Papa, Don't Preach -Thrifting-

Lets talk thrift stores. There are a few things it's important to keep in mind when you plan your initial attack - most of these go unsaid, but, I'm saying them. Cause that's how I roll. Word up.

I'm hip. 

Moving on... 

These are some of the thrifting amigas.

This, obviously is not at a thrift store. Good observation. But these are the people I hit up when I need thrifting buddies. We have fun. 

Here they are again. 

and again, plus some more fun peeps > > >

     Sorry - getting distracted. Anyway, these are some of the things we've learned through trial and error thrifting endeavors with one another - they might be useful for first-time thrifters. If you're a savvy thrifter then read through and let me know if you have any more tips to add in the comments! 

- Pick your store 

This often goes hand in hand with picking quality items. You will make finding higher-quality items much easier on yourself if you look for thrift stores in nicer areas. Makes sense, right? This isn't to say that you can't find great buys in less glitzy areas - but your odds aren't as good. This whole process of finding the store you want to shop is trial and error because nicer areas sometimes just equal higher prices, not higher quality. Just keep it in mind... 

We have been known to map out 4 or 5 thrift stores in a day with circles and arrows diagramming where we are most likely to get the best booty. Booty...as in merchandise...not...never mind. 

- Expectations... Don't expect to be able to peruse aisles or racks divided up by sizes, this can be daunting but don't lose heart... 

- Ask for discounts! "But Rae...honey, maybe you somehow missed the price tag because it's so teensy. Obviously it's already discounted...like...a lot...." I'm totally tracking with you here, but if there's something wrong with what you find whether it's clothing or furniture - not enough to dissuade you from buying it, do yourself a favor and ask for a discount. The worse thing they can do is tell you no. 

- Don't settle...I know this may seem to totally contradict the previous suggestion, but work with me here. If you find something and notice right off that it's worn out, faded and ratty but you've been looking for something just like it for a while - I would tell you to wait. Nine times out of ten you will come across something in better condition that gets the job done within a week or two if you look for it. Your call, but remember that the goal is not to look like you're wearing someone else's worn out clothes.
- Avoid thrift store underwear.

Look, they wouldn't sell it if people didn't buy it, so I feel like it's my duty to get that out there. 

Don't. Do it. If you can't buy yourself a new pair of panties and have moral qualms about going commando, send me a message - I'll hook you up with some undies.
- Own it! Thrifting is not or everyone. Some people think it's gross, some people think it's awesome. That tends to be hit or miss but your attitude about it can go a long way. Start with something small like a belt, or a piece of jewelry and if it works for you, that's great. If, on the other hand you find that you have issues with saving tons of money, I'm afraid you're beyond any help I can offer.

  Leave Some Love,

Rae