Shifting to Thrifting
I remember walking into Goodwill without a clue what I was doing— the only objective being to thrift. Thrifting had long since become popular, and I was late to the party, as usual. For years, my sister tried to get me to join her on her thrifting expeditions, but I wasn’t interested. I couldn’t see the appeal of sifting through clothes and items that once belonged to strangers, all for the slim chance of finding something I liked. Eventually, though, she came home with enough successful hauls that I decided I’d give this beloved hobby a try.
I stared at the endless rows of furniture, dish-ware, clothing and electronics— pretty much every object imaginable— and began to think I was in way over my head. I had no idea where to start, what I was looking for or how to actually thrift. Thrifting sounds simple enough: find a second-hand piece that stands out to you and buy it for a low price. But I’d seen my sister’s methods–hardcore thrifters have strategies that help them uncover the best finds, at least I’d thought. I didn’t know if I had it in me.
My sister’s hauls always amazed me: fashionable tops, vintage candleholders, ornate stained-glass lamps–all for under twenty dollars. I started imagining what my own hauls could look like. Maybe I’d find gorgeous clothing pieces to style into new outfits, or vintage furniture to decorate my home. When I told my sister I wanted to take thrifting seriously, she declared herself my “thrifting mentor.” At first, I felt completely lost in the aisles of Goodwill, but over time she quickly taught me the art of thrifting–and how sweet the reward could be.
To learn how to thrift, I first had to learn patience–something I still can’t say I’ve mastered. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by aisles packed with trinkets, clothes and household items. I had to remind myself to take it slow. Sometimes, the skirt of your dreams is buried between five things you wouldn’t even glance at. Thrifting also taught me that the process is more fun when shared. Going with my sister turned the search into a bonding experience with laughter and conversation. Hours passed as we combed through every rack–both men’s and women’s–discovering pieces we never expected to find, from oversized sweaters to perfectly worn-in jeans.
I was taught to thrift with a few items in mind. If you’ve been hunting for a vintage Coach bag, keep your eyes peeled. If you’ve been dying to own a pair of baggy Levi jeans, prioritize the jeans section first. It is easy to get lost in the sea of items, so narrowing down what you’d like to walk away with can give your thrifting experience some direction. But, as I learned, too much focus can cause you to miss the unexpected treasures around you. My sister had to remind me that going thrifting with a goal can be helpful, but to also let yourself be surprised by other items you didn’t anticipate looking for. This advice is how I’ve found myself coming home with beautiful paintings, detailed mirrors and name-brand heels.
Finally, the golden rule: always check back later for more second-hand items. Thrift stores refresh their inventory constantly, and patience and persistence pay off. Some days you strike gold, and others you don’t. As I’ve learned, thrifting isn’t just about scoring the perfect item; it’s about enjoying the experience. When you do find that special piece you know you can’t leave behind, that’s the bonus. All that said, while there are definitely tips and tricks to finding what you’re looking for, thrifting is often a matter of luck. Connecting with your friends or thrifting partner is what makes the trip worthwhile. Of course, it doesn’t hurt when you can say you came home with a vintage cherry-wood bookcase.
Now, my home is filled with thrifted treasures: cozy sweaters, picture frames, decorative mirrors, shoes, a record player and even an ice maker. As someone who now loves to thrift, I can confidently say it’s worth it. Getting into thrifting can feel daunting at first–you might not know where to start or worry you’re “doing it wrong.” But there is no right way to thrift. Even if you walk out empty-handed a few times, remember that the best finds come with time. In a world full of clutter and mass-produced goods, thrift stores offer an affordable way to reuse, repurpose and rediscover–and that helps both the planet and your wallet. While my sister introduced me to my love of thrifting, maybe I can introduce you to yours. Grab a friend and see what your local thrift stores have to offer–you might just come home with your new favorite sweater, painting or hobby.
