How to Get Clothes at a Thrift Store

Sifting through the musty racks of a thrift store can be frustrating at times, but there's nothing quite like the thrill of being complimented on a fabulous outfit that cost under $10. Thrifting can turn up just about anything you might need for your wardrobe, from famous name brand classics to quirky retro flare. Here are some tips for finding clothes at a thrift store.

Instructions

1. Thrift early, thrift often. Unpredictability is the blessing and curse of any store that sells second hand clothing. Keep a running list of items you would like to add to your wardrobe and make a point of visiting your local thrift store several times a month.

2. Give yourself plenty of time. Head out to the thrift store when you are feeling particularly patient and have plenty of time. Most likely, you will need to search through hundreds of old pants, shirts and sweaters to find a few things that fit well and look great on you.

3. Bring along a measuring tape to verify things will fit. Since you are searching through clothes from many different eras and manufacturers, sizes are not uniform. Measure waists and inseams against your own dimensions.

4. Dress as lightly as possible when shopping for thrift store clothing. Though some of the more fashionable vintage stores have dressing rooms, many thrift stores do not. Try on clothing over the top of what you are already wearing right out in the open.

5. Inspect thrift store clothing thoroughly before making a purchase. Look over the item for any stains, discoloration or tears. Remember, most thrift store sales are final.

6. Use your imagination. The element of creativity makes shopping for thrift store clothing exciting. Keep an open mind and remember: everything old is new again.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware of a resale shop's inventory patterns so you can have first pickings of the new merchandise. For instance, many second hand stores add clothing to their racks on Monday, after people drop off their weekend garage sale leftovers.