Welcome, glad to see ya back!!

For this next article let’s focus on the important stuff of thrifting: types of thrift stores, budgeting, and ending with some tips.

There are levels to thrifting. I'm talking price points, organization, and even cleanliness. Yup, that's right, thrifting can get even dirtier than what it already is. *sidenote: not every thrift store is dirty.

I'm going to break down the levels from the dirtiest yet cheapest to the holy grail of vintage luxury:

1. The Bins: The Goodwill/Salvation Army Outlets

Bins of secondhand clothing, toys, electronics, housewares, books – you name it – at incredibly discounted prices where items are sold by the pound.

2. Local Thrift

A shop that sells secondhand articles, especially clothes, and is often run for charitable purposes.

3. Chain Thrifts

Similar to local thrift, but are widespread throughout different states. Example: Buffalo Exchange, Crossroads, Beacons Closet, etc.

4. Consignment Shops

A store that sells secondhand items, typically clothing and accessories, on behalf of the original owner. The owner usually receives a percentage of the selling price.

Now let’s break down a budget for your next thrifting excursion. If you’re keeping it local, which is what I mostly do, here's a financial budget plan to get you started:

FIRST,

1. Give back to the Lord 

2. Pay those bills. You can't be looking secondhand fly with your lights off. No No.

3. Save. Save. Save.

4. Ok, now take $20, and go get those thrift fits. Aaayyyeee. Well make it $30, it adds up faster than you think.

Before I check-out here are "Mel's 20 thrift tips":

Before Thrifting

• Go early in the morning and set a few hours to the side to shop. 2-3 hours preferably.

• Best time to thrift is around the start of a new season. People tend to declutter and donate their clothing

• Dress simply. Ladies, wear a t-shirt and leggings. Some thrifts don't have dressing rooms.

• Bring headphones.

• Have a charged phone. You may need to reference back to those Pinterest photos every now and again.

• Bring your own bag. $0.07 each time adds up to a new shirt. (not all states charge a bag fee)

• Bring wet wipes and gloves if you decide to go to the Goodwill/Salvation Outlets. It's nasty in there.

• Know your stores

  • When they have deals.

  • What the stores are best known for

During Thrifting

• Start shopping in your go-to section (ex. the men's section is my go-to), so you can spend the most time there without feeling rushed or even tired.

• Don’t leave your personal stuff unattended in your shopping cart. *Wags finger*

• When searching for vintage clothing don't always rely on the size on the tag. Sizes vary from brand to brand and some Vintage items run small. If it looks like it fits try it on if you can, of course.

• Check the condition of each item for any damages.

• Be kind to the employees and clean up your mess.

• DON'T IMPULSE SHOP! YOU WON'T WEAR IT, I PROMISE.

After Thrifting and some extras

• Wash your clothing ALL OF THEM.

• Be prepared to shop at different thrift stores multiple times a week to get full outfits.

• Explore different thrifts from state to state.

• Be Creative and have a Ball!!!!!

All Done. Check ya next article. Kisses.