My Top Five Thrift Shopping Tips

 

 

The first time I went thrifting (or op shopping, as it's known in Australia) was back in the nineties as a high schooler, with some of the money I made as a checkout chick (aka working the cash register at the local supermarket). My mother was horrified when I brought home what she considered dirty junk! I've been an avid thrifter ever since. I've made some great finds, such as a Georg Jensen candelabra, Murano glass, Selangor pewter, lots of crisp linen shirts and dresses, a Stella McCartney frock, and beautiful coats, dresses and Bunnykins for my daughter.

Thrifting's popularity has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, and the thrift stores have certainly cottoned on by raising prices, and moving items they deem valuable online. There are still bargains and deals to be had, if you know where to look, and make a bit of an effort! Here are my top five tips that I've gleaned from years of op shopping. I hope you find these helpful if you are new to the world of thrifting.

1. Don't go in with a preconceived idea of what you are going to find, or try to stick to a shopping list. There's really no telling what kind of inventory you may find from day to day, as thrift stores are accepting new donations all the time. It's great to have a wishlist of items you might need or want, but be open to happenstance - it's likely that you will chance upon something that jumps out at you, and if you leave it behind to have a think about, it will likely be gone by the time you come back. 
2. Check out the entire store - not just the section you are interested in (such as womenswear, books etc). Things get miscategorised, customers move things around, you might happen upon something you can wear or repurpose. Also, I often love to check out the menswear section, as mens clothing tends to be made in natural fibres like cotton or wool, more often than womenswear, sad but true. 
3. Ignore sizing! - know your measurements (and those of your kids), and bring a tape measure with you. Vanity sizing is a thing. Vintage sizing runs smaller than modern sizing. Things shrink in the wash. Items get taken in and altered. Size is just a number - don't let it ruin your day!
4. Learn about dressmaking and tailoring basics - Even if you aren't handy with a sewing machine. There are lots of great, free resources out there, I'd recommend starting on YouTube. Turn things inside out and look at the stitching. Check for damage, missing buttons etc. Learn to identify fabrics through touch. Remember that brand doesn't necessarily equal quality.
   
5. Come back often! - This is the most important tip. New stock is arriving all the time, and there's no telling what it might be. If you run your errands in a certain place, and there's a thrift shop nearby, add it to your route. Heading to a different part of town? Google thrift shops / op shops in the area and check them out!

Got anymore tips? Share them in the comments below!