to help individuals with disabilities and veterans achieve their vocational goals.

Through work, the individuals served by Goodwill receive more than a paycheck; they gain independence and a sense of personal fulfillment.

Goodwill is only able to continue providing employment services and job training with your ongoing support. The next time you donate your gently-used items to thrift stores in Destin, FL or shop in one of retail stores, consider the powerful impact your good deed.

They thank you for your help in creating jobs, enriching local community, and building brighter futures for individuals and their families.

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5 simple ways to live more sustainably

5 simple ways to live more sustainably

We all know how important it is to reduce, reuse, and recycle to limit our impact on the environment. But it’s easy to forget how everyday actions can make a difference for the planet.

So, what are some simple things to do to make your everyday routine more eco-friendly? We have five ways to live more sustainably today.

Use less water
One of the easiest ways to make a positive, eco-friendly difference around your home is by conserving clean water. Even if you don’t live in an area affected by drought, cutting back on the amount of water you use reduces waste and can lower your monthly utility bill.

Start simple: turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, switch to a water efficient shower head, and water outdoor plants in the morning when you’ll need less water.

Go paperless
Technology today has made it possible to reduce the amount of paper we needlessly waste. Whenever possible, try to go digital instead of printing.

Ask for paperless billing from your bank, use e-tickets for movies and events, and scan documents into your computer instead of printing multiple copies. You’ll reduce excess clutter and save a few trees in the process!

Prevent plastic waste
Millions of pounds of single-use plastic waste are generated each year, but only a small percentage ever gets recycled. Plastic pollution frequently ends up in our planet’s oceans, which in turn harms animals and damages coastlines.

Fortunately, there are easy ways to reduce your plastic use. For example, bring a reusable bag to the grocery store and use reusable straws and water bottles instead of plastic.

Reduce air pollution
Air pollution is harmful to our lungs and the environment. If you live in a city with public transit, try to use it frequently. Or, combine trips and carpool with family or friends to reduce emissions and save money on gas. When possible, walk or bike to nearby destinations to avoid making unnecessary car trips.

Give a new life to used items
Do you have clothes and household goods that you no longer want, use, or need? Don’t throw them away – donate them! When you throw away reusable items such as clothing, they end up sitting in landfills where they take a long time to break down.

Not only is this bad for the environment, but there are many people who can use these items, even if you don’t want them anymore. The next time you clean out your closet or garage, ditch the dumpster and donate your gently used items to your local thrift shops in Destin, FL where they’ll be given a new life and a new purpose.

It’s never too early or too late to begin living more sustainably, and donating to thrift shop is a great place to start. 

By donating to thrift shops, not only are you committing to environmental sustainability, but you’re also making a greater difference in your community! Your gently-used items will be sold at affordable prices to neighbors who can use them.

Then, the proceeds from the sale of your goods help fund Goodwill’s job training and employment services for individuals with disabilities and local veterans.

It all adds up to a positive impact for you, the planet, and your community! Find a retail store or attended donation center near you to make a donation today.

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Thrift Stores thrifting

4 thrifty fall finds from thrift stores

4 Thrifty Fall Finds From Goodwill - Goodwill Cincinnati
4 thrifty fall finds from thrift stores

Autumn is officially here, and there’s no better way to kick off the season than by updating your wardrobe and decorating your home for fall. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, now is the perfect time to try out some new fall trends.

Here are some of my favorite thrifty fall finds you can look for on your next shopping trip to the thrift store in Destin, FL:

Faux leather jackets

No fall wardrobe is complete without a stylish faux leather jacket. Along with the classic black “biker” jacket, some top trends for fall include beige, red, and white faux leather jackets.

You can dress up your jacket by wearing it over a fall dress with tights and boots, or dress it down with a simple tee shirt and jeans. The outfit possibilities are endless, plus you’ll stay warm all day while looking effortlessly cool.

Because leather jackets are so timeless, you can often find them at your local store for far less than department store prices.

