Long time, no see huh (LOL)?! I took a little break and now it’s game time girls *in my Nicki Minaj voice*. Life has been… well you know lifeing lol, but I’m happy to bring you guys a new blog post! I’ve been getting back into thrifting (I was on a whole two month thrift hiatus) and had to revisit some of my own tips. In this blog post, I’m sharing my top 10 tips for thrifting at Goodwill.
1. Visit frequently and consistently
Thrifting takes time, practice, and patience. The more you thrift each week, the better you will become overtime. Most importantly, the more you thrift each week, you’ll begin to develop your own thrifting pattern.
2. Research discount days
Although we are shopping at Goodwill, we still want to save our coins. Goodwill has a color of the week, which items with that specific tag are 50% off. Sometimes, Goodwill even offers manager specials. Find the large sign at the front of the store that shows the color of the week.
3. Be mindful of your purchases
I have a personal rule. If I do not absolutely love an item or can see myself wearing an item in multiple ways, then I do not buy it. Although items at Goodwill are super affordable, we do not want to be wasteful with our money.
4. Don’t forget underrated sections
Underrated sections include pajamas and men’s. You can really elevate your personal style by wearing men’s blazers as dresses or pajama sets for a cute date night look.
5. Find thrift inspiration
If you need help with creating a mood board of items you wish to find at Goodwill, utilize thrift inspiration. Look at fashion or home decor magazines, watch YouTube videos, or save Pinterest images. Here’s a link to a blog post that shares more details on how to find thrift inspiration.
6. Evaluate items thoroughly
Before you head to the register, check for stains, holes, and rips. Although Goodwill is a home for preloved items (meaning items may have a little wear and tear), some items cannot be fixed depending on the damage. Nothing beats buying a clothing piece or household item that you can’t even use (I’ve been there and done that).
7. Browse through bigger sizes
I’ve noticed that sometimes a size large top is really a size medium. Don’t be afraid to buy clothes that are one to two sizes above your normal size. It’s better to have clothes that are too big than too small.
8. Don’t forget accessories
Majority of my purses are from Goodwill (and I paid $5 or less). Goodwill has amazing belts, ties, and jewelry as well. It only takes a little digging to find the good stuff.
9. Dress comfortably
I personally like to wear leggings and a tee when I thrift. If the fitting rooms are closed, I can easily slip something on and off. Also, I’m usually at Goodwill for at least an hour, so I need to be comfortable lol. Wear something that will not stop your flow of thrifting.
10. Don’t forget home decor
Before shopping at Home Goods or TJ Maxx, thrift first! Goodwill has picture frames, lamps, furniture, glassware, and other lil’ knick knacks for a fraction of the price. And most importantly, you can find unique pieces that no one will have in their home.
There you have it. My top tips for thrifting at Goodwill! If you want to become a pro-thrifter at Goodwill, then save this post to use on your next trip. I’m one-thousand percent sure these tips will help you become a better thrifter. And if you’re worried about thrifting at Goodwill in this pandemic, then check out this post.
As always, Happy Thrifting!
