I'm writing today about one of my favorite things to do, thrifting. In particular, I'm giving you guys my 7 tips for a successful trip to Goodwill. In Charleston, there isn't a lot of other thrift stores, so Goodwill is usually my choice. I always get questions about where I find my wide-leg pants and certain tops, and they're usually from thrifting! I've found such amazing things thrifting, so there is no plan to stop in the near future. Besides, every repurposed clothing item is another stride towards moving away from fast fashion. Anyways, let's get into the tips.

#1

Go when you have time and can stay there awhile.

So often, I'll go to Goodwill with people and they feel the need to do a quick look around and leave. This is for sure not the way to have a successful shopping trip. When I go, I actually go through nearly every section. It takes a little less than 2 hours, but often times, the result is so worth it!

Trust me, I don't go dressed up to thrift. This was the look.

#2

Go with friends who like to thrift

Sometimes it's important to know, some people just don't thrift. It's annoying, but it's true. For a lot of people I've talked to, they find the store to be over whelming and just way out of their ball park. Don't let that discourage you! Just because it's not meant for some of your friends, doesn't mean it's not for you!

#3

Don't go looking for a particular item, be open to everything

I've went to Goodwill before looking for something in particular, whether that be a cardigan or a band tee. Nonetheless, I never find exactly the item I want. Usually, I end up finding a bunch of things I didn't know I'd love! Being open to a lot of different items really inspires me when I incorporate the thrifted items into looks.

#4

Try to think of trends while you look

An example of this tip is gingham. Goodwill is a heaven for gingham lovers everywhere. I've found so many amazing pieces that helped me follow a trend (gingham, checked pants, blazers, band tees) for all less than $7 at Goodwill!

I also shop a lot of house ware! I'm obsessed with vintage glass ware. If I find something, I hand wash it and run it through the wash a few times before using.

I also think finding art for your house is a good idea! You can always repaint the frame or change the artwork.

#5

look in every section

This is no joke. I don't look in kids, but I check out everything else. I literally mean every section. Hit up the women's tops and pants and vice versa. Don't let the signs keep you from finding great pieces! The pants that I wear and everyone loves are from the women's section.

#6

keep diy in mind

This might be the most obvious tip, but everything has potential for new life! You can always cut up denim and make shorts or just a frayed hem. You can also cut pants and with a quick youtube video learn how to hem them. Long sleeve shirts can also easily be turned into cuffed short sleeved ones. Be creative!

don't give up after one trip

This is my most important tip! So often, it's easy to get discouraged when you have to go through racks and racks of clothes. It's important not to give up! There will always be times when you find a lot of items and others where you walk away empty handed.

I was loving all the natural buttons I found on Tommy Bahama items.

Now for a little try on. I ended up finding 8 items to try. This is a more successful amount in my opinion. I had two khaki shorts with pleats, a pair of navy shorts with pleats, a khaki blazer, black denim, and some linen pants. Oh, not to mention a Brooks Brothers black leather belt with gold details (A major score in my opinion)! They're all pictured below, but I ended up walking away with just the belt, linen pants, navy shorts, and the pair of the khaki shorts. Let me know if you guys would want more tips or a video on thrifting in the comments!