RedRaider
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Also, I wanted to pass along a few tips for those who are new to thrifting. I've been hitting up the local stores pretty regularly the last few weeks and trying to enhance my wardrobe (as funny as that sounds). I have been thrifting for a few years now and have tried to perfect the art. - Be consistent - Good thrift stores will have very regular merch turnover. Don't be wary of hitting up the same store two or three times a week (especially if the store is nearby home or work). Ask when merch is put on the floor and if all merch that is dropped off at the store is put out on the floor or of it is shipped off to other stores/organizations. - Don't buy it. Thrifting for many is about finding great clothing or other items that oneself will use. Unfortunately most thrift stores are not like a department store. Labels, condition of clothing, color and style are all variables that must come together in order to find that treasure. If you're buying for yourself, don't buy a 'fringe' item that you may or may not incorporate into your wardrobe. Yes, you can always get something tailored to fit if it's close, but that suit that retails for $2k isn't worth $10 if it doesn't fit you. Now, if you are a little entrepreneurial and want to pass along a great item to a fellow SFer, pick it up. If not, save your money and try again another day! When to Go. All the time is fine, but I prefer weekdays. The pace is a little slower and there aren't as many people looking for the same type of stuff. I've also noticed some stores will run specials during the week to try to get a few more sales. It all adds up to a better thrifting experience in my opinion. Location is Overrated. For the longest time I would only regularly visit the thrift store closest to my place. Why? I thought the middle/upper class area would mean better clothing and more of it. It was starting to be the same stuff and not a lot of great finds. I recently began to expand my horizon, visiting stores in other parts of town - and what did I find? The other stores, especially downtown (where a lot of people work, but not a lot of people live) are loaded with great stuff. I feel renergized and I've opened my eyes to thrifting at other stores. More stores more merch. Have a Plan. - After you start thrifting, you'll begin to know what's good, what's junk and how to quickly analyze merchandise within seconds. Most of the stuff is what you'd expect to find in a thrift store, but that one item you find is worth looking through all the other items. I find it helpful to look through shirts first (they are the easiest and quickest item to scan), then suits, then pants and then shoes. I feel like this is the best way for me to organize my visits. Everyone will find their own methods. Finally, I love the feel of the hunt to find treasures. Folks get rid of stuff for all sorts of reasons and those who are thrift regularly can find some great items for a fraction of the retail price. No matter if you're looking to expand your wardrobe, collect vintage items or to just find a unique piece, thrifting can be a fun and exciting experience.