My mom and I started shopping at thrift stores for fun while I was in high school and over the years it has remained one of my favorite pastimes. I’ve found some of the most unique pieces for my closet and home for seriously cheap.

Over time, I’ve learned a few things (and picked up quite a few tips from my mom, the thrift shopping queen) that I thought I would share. Thrifting can sometimes feel overwhelming, so hopefully this will help you find those treasures a little easier.

Thrifting Tips

Shop Often. When people ask me how I find good items at the thrift store, the answer is always the same: I go all the time! Thrifting is like the lottery - your chances of finding an amazing item increase by going more often. Nine times out of ten I walk out of a thrift shop empty handed. Then I score big. If you want to find something, chances are you’ll have to go often. Most treasure isn’t found by stopping in every once in a while. 

Know When Restock Day Is. Ask your thrift store what day of the week they set new merchandise out. I hunt down the bins and racks of new items that employees are setting out and always dig through them first. That has been one of the ways I’ve snagged some amazing items before others have found them. Other option is to hover/stalk employees as they set items out in the least creepy way possible.  

Thrift With A Purpose. Sometimes I’m in the mood to dig through everything, but other times it’s overwhelming to feel like I need to cover the whole store. Digging through every single item can be fun, but it isn’t for the faint of heart. That is when I’ve found creating a list helpful. Write a list beforehand of specific items you need and give yourself a quick refresh before you head inside the store. That way you can shop in specific areas and just glance over others if you have time. If you’re up for it, digging through each and every item can be rewarding and fun - just know how you are going to shop for that trip, and stick with it. 

Search All Sizes. This one applies to clothing. When looking for a specific item, always check both the mens and women’s sections, and make sure to cover all sizes. I’ve found great t-shirts and coats in the mens “large” section that fit me well. Every brand and size is so different, you can find great options in other areas too!

Hone Your Eye And Be strong. Just because something is cheap, doesn’t mean you need to buy it. Don’t be fooled - an ugly shirt that you would never purchase can start to look cute in comparison to all the other crap around the store. Look at items objectively and decide if you would purchase it if it were for sale in another store. Sometimes it’s helpful to grab an item and carry it around to decide if you absolutely love it before checking out. A few times pieces have been snagged from me when I couldn’t make up my mind, so there’s no harm in throwing an item in your cart and re-evaluating things as you shop. Just remember, if you’re not in love with it, there’s no need to buy it. 

Go With A DIY Mindset. Study lines and shape in furniture. Sometimes all a piece needs is a fresh coat of paint to bring it back to life. Vases, picture frames, and candlesticks can be spray painted to match your home. The possibilities really are endless, so always think of what you can create. Just make sure it’s worth the effort! 

Consider the Neighborhood. Inventory for thrift stores typically comes from the surrounding area, so consider the places you are shopping and maybe hop around until you find one that carries the type of items you are looking for. I know what different thrift shops in my city carry and I cut my shopping time down significantly by looking at only furniture in one, only clothing at another, etc.

Hope this was helpful! Let me know if any of you guys find some thrift store treasures over on Instagram.

Chloe Rey