Don't like thrift stores?

It's because you probably don't realize how easy they are to shop. I've had a lot of people tell me how awesome It is that I manage to find such great stuff at second hand shops, and that they'd rather not have to "dig" to find quality clothes amongst heaps of crap! Well let me tell you, second hand shops can actually offer a lot as far as fashion goes. I LOVE pairing new with old, and vintage with designer. I also love not spending a ton on clothes. I have a few tips to make the piles of crap seem not so crappy!

1. Think outside the box. I've found the most amazing silk, ruffly tops and vintage blazers in the old lady section. Old ladies can really have good taste, and they usually take care of their clothes.

And you can always belt it or pin it to make it more snug.

2. Size doesn't matter. I shop in the men's, boys, and woman's section and have lots more luck that way. Since the clothes have probably been worn and laundered already, they might be shrunken, so If you're a size 6, don't forget to look through the size 7, 8, & 9's because chances are, you'll find sizes that fit! I found a jacket once that was super cheap but didn't fit, so I had it altered and it was totally worth it. Look at bigger sizes.

3. Have a list of things you'd like to find in your head. Like, I've been trying to find a blue blazer to wear with jean shorts. So when I stop by the thrift store, I check out the coats, then I comb the little boy's coats too since I'm petite and can usually find great button ups and jackets in the BOY'S section. ALSO, don't forget the men's SMALL racks too. I've found some of my favorite flannel shirts to wear with tights in the men's section.

4. Know when the sales are coming up. Most thrift stores will give you as much as 20% off if you make a donation, so leave a little bag of stuff you don't want in your trunk to save you some money.

5. Vintage sizes are different than regular sizes. So a woman's "12" in a vintage skirt is closer to an actual size "2" or "4". I probably have every size up to a size 12 in my closet. Don't look as sizes. You'd be surprised what fits. 

6. It never hurts to talk the teller down on a price if you think you can. I've saved a lot of money doing this....I might look cheap but it's worth it to save a few bucks.

A few of my favorite thrifty purchases: purple and red hounds tooth skirt, gray suspenders, high waisted shorts, and yellow old lady top. All pieces were purchased for less than $5. Can't beat that. 

{What is the best thrifty-treasure you've come across?}