All things plaid

In 2018, we’ve seen a return of the most iconic looks from the 1990’s, including plaid. From matching plaid patterned suit sets to plaid jackets, blouses, scarves, and handbags, there’s no shortage of ways to wear this fall trend. You can even incorporate the stylish print in your home décor with plaid tablecloths, bedding, curtains, and rugs.

Winter-ready boots

With wintery weather on its way, you’ll need a great pair of boots (or two!) to ensure you’re prepared for rain and snow. Some of the top footwear trends of this fall are animal print booties, low cut cowboy boots, and 80’s inspired kitten heels.

Elegant jewel tones

Rich, luxurious colors inspired by jewels are another emerging fall trend that you can incorporate into your wardrobe or home! Look for clothing and accessories in emerald, navy, sapphire, ruby, fuschia, and topaz to add a pop of color to any outfit.

Jewel tones are also perfect for decorating your living space and bringing some warmth into your home. For a vibrant Thanksgiving centerpiece idea, look for clear or colored glass vases that you can fill with jewel-toned flowers such as roses, chrysanthemums, or black-eyed Susans.

When you shop at thrift stores, you’ll get so much more than a great deal. You’ll also get the satisfaction of your purchase makes a difference for people facing barriers to employment.

At stores, the proceeds from the sale of donated goods help to fund job placement services and programs for individuals with disabilities and our nation’s veterans.

You can feel great knowing that the dollars you spent at thrift stores are reinvested back into your community to change lives and strengthen the local economy!

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HOW TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE WARDROBE

Five Ways to a Sustainable Wardrobe - Planet Aid, Inc.
HOW TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE WARDROBE

One of the biggest trends this year was sustainability. From the looks of it, the popularity of it is not going anywhere. A recent survey found that two-thirds of Americans take into account sustainability when making a purchase. 

If you are part of that two-thirds, you are probably looking for ways to be more sustainable. Start living sustainably by building a sustainable wardrobe. The fashion choices you make impact the environment.

What is sustainability? 

Sustainability is meeting the demands for right now without limiting the resources for future generations. This means making choices that do not threaten the environment and are ethical for people. 

Why is sustainability important? 

Making more sustainable choices is important to protect the planet. Currently, the fashion industry is the second largest polluting industry, right after the oil industry.

It is estimated that each year about 85 percent of textiles that are produced end up in landfills. 

When producing clothes, these factories dump untreated toxic waste into rivers and lakes. These toxic chemicals cause harm to the aquatic environment.

Not only do these factories pollute water, but they also consume large amounts of water. In 2015, it was estimated that the fashion industry consumed 79 billion cubic meters of water. 

HOW TO BUILD A SUSTAINABLE WARDROBE

Upcycle your old clothing  

One misconception that many people have is that you need to get rid of your existing clothes and buy new sustainable garments. However, this is not the case. You do not need to throw all your current clothes away to be sustainable.  

If you have a pair of jeans or a dress that you no longer wear, upcycle it. You can make the jeans into shorts or turn it into a purse. Dye your dress to make it look fresh. Or, you can transform that dress into a skirt. The possibilities are endless. 

Shop second hand 

If you need a new piece of clothing, shop second hand. Purchasing clothes second-hand helps reduce the number of clothes produced that pollute the environment. This allows clothing to be recycled and reused throughout a timespan. 

The best thrift shops in Lebanon, TN get new items daily to choose from. They carry your favorite brands at affordable prices. It also gives you a chance to discover new styles and trends. If any item does not fit, there is always the chance to alter it. 

Donate used clothing

As stated above, thrift stores supply you with the best selection of secondhand clothing. When it comes to downsizing your wardrobe, donate your clothes. Textile waste is a growing problem. Donating to your local thrift stores helps those clothes from ending up in landfills for many years. 

In addition to helping save the environment, these stores support local nonprofit organizations. For example, at Thrift World, we are partnered with local nonprofits and charitable organizations. They help us collect clothing and in return, we give them money for those donations. 

