How to be successful at thrifting

I love to thrift, it is a great stress reduction. Going into a thrift store to dig and find an incredible bargain takes a certain skill set. Don't get me wrong, anyone can do it. But everyone will not do it. I don't know how many times, I heard people say: Every time that I go thirfting I can’t find anything. That's ludicrous to me! But I use to say the same thing. I didn’t really know how to shop at a thrift store and make out well. I would buy random things that I honestly didn’t need, just to say I found a bargain.

But here's what you need to know. Here is what I didn’t know. Go in with a positive attitude. Most people just see junk. If you have this mind set, it's likely you will not find anything. Focus on one or two things that you are looking for.

This red vintage jacket for instance. I have had this jacket for about 6 years now. The day that I bought it from the thrift store, I was only looking for jackets and coats. I curtailed my shopping to those specific items. This helped me to focus only on those items. I think I made out pretty good. The jacket cost only $19.00 dollars and it is all leather. I get so many compliments when I wear it. It took time and skill to go in and look for multiple finds, without just buying things that I really don’t need.

Here are 5 tips for being more successful at thrift shopping.

1. Set a budget, this will help you focus on just a few items. Don’t go over your budget.

Stick to it, even if you only buy 1 item.

2. Go thrift shopping on a sale or discount day. Most thrift shops have sales and offer up to 50% off certain items. Find out what days they have those sales, and go.

3. Look at everything. Example: If you are there to look for dresses. Take your time and look through every single dress. This was a trick that my mother in-law taught me. She was a thrifting queen, and I learned so much from her. You will be surprised at what is hiding on the dress rack, or any rack. Just taking your time and looking and examine each piece.

4. Get there early. The best finds are put out on the floor when they first open. If you go on a discount day, and when the store first opens. You are likely to make out like a bandit.

5. Inspect everything, before you purchase. Most thrift stores have a no return policy. Look for holes, missing pieces and stains. This will take time and can be frustrating, but the more you do it, the easier it is to do. Find thrift stores that will allow you to try on clothes. This will save you money if you can’t fit the clothes you try on, or you don’t like the way it looks on you.

So the next time you decide to thrift, take these tips and they will help you become more successful at thrifting. You will save money, and find some amazing items. Don’t forget to have fun. Happy thrifting!!