I love to thrift! 

It’s important to have goals when shopping at thrift stores; this is one of my thrifting life lessons because I love to shop but also love when I don’t overbuy.

I love the hunt and if you thrift you do to! Here are a few of my thrift store forever tips.

Rule #1
Only go when you need something, IE decorating or weight loss

Rule #2
Check your wardrobe before you go. You won’t overbuy if you see it in your closet. And who doesn't love a good closet shopping trip?

Rule #3
Trend shop at the thrift store. A lot of cool things that you see coming back are already there so do your trend shopping at 70% to 90% off the retail prices

Rule #4
You can always Tailor (if accessible)  Let’s say you find a great pair of pants or an awesome jacket but it’s slightly too big. You can always tailor it, and because you paid so cheap you can get it professionally done while still staying in budget.

Speaking of budgets!

Rule #5
Set budget goals
This will help with over buying. To help me get the most bang for my buck I usually only go on half off days and pay attention to the deals available. This will vary from store to store.  For example, some stores have specific  color ticket sales or seasonal sales to help with turning the store over for the next season. Take advantage of seasonal shifts by looking for a coat in the summer when they're probably trying to move inventory and are more likely to mark things down.

Rule #6
Have a goal
This, my friend, will help with saving money no matter where you’re shopping. It’s just a smart practice to have a goal and a list of what you need per store. For thrifting, this is a major thing. I have a list of forever items I want to find and a list of things I just want because of a trend I love at the time. Those are two separate lists.

If you want some reference:

Some of my forever items are men’s oversized slacks in crazy colors, cashmere sweaters, vintage style dresses, high waisted jeans, etc. These are items I always check for. Depending on the seasonal trends I may look for things with less longevity.  IE last winter I was super into Realtree Camo and always looked for that.

I guess I’m thrifty? But with a plan.

I hope these tips help you maximize your dollar and put some amazing looks together!

XOXO
Jamie