You may have heard the phrase, “Let’s go thrifting!” What it means is shopping second-hand. Thrift stores sell gently used items or “defective” items that big box stores couldn’t sell. Now, there are many more places to shop for second-hand stuff – stop at a garage sale, find a flea market, check out an estate sale, go to a vintage shop, and surf the web. There are a bunch of second-hand shopping marketplaces online, like Depop and Poshmark (use code SKYEGIRLZ to save $10).

According to Yahoo News, a “renaissance of thrifting” is upon us because young consumers are becoming more conscious of their carbon footprints. More recently, advertisers have been peddling the message of celebrating one’s uniqueness. I have always been the odd-ball out, having friends in different cliques but never really belonging, so this movement that grew from sales tactics really speaks to me. Thrifting is a way to wear something no one else is (or very few people are) wearing, while making a difference!

Most thrift stores have an organization or charity they donate a certain amount of the total proceeds to, which makes shoppers feel good about themselves. Why wouldn’t it? You’re supporting a cause while shopping second-hand and protecting our planet! I always feel some type of way when I leave a thrift store – and yes, maybe it’s because of my shopping addiction. That dopamine release feels goooood!

My partner shared this tip with me recently, and it makes a lot of sense: If you’re shopping for a special occasion, go to a thrift store in an affluent area. They tend to get better-quality donations from people who buy what they want when they want. That said, I live in south St. Pete, where we have several thrift stores that support local communities.

Pay attention to the day and time you go. To find the best pieces possible, I recommend thrifting when the stores open on Tuesday or Wednesday. That gives employees enough time to process donations from the weekend, which is when most people drop-off their used clothing. Not to mention, you get to avoid the crowds (for the most part) and, I don’t know about you, but I do not want to get COVID-19 again.

If you have a decent amount of time, look through everything. That’s how you’ll find the hidden gems! Scan the clothing racks for certain colors that catch your eye, as well as your favorite fabrics. I’m allergic to polyester so, if it doesn’t feel like cotton, silk, or a similar sustainable fabric, I don’t bother picking it up to take a closer look.

Looking for specific garments? Go to the section and search for the color you would like to add to your wardrobe. Recently, I was in need of (iwo) white shorts because I outgrew my old ones and gave them to my little sister. My partner and I went to Goodwill so I could get some. I tried on two pairs and bought them both because one is more boat-worthy and the other is better for a night out. These shorts are timeless and will be in my closet forever, unless they literally fall apart (Break out a needle and thread if a hole happens!).

Utilize dressing rooms – they’re there for a reason! Most thrift stores have a no-return policy. You can’t go home and then decide you don’t like something and get your money back. If the prices are so low you don’t feel like trying anything on, by all means, buy everything in your cart and re-donate whatever doesn’t fit right. Unless something fits like a glove, I don’t buy it. But, if you know how to alter clothing, your possibilities are endless.

Instead of popping in on a random day, ask about scheduled sales. Some stores do color dot sales where items brandishing the “Color of the Day” are discounted. If you want to know about deep discounts, sign up for the store’s email list. I get a text whenever Out of the Closet has a big sale, because discounts on discounts work with my budget (or lack thereof). Thrift stores are already inexpensive so these sales make the trip (and crowd) worthwhile!

Now, we all have our limits. For instance, I would not buy panties second-hand, but I would use them if a good friend gave them to me after doing a load of laundry. What are you not willing to wear second-hand?

Local to St. Pete, FL, or visiting and want to see what all the craze is all about? Back in February, I wrote an article about thrift shops near USF St. Petersburg. Hope you enjoy it!