The Modest Budget: 6 Tips for Successful Thrift Store Shopping

Thrift stores are such great resources, everybody knows that. This week I was able to find 3 work out shorts (one that was brand new!) a black pair of Gap boyfriend shorts and a chevron throw for only $12 total!!

Edited to add: The day after I posted this, I bought a dress and 4 pairs of like-new pants for $22! #thriftchamp

Thrift shops are great, not only for filling your closet on a budget, but also for finding unique pieces that can take your home or your outfit one step up.

And thrift store shopping has even become trendy! BUT...

Are you GOOD at thrift store shopping?? 

I seriously think it's a skill. One my mom is really good at! 

So today I'm sharing with you 6 tips that she has shared with me to help you take full advantage of thrift store shopping!

1. Know what you're looking for

If you're not looking for a prom dress, don't look at the prom dress section. I knew I wanted work out shorts and black shorts, so I stuck to hunting through the shorts sections. I casually flipped through the other racks, but stick to what you're looking for.
Having a list (mentally or literally) of things you know you need is a great way to snag a deal when you find it. I didn't plan on shopping that day, but I had made a mental note about shorts, so I didn't have to consider the purchase for very long.

2. Know your local thrift stores

The most important things you need to know about your local thrift stop:
a) when they restock their shelves - because there's typically only one of everything, you will find the best deals on the first or second day that those items are on the shelf! Some thrift stores are constantly shelving things, but other stores have days devoted to restocking. Know those days, and plan for them  when you're really hunting.
b) when their discount days are - I think every thrift store I've ever been to has different discounts on different days. The reason I was able to get all these shorts for so cheap was because half of them were tagged orange, and I happened to be there on their "orange day" (which made all of them 50% off!). Some places have military days, or 50% all clothing or furniture.
c) their return policy - Because every thrift store is different, pay attention to their return policy before you buy something. If you're anything like me, you're accustomed to going home and trying something on with other items in your closet before you keep it. Some thrift stores don't allow returns or exchanges, so beware!;)

3. Pay attention to the condition and washing instructions

Do you know how many times I've accidentally bought "dry clean only" items?? It's ridiculous. I'm trying to be better about reading all the labels before I buy something!
On the same note, be extra careful to inspect for stains, wear and tear on a product. Remember, it was loved before it found you; make sure it wasn't too loved!

4. A dollar for every day you wear

Find something a little bit outside of your comfort zone? A great way to think about your purchase is an item is worth $1 for every day you wear it. If it's $5: will you wear/use it 5 times? or more?? Go for it!

This can work for house things, too. This throw blanket was so cozy, and only $2.99. I have already used it on the couch three times for study nights! Which means it was money well spent. (And c'mon, how fab does it look on my chevron chair?? #chevrononchevron #chevronfordays)

Actually, this chair, the green luggage boxes, and the orange leather footrest were thrift finds, too!

5. Know what the best things to buy second hand are

The best items tend to be the ones that people get rid of because they are tired of the item or it's been outgrown, not because it's worn out. These items typically include:

- Jeans

- Skirts

- Dresses (esp formal)

- (some) Formal shoes

- House items

- Kid clothes (esp shoes and denim)

On the flip side, items that are typically worn out before their donated include:

- Basic T's & tanks

- Leggings

- Toys (except the durable, Tonka truck-type)

- Sleepwear

- Tennis shoes/flip flops

But of course, there are always exceptions! Which leads us to my final tip:

6. Don't be afraid to hunt!

Sometimes it will take a while to find what you want. Don't give up! The hunt is part of the fun. And when you finally find what you're looking for, it's going to feel so good! (For you and hopefully your wallet! ;)
I found these shorts at the end of the summer season, but for $2.50 they were a great investment for next year.

Hope these tips were helpful!

Have you found any thrift store deals lately?

What are your thrift store success tips and tricks?
Tag me with your thrift store finds on Instagram at #TheModestBudget!

Check out my Top 3 Fave Thrift Store Outfits here!

Linking up with some awesome parties here!