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THE HISTORY OF THRIFT STORES

Pick your next outfit from these Instagram Thrift Stores of India - Local Samosa
THE HISTORY OF THRIFT STORES

Clothes have existed for as long as humans can remember. Back in the day, clothing was hand made and worn until it was no longer wearable.

 If a pair of pants got a hole, they were patched and worn again. Clothing was not tossed out as fast as it is today.  Studies have found that the average American throws out 82 pounds of textile waste every year. In the United States, that would be 11 million tons of textile waste produced every year. 

Have you ever wondered about the history of thrift stores and how they became so popular? Before you start searching thrift near me on your phone, our team wants to share how thrift stores started. 

WHAT IS A THRIFT STORE? 

Thrift stores in Lebanon, TN are typically shops that raise money for charities and nonprofit organizations. These kinds of stores depend on donations from people around their communities. People can make  donations at drop-off locations around a city.

 Some thrift stores, like Thrift World, also provide at-home pick-up. They usually accept donations like clothing, furniture, shoes, toys, electronics, home decor, etc. 

People tend to believe that resale shops and thrift stores are the same things. However, they are different. Resale shops are stores that sell merchandise that has been bought from individuals and resold. As stated above, thrift stores receive their merchandise from donors. 

HISTORY OF THRIFT STORES

Back in the day, clothing was not as disposable because it was expensive. Things began to change with the start of the Industrial Revolution. Clothing began to be produced in masses and at affordable prices. People would buy new clothes more often and tossed their old clothing. 

Also, city populations began to grow during this time. Living spaces were getting smaller, thus it caused more people to toss things out. However, people still had a stigma that wearing someone else’s clothes was a sign of a lack of money. 

Things began to change when Christian ministries started to collect items to sell to try to fund programs. It also helped that Americans during this time started to give more to charities. Throughout the years, thrift stores began to pop up, hire disabled people and even offer service operations. 

THRIFT STORES TODAY

In today’s age, thrifting has not changed and continues to rise in popularity. People still continue to donate their unused goods to local thrift stores to help nonprofit organizations, communities and even help save the planet. 

Today’s generations, like Gen Z and Millennials, are interested in helping the environment and reducing waste. Studies have found that 77 percent of Millennials prefer to buy clothing that helps the environment. 

Technology is also transforming the thrifting industry. Thrift stores are now able to sell their products to online shops and even through social media like Facebook. This gives thrifting customers the convenience of shopping wherever and getting it delivered to their doorstep. 

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THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE DONATING TO A THRIFT STORE

Mainers giving staggering amounts of 'trash' to donation sites and thrift stores
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE DONATING TO A THRIFT STORE

Before putting all your thrift donation items in the back of your car’s trunk, there are few things you need to know.

Whether you are decluttering for your move or spring cleaning your home, you should consider donating your unwanted items to a thrift store. They will take most of your clothing, home and furniture donations. 

HOW YOUR ITEM DONATIONS HELP THE COMMUNITY

Thrift store in Lebanon, TN collect item donations in partnership with local charities and nonprofits. These organizations collect donations for us, and in return, we give them money. This money helps fund their many programs. 

TIPS FOR MAKING DONATIONS TO A THRIFT STORE 

Think about the condition of the items

Before you put an item into the donation box, think about its condition. One good rule of thumb when sorting donations is to consider if someone would want it. Would you give that item to someone you know?

If you said no, then it is probably a good idea to just recycle it. Some items that you should avoid donating to thrift stores are items that have stains, rips, tears, mold or missing pieces. Also, do not donate items that have been recalled or marked as unsafe. 

Check to see what items thrift stores accept

Now that you have sorted out your best items, it is time to check to see which items your thrift store accepts.

