Since some of us seem to have awesome luck at thrift stores and others not so much, I thought the lucky ones could share their strategies and tips . It's a good thing we all don't live near each other - nobody has to worry about giving away their trade secrets to the competition !
Mine are:
Always look through all the sizes. Store employees often put things back in the wrong place. Also, vintage items are marked with a different sizing system (ie a vintage size 10 dress is really more like a modern 4), so looking in other sizes could produce an otherwise overlooked gem.
Don't forget to check the mens and kids sections too - mens can occasionally turn up a slouchy sweater vest or a cool belt, and kids can be good for sweaters and coats too.
Always wear (or bring) socks to try on shoes with. I keep a pair of thin trouser socks in my purse for this purpose.
Take a quick spin through every section, even if you're not looking for anything specific. You never know when a designer item or something with the tags still on will pop up.
Your turn!
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To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment ~ {Ralph Waldo Emerson}
Never forget the accessories. IMO, these are the best thrift store buys because they add your unique stamp on more mainstream outfits. Plus it's a lot easier to sift throught purses, scarves, etc. than racks of clothing if you're not in the mood or don't have a ton of time. I always duck in thrift stores and check out the purses when I only have a second - easy and fast.
-if you can, go often. -good times to go: i know most people have 9-5 jobs here, but even on a day off or something, go during daytime weekdays. i try to wait until the store has been open for an hour or two so that new items are put out. friday nights are good times to go to, because then you beat the saturday crowd. if you are not concerned about clothing being half-off or not, go the day before senior day. most things are still full-price, but clothes/etc won't be picked over by seniors. (at my local thrifts, only seniors get discounts on that day) -on that note, see if you can go early on senior day and drag your mom or someone else who can get the discount. (i would, but my mom lives an hour from me) -look for off-season items. in the summer i look for sweaters, coats, etc winter gear because most people are only buying for the current season. -get to know the cashiers/etc! just like a boutique, thrift workers you are chummy with might do favors! ie this cute guy who used to work at a thrift i went to would discount my clothing because i flirted with him. (shh!)