The Key to Successful Thrifting

Today was the first day since the school year started that I didn't have a huge assignment or project to work on, so I decided to treat myself to a day of much needed thrifting.  I didn't really need anything else to stuff in my already full closet, but I did need some 'me time,' and what better way than to sift through the racks and racks of insanely low-priced clothing?

A really decent portion of my wardrobe is thrifted, and I was asked recently how I have so much luck with it.  After a good amount of time thinking about it, I came up with a pretty simple equation to answer that:

patience + focus = thrifting success

Walking into a thrift store for the first (or even the thousandth) time can be really daunting.  There is usually a ton of inventory and it can be hard to figure out where to start so I find it really helpful to have a particular item in mind going in.  Today, for example, I was looking for a gingham button down blouse, so each store I went to, I started at the long sleeved blouses and moved on from there.  Once you get past that initial jumping off point, you're gonna need patience and focus.

In my opinion, the key to successful thrifting is looking through every item in the store.  Patience and focus.  I know it sounds crazy, but how else will you find that diamond in the rough?  Thrifting takes more effort than traditional retail shopping, but that work makes amazing finds that much more worth it!  

Writing this made me realize how much I have to say about thrifting, so I might just have to write up some more tips and tricks for future posts.  In the mean time, I can't wait to incorporate my 'new' clothes and accessories into my wardrobe!

2 of my favorite finds from todays thrifting trip: Purse, $2.99. Sheer silk leopard print blouse, $3.99.