Not all thrift stores are the same. Some thrift stores only accept clothing, home decor, furniture, appliances or toys. To help your sorting process, here is a list of items that Thrift World currently accepts: 

  • All kinds of clothing
  • Shoes and accessories 
  • Bedding
  • Home decor 
  • Small appliances 
  • Kitchenware 
  • Sporting goods 
  • Books, CDs, VHS tapes and records
  • Toys
  • Electronics 
  • Small furniture that is in good condition
  • Baby clothing and accessories
  • Jewelry
  • Hardware tools 
  • Non-reclining chairs 
  • Small TV chairs
  • Tables/Chairs 

Box and bag items 

Next, it is time to pack your thrift donation items. To help make everyone’s life a little easier, thrift stores do ask you to pack items before donating them. The best way to pack items is in plastic bags or boxes. 

By properly packing them, you help avoid items going missing, getting stained or breaking. If items are breakable, try to wrap them in newspaper or bubble wrap. You do not need to go out and buy these materials. Reuse those packing materials that came with all your online packages. 

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THE GUIDE TO THRIFTING PYREX

Op Shop Finds: Vintage Pyrex | This Mum Rocks
THE GUIDE TO THRIFTING PYREX

From your great grandmother to your mother, many generations you know might have owned a piece of Pyrex. This colorful glass kitchenware has been a staple piece in American households for over a century. Many people love it for its durability, while others love it for its colorful designs. 

There are Pyrex collectors who are in search of vintage and collectible Pyrex pieces.

THE HISTORY OF PYREX

Pyrex was first created in Corning, N.Y. in 1908. However, it did not look like the modern pieces look. Pyrex was first created at Corning Glass Works, where thermally resistant glasses were made for single lanterns. One employee named Jesse Littleton brought a sawed-off battery jar home to his wife, who used it to bake a cake.

Corning soon figured out their glass could benefit more than the industrial world but also kitchens. In 1915, the company started to sell Pyrex bakeware to many housewives. What made Pyrex so successful was that it was durable, resisted temperature changes and didn’t discolor. 

WHY SHOULD YOU THRIFT PYREX?

Pyrex gained popularity because of its borosilicate glass that gave it durability and longevity. However, it then switched to using a soda-lime glass. This made the value of vintage Pyrex skyrocket. Now some Pyrex pieces are selling as much as $3,000. 

When looking for Pyrex at the thrift shops in Destin, FL, try to find Pyrex from the 1915s to late 1970s. Look for pieces that are desirable and in great condition. Here is a list of Pyrex patterns that are worth some good money.

FIVE VALUABLE PYREX PATTERNS TO THRIFT 

The Pink Daisy pattern 

The Pink Daisy Pyrex pattern was produced from 1956 to 1963. This Pyrex pattern and the Snowflake was the first to be printed on a solid color. Its clear lids made it one of the best selling patterns. Now it is a favorite collectible piece for Pyrex junkies. 

The Snowflake pattern

As stated above, the Snowflake Pyrex pattern is also one of the first Pyrex printed on a solid color. These pieces are turquoise colored and with snowflakes. This pattern is one of the longest-running patterns that ran from 1956 to 1967. 

Rainbow stripes

The Rainbow Stripes Pyrex was manufactured from 1965 to 1967. There were four bowls, but only three were sold together. The set includes pink, sandalwood and blue. The yellow bowl was sold separately. 

Gooseberry pattern

This Pyrex pattern was one of the first four printed patterns to be released on the opal Pyrex. It was manufactured from 1957 to 1966. This pattern came in different colors, including pink on white, white on pink, black on white and black on yellow. 

Butterprint pattern

The Butterprint Pyrex was manufactured from 1957 to 1968. This pattern features an Amish couple, roosters and corn. It is considered one of the earliest prints of Pyrex. The distinctive design makes it one of the most recognizable Pyrex prints. 

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FIVE THRIFT STORE FINDS THAT ARE VALUABLE

Shopping Can Make You Famous - The New York Times
FIVE THRIFT STORE FINDS THAT ARE VALUABLE

Thrifting is a sustainable and budget-friendly way to shop. What many people do not know is that your thrifting addiction at the thrift stores in Destin, FL may also earn you extra cash. 

