I was trying to portray being stressed out - I think I hit somewhere between confusion and constipation 
One of the biggest complaints I hear from friends and family is trying to shop in discount or thrift stores. Not only is most of the merchandise horribly unorganized, but I think people thrive on seeing styled mannequins to help them pick out clothes. So today I wanted to give you some tips on how to shop in these cluttered messes of stores – those prized finds at ridiculously reduced prices are way worth it. (These tips can also apply to any type of retail clothing shop as well).
1. Go in with a mission
Be prepared before you head to the store. Figure out what pieces you desperately need, what one’ you desperately want, and what you already have enough of (if you’re like me, you have a strong inclination to get the same thing over and over – cardigans anyone? – by the time you reach 15 you know you have an addiction). Make a list and stick to it – this will help you from getting overwhelmed in a sea of clothes. Start with what you need, and work your way down. Make it fun by creating a layout on Microsoft Word that you can print and fill in for each trip.
2. Picture the outfit you want to put together, and create it!
Most of the time these type of stores have no mannequins that are already styled that you can take inspiration from. Usually there are tons of random pieces of clothes that are separated by size, and that’s about it. In this case, go in with a few outfits that you would like to put together in mind. For example, have a great pair of jeans that you want to build an ensemble around? Plan to look for appropriate length tops and a few accessories.
3. Know your body shape
Maybe you just want to shop for the sake of shopping – you have no particular needs, but just want to find something cute. By understanding your body shape and what looks best on you, you can narrow down what to spend time looking at and what to pass by. This is a huge tip – KNOW WHEN TO BYPASS! Don’t get something for the sake of it being cheap; only purchase what actually looks good ON and if you are in love with it (trust me, this would have saved me so much money). I promise I will put together a series soon that focuses on each body type to help you out here. For now you can look at my series on finding jeans for your figure here and here.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Exactly what it sounds like, talk to the store’s staff. Whether you have a particular item you’re looking for or you’d just like some knowledge on the store’s layout, these are the people to talk to. Many times the people who work at thrift stores spend a lot of time there and know the merchandise like the back of their hand! They also tend to be some of the most interesting people you will ever talk to.
5. Finally, be patient.
Sometimes sifting through a bunch of crap will take time and energy, but it usually is worth it. Go in with the attitude that you may not find what you are looking for this time around, and that you might need to try on a ton of stuff before you find something you love. This might sound silly, but I always make sure to bring a water bottle and a granola bar when I go shopping to keep my energy up.
These are just some basic tips that while sound simple, are many times overlooked by shoppers. Lists for me are key – whether it’s grocery, makeup, or clothes shopping, I make sure I know what I want. I hope this helps, and I promise to work on shopping for your body shape asap!
Got any tips on thrifting/discount store shopping? Where are some of your favorite places to thrift? Please share!
Some stores to check out:
~Maria
shauna
1 year ago
Great post! I often find myself getting impatient with thrifting and feel like I am missing out. I think I want to try it locally first – although I typically have the worst luck.
admin Reply:
February 25th, 2010 at 11:47 am
I feel ya – some days I have an amazing time and find a ton of stuff, other days, nothing. The great thing about thrift stores is they get new stuff all the time!
Leah H.
1 year ago
I’ve been thrifting since I could walk. My mom would drag me around with her, she is a very thrifty lady. She just found her mother of the bride dress at a ridiculous price
Anyways, she taught me all she knows. For instance, when you buy something, get rid of something else that you don’t wear anymore. That way you won’t be accumulating as much stuff. Also, don’t be afraid to haggle! Sometimes, especially antique stores, you can get what you want for a better price if you’re willing to negotiate.
I think your list idea is great! I will have to start using that. Usually I just have a general idea in my head of what I need/want. It’s always fun when you actually find what you are looking for!
admin Reply:
February 25th, 2010 at 11:48 am
Those are such great tips – I tend to keep stuff I don’t even like all that much for years. I need to try haggling too – esp. in pawn shops (have you ever watched that show?).
Sara
1 year ago
Maria, excellent post! And btw, that link from polyvore with the cute skirt and cardigan…I’m seriously thinking about buying that outfit and the skirt is just beautiful (the shape is very cool too). The Swarovski crystal necklace is something that I forwarded over to my boyfriend *hint. haha.
admin Reply:
February 25th, 2010 at 11:49 am
Isn’t it the cutest?! Hahaha – hint dropping is my specialty
!
elana
1 year ago
I had to thrift growing up… It took so much time and patience to find anything nice. Brands were incredibly important as a teenager. So i learned to window shop at the big stores where they had the high end price of what I wanted. I looked at and touched the fabric and quality I liked.
Then as soon as I get to the thrift store I immediately look only for the quality, color, texture of fabric I want. After knowing what I wanted in the stores, I could rule out all the junky stuff. I almost always pick the higher end stuff this way. And it is faster because I can rule out ahead of time what I do not want. There is so much at a thrift store… It is a must to have a goal in mind before going.
Great Post Maria!