-
Step 1
Find the right thrift store.
Some thrift stores are good, and some aren't. There's no telling from chain to chain, or location to location. A bad thrift store might sell ratty or torn clothing. Or another thrift store might sell clothing that's very overpriced. Visit all the stores in your area and find the right one, with high quality clothing and low prices. Don't be scared of the location. Some of the best thrift stores are in slightly poorer areas, because the clothing hasn't been picked over. -
Step 2
Find the sweater aisle.
Every thrift store has one. Men and women's sweaters are usually placed in different locations in the store. -
Step 3
Find qualilty sweaters.
Look for sweaters without fraying, loose threads, stains, or excessive wear. Be aware of yellowing in white sweaters. -
Step 4
Check the tag.
Check the tag and see what the sweater is made of. Is it wool or acrylic? What brand is the sweater? Do you recognize the brand as upscale, or is it Old Navy? -
Step 5
Look for classic sweaters. If a sweater is tied to a particular era, avoid it. For example, a late 90's sweater from the Gap will look truly out of style. Try to find classic and designer brands. The more expensive your sweater was originally, the more likely it is to hold a style for a long period of time.
-
Step 6
Check the pattern.
If the sweater is truly classic, it will have a pattern that blends into your wardrobe. Avoid sweaters with clashing or tacky colors. -
Step 7
Make sure the price is right.
Unless you are at a consignment shop, you shouldn't pay more than 10 dollars for a particular sweater. Paying less allows you to buy more. -
Step 8
Be aware that some things might not work.
When you get your sweaters home from the thrift store, you might find that one of them doesn't work with your wardrobe. Give away the sweaters that don't work. Whatever you do, don't wear around a sweater that doesn't look good.