Hundreds of items are donated to thrift stores every day. Sometimes these unwanted items turn out to be valuable ones.

THRIFT STORE FINDS WORTH MONEY

Pyrex 

When you are walking down the dishware aisle at your local thrift store, look out for Pyrex. This is a brand of dishware that is prized by many. People love Pyrex because of its durability and longevity. 

The most valuable kind of Pyrex is the vintage ones. The vintage pieces are made of borosilicate glass, not soda-lime glass. Some vintage pieces of Pyrex can sell for as much as $300. For the most valuable pieces, look for Pyrex dishware that was made from 1915 to the late 1970s. 

Trading cards 

Did you know that those trading cards you collected as a kid may be worth thousands of dollars? You heard that right. Some trading cards, like Pokemon and baseball cards, are selling for high prices because of how rare they are. 

Le Creuset 

Another valuable kind of dishware that you can find in thrift stores is Le Creuset. This kind of dishware is considered to be valuable because of its quality. It is made from high-quality enamel, and it does not chip or age over time. 

If you find this kind of dishware in your thrift store, you hit the lottery. The average price of a new 5.5 quart Le Creuset oven costs $370. You can check out your favorite thrift store and find one for half the price. 

First-edition books 

If you are a book collector, you might want to give your retail bookstore a break and head to a thrift store. You will be surprised to know that you can find books that are worth a pretty penny and add value to your book collection.

For example, a first edition Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone sold for more than $80,000. When thrifting for valuable books, look for books that are the first edition. Then, check out how many copies were published. 

Film cameras

A picture is worth a thousand words, and some vintage cameras are worth hundreds of dollars. On your next thrifting trip, check out the selection of film cameras. Some film cameras are worth hundreds if not thousands of dollars. 

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Three Reasons Why Thrifting is the Best Way to Shop

Thrift shopping is an environmental and ethical trap
Three Reasons Why Thrifting is the Best Way to Shop

What if you could find the nicest brands for shockingly low prices in a way that not only benefits you, but your entire community? Well guess what, you can. Thrifting is the best way to shop as it is sustainable, cheap and gives back to your community.

One way thrifting is the best, is through its sustainability. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing per year, this means that around 26 billion pounds of clothing ends up in landfills.

One can dramatically reduce this number through the recycling and reusing of clothing, also known as thrifting. By purchasing clothing at second-hand shops, people are able to significantly reduce their carbon footprint, helping both themselves and the environment.

When someone recycles their clothing, they are limiting the amount of natural resources it takes to create new fabric, make the clothing and then ship it hundreds of miles to the sellers.

They not only gain a stylish clothing option, but keep the item out of landfill circulation. Even when the clothing piece is no longer your style, the item can be donated to another eco-friendly shopper. As well as being kind to the environment, thrifting is also kind to our wallets. 

Most thrift shops in Santa Rosa Beach, FL offer extremely low prices, especially in comparison to name brand or newer pieces of clothing. Thrifting is a great way to find one’s favorite brands for a fraction of the price, while still getting a great quality product.

According to Carolyn Schneider, author of The Ultimate Consignment & Thrift Store Guide, thrift stores usually markdown products by about 50%-80% percent, and sometimes even sell bundles, giving certain clothing items away for free.

Not only will one have a stylish new outfit, but will have a newfound confidence in their bargain hunting skills. Along with being kind to one’s wallet, most thrift stores are good for the community as well. 

Most thrift shops not only filter in donations but give them out as well. According to goodwill.com, Goodwill donates nearly $1 million dollars a year of free merchandise to people in need and other independent organizations.

In 2018, Goodwill was given an A-plus rating in community service, which is the highest in the country for nonprofit organizations. Thrifting also gives money to local shops which filters the money right back into one’s community.

Thrifting also helps one know their clothes a bit better, most of them being locally sourced, rather than being shipped from halfway across the country. 

All in all, thrifting is one of the best ways to shop. It allows you to find the perfect pieces of clothing in a cheap, eco-friendly and generous way.

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