Trending: Thrift Stores Exposed

Fashion is an everyday template. Like months pass, so do fashion statements. Many attempt to keep up with the trends, eager to be dressed in runway look-a-likes, and designer knock offs. Frequently in question are things like what patterns are winning, what accessories are in demand, and what shape purse is most contagious. Thankfully, for every celebrity car payment draped gracefully over a forearm, there is a “lost twin,” much more practical in price, and ideally identical to the naked eye. So while we flip through magazines or channel surf, we often forget a motto eagerly pushed on us growing up:be yourself. While copycat attire is not a mark of fleeting originality, it can be more feasible to look to the media instead of conjuring our own original take on shirts, suits, and ties.

Enter the little respected dainty shop with one of a kind finds: the thrift shop. Yes, I hear the eye rolls. I sense the head shakes and the nose perch up just a bit. Some are confused about the support of these second-hand shops. Many swear by their prices, and non-nonchalantly brush off the “ick” factor of not wearing something brand new. I have personally found great items at these shops in superb condition, reasonably tagged, and above all else, not in large quantity. I think the best thing about a thrift shop or an antique store is the fact that a duplicate is highly unlikely. I appreciate the times, and often dabble in the “who is wearing what,” hoopla of Hollywood elite. I have often added to my wardrobe with accessories or articles of clothing seen on television or in print.

Thrift shops do have a regulation of inspecting items that are supplied. Smell, condition, style, and season are all taken into consideration when accepting charitable giving, so as much as I have joked about buying the jacket a woman was killed in, they do possess a level of selection. Not only are thrift shops great for clothes at a bargain, but home decor as well. I focus on the term thrift shop, but I am referring to any privately owned boutique, or second-hand retail facility. Boutiques can be a bit more pricey, but I hope to capitalize on the originality of shopping “different,” over the leisure of style sororities.

Now time is of the issue; do not expect to walk in and find everything in the best condition immediately. It does take some perusing. That bargain buy takes a little bit of hunting time, or sometimes a lot. But when you find that perfectly worn in jean jacket, faded at just the right amount at the elbows or pocket, and it fits like a glove: golden ticket. The best part is when you peek over to that white tag so delicately stapled to the sleeve, and see its flirting right under $8.00, you can’t help but wonder its story. What happened in this? Did someone fall in love in this? Did someone have the best day of their life in this? Did someone have their heart broken while buttoning up denim heaven? Why is it here? But then you pick it up, take it off the hanger, and approach the register. Perhaps you look for some jeans, or a vintage shirt, or maybe you are satisfied with this steal buy, and bag it up. Either way you prance down the street, bear the cold weather, and wonder what will happen to you in it.

Don’t second guess second-hand shops. Just because there’s a little life in your buy, does not mean its less lively, hip, or beautiful. Like you.

Thrift shops hold treasures. Slightly worn, yes. Maybe a little dinged, true. Perhaps even a bit stretched or under colored, but the fascination of that exemplary buy, that vintage look or one of a kind print, not only accessorizes any well kept closet, but it brings an immediate touch of individuality. Bargain up people! It’s worth it.