So I’ve recently rekindled my love for thrifting. I used to absolutely love to go thrifting frequently, and I’m not sure why I even stopped. I love the thrill of the hunt. I love to find one of a kind pieces to add to my wardrobe. Thrifting for clothing is what I especially love to do. There’s no shame in wearing gently used clothing, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! Not only is it cost effective, but it is also a huge trend right now. Who would’ve thought thrifting and trend would be mentioned in the same sentence? There used to be a time when people would thrift because that’s all they could afford. Now people thrift because it’s the it thing to do. Well if you’re not convinced that thrifting is a thing, then allow me to persuade you with my top 5 reasons why you should thrift for clothing. Whether it be online or at a physical store, thrifting is definitely a way of shopping worth trying out.
1. AFFORDABILITY
It is more affordable than paying retail price. If you’re on a budget and looking to add more unique pieces to your wardrobe, then thrifting is the best option. I love to shop, so thrifting satisfies that in a more affordable way. I know not everyone can afford to pay a lot of money for clothing, so thrifting allows you to get more bang for your buck especially if you’re looking to revamp your wardrobe. Why not start with thrifting? In some cases and at some thrift stores, you can literally spend a few cents on a t-shirt. I’ve spent $9 on a men’s suit that was very high quality from the thrift store. There is no way you’ll find an entire suit for $9 at any retailer other than a thrift store unless there’s something wrong with it, and it won’t be high quality. Don’t waste that $10 on a Starbucks order. Run to your local thrift store and get you an outfit that you’ll look and feel good wearing now and for years to come.
2. UNIQUE ITEMS
Thrifting is great because you’ll find those unique one of a kind items that not everyone will be walking the streets wearing. I’ve recently had the revelation that I’m tired of going out and looking like everyone else. I don’t want to continue to buy what everyone else is buying and walk around looking like a clone. Thrifting gives you the opportunity to be creative and unique. It also allows you to have your own unique style. I cherish my thrifted items more so than any other pieces that I have in my wardrobe because I know the thrifted item has a story, and I get to continue on with that story when I wear the piece. Those items are my “special” items that I will never get rid of and will have in my wardrobe for years.
3. TRENDS
Thrifting is one such way to try out trends. The thrift store is full of trendy items that you can try in a more sustainable way. Fashion trends have a way of coming back around year after year. There’s nothing really new under the sun. It’s just recycled! Some of the hottest trends right now are cargo pants, platform heels, bright colors, sequins, denim, and maxi skirts, all of which you can easily find at the thrift store. I came across several of those trends on my recent thrift trip. To be honest, pretty much everything goes right now as it pertains to fashion trends. If you pick it up from the thrift store, it will most likely be on trend. So if you don’t want to spend a whole lot of cash but still want to look current, then thrifting is where you should go to first.
4. DESIGNER ITEMS
If you’re anything like me, and you love a good designer piece, then the thrift store is perfect for you. I’ve picked up so many designer items from the thrift store over the years whether it be online or in store. I like to purchase my designer handbags second hand because it’s more affordable. You can snag some high end designer brands for a fraction of the cost at the thrift store. I’ve gotten Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry, and Fendi handbags second hand and am so happy I went that route rather than paying full retail at the designer boutique. I’ve also gotten Ralph Lauren clothing items from the thrift store as well. My favorite online retailer to purchase designer handbags is Vestiaire Collective. The majority of my handbags have come from this second hand luxury website. They actually authenticate the items for you to ensure you’re not getting a knock off. You can also check out sites like Ebay, Fashionphile, or The Real Real. I’ve never purchased anything from those online sites, but those who do have raved about them. So stop paying full price for those luxury pieces and check out the second hand market. Your bank account will be happy you did.
5. DIY
Thrifting is perfect for those do-it-yourselfers who like to be a little creative with your style. For instance, if you’re looking to add some distressing to a pair of denim jeans, you can pick up a pair from the thrift store and put as many rips and holes in them as your heart desires. I just recently purchased a Ralph Lauren button up men’s shirt from the thrift store and cropped it myself. I wanted a cropped button up shirt but didn’t want to experiment with a shirt I already owned just in case I didn’t like the results.
As you can see from the results above, it didn’t turn out perfect, but I like the distressed look of it. It adds more character and personality to the shirt. Hence, this piece has just transformed into a one of a kind, affordable and trendy piece that I can cherish and be proud of because it’s unique to me and my style.
After this article, if you’re still not convinced that thrifting is the way to go, then check out some of my recent thrifting videos over on my Youtube channel and see first hand some of the gems that I’ve purchased through the years and even recently. Now go to the thrift store and get creative! Just be careful with those scissors!!!
Crystal Momon 
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