Thrifting CLOTHING 101: How to Upgrade Your Closet Without Overconsuming
We’ve all been there: you walk into the thrift store for "one quick look" and walk out an hour later with a cart full of $5 treasures- half of which will sit in the back of your closet with the tags still on.
Overconsumption at the thrift store is a real thing! Because everything is more affordable than at the mall, it’s easy to justify buying things "just because" or “just in case.” To help you navigate the racks like a pro, here are my tried-and-true tips for staying focused and building a wardrobe you actually love.
Step 1: Shop Your Closet First
Before you even grab your car keys, it’s super important to take a moment and go through what you already own. Ask yourself these five questions to narrow down what you’re looking for:
What is actually missing? Take a literal inventory. Do you need basic tees for layering? Better pants for the office? Write a list on your phone and stick to it. It can help to take photos or build a thrift wishlist on Pinterest.
What fabrics do I actually wear? Check the tags of your favorite pieces. If you constantly reach for cotton and linen but avoid polyester, don't buy that 100% polyester blouse just because the print is cute. Touch the fabrics as you browse and check tags; your hands will often find the quality before your eyes do. Also, think about whether you want to put the time and care into the fabric. You might love the idea of a wool sweater, but do you want to follow through with the upkeep?
What is my go-to silhouette? If you have five skirts in your closet that you never wear because you prefer pants, stop buying skirts. If you’re always bummed when your favorite oversized tee is in the wash, that’s a sign to look for more of that specific fit.
Which colors make me feel good? Knowing your personal no-go colors is a superpower. For me, butter yellow is an automatic "no." It doesn't matter how cheap or high-end the brand is- if the color doesn't work for me, it stays on the rack.
Which brands fit me best? We all have those ‘Goldilocks’ brands that just seem to be made for us. Keep a mental (or digital) note of them. Also, remember the brands that always run too small or use itchy materials, so that you can skip those entirely.
Step 2: The Quality Inspection
Unfortunately, not everything donated is in great shape. Before you head to the register, give your finds a look-over to avoid any buyer's remorse:
For Pants: Check the belt loops for rips and the inner thighs/seat for pilling or thinning. Hold them up to the light to see if the fabric is wearing through.
For Tops: Look for "the lean", twisted side seams that mean the shirt will never sit straight. Check the armpits for stains, the neckline for stretching, and the seams for loose threads.
The Hardware Check: Always zip and unzip every zipper and make sure all the buttons are present. Replacing a button is easy; replacing a broken zipper is a headache.
Step 3: Pro Tips for the Trip
Preparation is the difference between a frustrating trip and a successful haul.
Bring a Tape Measure: Fitting room lines can be long (or even non-existent). Know your measurements- waist, inseam, and pit-to-pit- and measure the garment flat. It’s much more reliable than just eyeballing it. I also keep a list of brands I like and the general sizes that fit them, which comes in especially handy for jeans and pants.
The "Bins" Protocol: If you’re hitting the Goodwill Outlets (the bins), come prepared. Wear gloves and a mask. It’s dusty, chaotic, and you never know what’s at the bottom of a pile.
Don't Forget Your Bags: Keep a few sturdy reusable bags in your trunk. Many thrift stores are moving away from plastic, and they’re much easier to carry anyway. Plus, your thrifted goods look cute in a Baggu or other fun reusable bag!
Dress the Part: It’s easier to try stuff on when you come prepared. Wear a tight-fitting base layer, like leggings and a tank top or fitted tee. This allows you to try on a jacket or a skirt over your clothes in the aisle if the dressing rooms are closed.
Look Beyond Your Size: Sizing has changed drastically over the decades. A large from the 1970s might fit like a modern small. Shop by the look and the measurements, not the number on the tag.
Thrifting takes time. If you walk out empty-handed, consider it a win- it means you didn't buy something you didn't need! And if this happens, maybe it’s an excuse to grab an iced coffee!
Looking for a perfect playlist for your next thrift trip? Listen to my Sippin’ & Thriftin’ playlist on Spotify and Apple Music. It’s got a little bit of everything, just like the thrift store! So grab your bestie, go for a drive, and listen to some good tunes while you sip your iced coffee and thrift around town!
What’s your favorite thrift find of all time? Let me know in the comments!
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