Image by Junko Nakase
Everyone today is thrifting. Well, maybe not everyone yet. This post is for the uninitiated, read on and jump into the world of thrifting. Thrifting is chic and sustainable. It is a way to create your own style and help sustain our environment. So you need to know the rules, tips, and tricks for a successful thrifting experience.
Let’s begin with the rules
- Make a plan before you go shopping
- Search thrift store websites and blogs
- Tailor your thrift store finds
- Don’t buy it just because it’s a “good brand”
- Save time by scanning the racks for eye catching pieces
- Shop with cash to avoid impulse buys
- Before you buy, ask yourself
- Is it of good quality?
- Would you buy it at full price?
- How long will you wear it?
Tricks and Tips
1. Check the ‘go-back’ rack
If you are overwhelmed when you walk through the door head for the ‘go-back’ rack, or the clothing racks outside the dressing room door if they have one. These are the items other people were interested in.
2. Where to thrift matters
Check out the blogs listed at the end which provide tips on thrifting, look up shops in your area like Savers, an international secondhand chain; Goodwill; Salvation Army Thrift Store; vintage stores, or your local thrift stores can have great selections depending on where you are located. One of our favorites in The Good Sheperd in Tonganoxie. There are great stores in Lawrence too. Consider Social Service League of Lawrence, KS, and Give it. Get it Inc.
3. Avoid fast fashion
These are castoffs from chain stores that are of poor quality and don’t hold up. Pay attention to the material. Check the labels for natural fibers. Fabrics marked 100 percent silk, cotton or linen are generally of higher quality. Many fast-fashions are made with a blend or a synthetic material like polyester. Choose the material that fits your lifestyle.
4. Look for the denim section
Denim is always in style, vintage or new. Look for brands like Levi, Wrangler, and Lee. Always look for the orange Levi’s tab. This is stitched into the seam of the right back pocket. It proves the jeans were made between the ’60s and ‘90s and are high quality.
5. Look for quality leather goods, unless you are a vegan, and your ethics don’t allow you to purchase leather products. This caveat should be incorporated wherever leather is mentioned.
6. Find cool T-shirts and sweatshirts.
Interview Attire
“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
-Author unknown
Dressing for success, ensures you are putting your best foot forward and making a good impression on potential employers. There are three levels of professional dress: Business professional, business casual, and smart casual. Always ensure that clothing is clean pressed and well fitted.
Business Professional:
This style is most appropriate for interviews, career fairs, and more formal events. It is recommended to opt for darker, more traditional colors such as black or gray.
- Jackets and blazers with matching pants or skirt
- A button-up collared shirt and tie combination
- A tailored conservative shirt or blouse
Business Casual:
This look may be appropriate for interviews at companies that have a relaxed dress code or a networking event.
- Jackets or blazers
- Outfit-enhancing jewelry – accessories that complement your clothing rather than distract from it
- Dress pants
- Dress shirts
- Skirts
- Tailored sweaters
- Ties (optional)
- Matching leather accessories
- Leather pull-on shoes or boots
Smart casual
Smart casual is the most relaxed professional attire. It doesn’t mean anything goes.
- Clothing items to avoid when dressing smart casual:
- Athletic wear
- Shorts
- Miniskirts
- Sundresses
- Sweatshirts
- T-shirts
- Sneakers
- Open-toed sandals
Popular Thrifting Blogs
- Queen of Fifty Cents. #1
- My Thrift Store Addiction. #2
- TREATURES IN THRIFTING LAND #3
- Dina’s Days. #4
- The Outfit Repeater
- Thrifty and Chic
