A beginner’s guide to thrifting
Want to thrift, but don’t know where to begin? This helpful guide demystifies navigating the second-hand clothing and accessory market.
Know what you want
Knowing your personal style — or in today’s terminology — your “brand,” helps navigate over-crowded apps. A helpful start would be to follow fashion bloggers and Pinterest boards of looks that you’d like to emulate. For me personally, a few celebrities I use for inspiration are Rosie-Huntington Whiteley and Kendall Jenner (styled by Dani Michelle). I pay attention to their social media posts and do my best to recreate certain looks at an affordable price point.
2. Identify brands that align with your personal style
Oftentimes, celebrities and influencers tag their stylists or the brands they’re wearing in their social media posts. For example, if you see a Hailey Bieber tag a sweater by The Row, there’s a high chance you’d like other pieces by the same brand. After narrowing down a few brands that you like, you can then search for these brands on second-hand apps and invest in high-quality pieces that’ll last from season to season.
3. Always negotiate
Depending on the app, sellers often post prices that are double, if not triple the cost they originally paid for the item. On an app like Depop where sellers directly post and set their prices, it’s important to leverage your perspective as a buyer, especially if you’re interested in a non-designer item. This doesn’t apply to apps like The RealReal or ThredUP where prices are set by the company, and not the individual seller.
4. Get clothing tailored, if needed
Flattering on most body types, a “boyfriend look” is rather popular these days. However, a tailored fit can give a polished and professional look depending on the article of clothing. There is a difference between an intentionally oversized look and an I thrifted a shirt that’s four sizes too large look. One says I stole my boyfriend’s shirt and made it look chic, the other says I purchased this from the Salvation Army and threw it on. Always aim to be the former!
5. Quality > Quantity, always.
Investing in a few timeless pieces that can carry you from season to season is the key to minimizing waste in your wardrobe. A timeless cashmere coat by MaxMara will outlast a trendy and affordable coat from FashionNova.
