Tips on Thrift Store Navigation

After lots of trips to Goodwill and Plato's Closet, I feel that my shopping methods have developed well. Here are a few helpful hints for shopping in second-hand stores that may assist you in your next outing.

Tip 1: Make a list

Before you start rummaging through the many shelves or clothing racks, make a list of the items you hope to find. If you're specifically shopping for jeans, stick to the denim aisles. Don't overwhelm yourself with the other crowded racks. If you can't find an item in that store, ask an employee for help. If that fails, wait until you can visit another store.

Tip 2: Grab anything that catches your eye

Yes, this contradicts the first tip, but often this is the best way to go. If you walk into Goodwill with no agenda, there's no pressure. You may find a hidden treasure, but if you don't, it's not the end of the world.

Tip 3: Look for higher quality

If you're trying to decide between a few items, always pick the one that will last longer. You can often find popular or well known brands at thrift stores - brands that are known for their quality products. If you do find these kinds of items, take advantage of the deal! Great quality at a low price? It doesn't get much better than that.

Tip 4: Have Fun!

Cliche, yes, but seriously, enjoy your shopping experience. Google search your area for thrift stores and you might find some small, unique stores. In my hometown, for instance, we have a store called Cheap Thrills. It's a thrift store that carries vintage clothing, handbags and furniture, as well as costumes and modern clothing. I love this store! I can spend hours just trying on outfits and hats. Have fun, walk out with an item or two, and you won't have to put lots of money out. Perfect day!

Finding creativity for an uncreative me

I am surrounded by brillant, creative people. I don't believe I am ignorant or without intelligence by any means, but I have always struggled with what creativity looks like in my life. My friends are artists, poets and musicians. I have often asked myself, someone with little talent in art or poetry, how I can be creative. To my surprise, I think I stumbled upon something.

Last March, I, along with my entire school, was encouraged to find a way to serve others. I wanted to find a practical way to take less and give more. My solution? I would only buy used clothing, shoes and accessories for a year. So, as of March 2009, I am going without full-sale products. I'm not one to spend excessively anyway, but I do have somewhat expensive taste. I worked at Gap and loved to invest my paycheck back into the company - I spent more than I should have. Today, though, I spend time at Goodwill, Plato's Closet, Salvation Army and other second-hand stores. The process has not always been easy, but I love the hunt for great quality and good deals.

Thoroughly Thrifty is a project that has stemmed from this commitment I made in March. As I was looking for my creative outlet, I realized how fun it could be to make shopping an art. I want to find the best deals, discover coupons and raid thrift stores for hidden treasures. We've heard it often, but our present financial state pleads for ways to save money. Visiting thrift stores can be exciting and enjoyable, as well as easy on the wallet. This blog is a place to share ideas about places to shop for second-hand items. It also will serve as a platform for my discoveries of excellent finds as I shop. Overall, Thoroughly Thrifty focuses on the joy of being creative with the second-hand world. Until next time...shop thrifty. :)