thrifting- the exciting move into the past

When it comes to clothes, the best way to go is always second hand. Luckily, the fashion world is starting to recognise this. With brands initiating a stronger focus on sustainability, consumers are beginning to see the recycling of old products on the runway and growth in online thrifting brands like Depop and Thredup. While shopme focusses largely on allowing users to purchase items from brands with strong ethical capability, it's always better to reuse and recycle than to create.

Retro on the rise

Thrifted and vintage clothing is becoming exceedingly popular in the world of modern fashion. However, it is important to have a sustainable mindset when thrifting. Most people who thrift think they can buy everything in the store and they are practically helping the environment. It is vital not to adopt this way of thinking as it will lead to an unsuccessful thrifting experience.

The bottom line when it comes to thrifting is that an item's only useful if it's replacing clothes that you would otherwise buy new. Rather than walking into a second hand store and buying everything which is mildly appealing, make sure you are purchasing things you want and need. Ask yourself questions with each item; 'Will this require alterations to fit me?', 'How would this fit into my wardrobe?', 'Does this represent my overall style vision?', 'Will I actually wear this?'.

You are an expert... so act like it.

Every thrifter needs a plan. While thrifting can be a fun hobby and the luck of the draw is what makes it exciting, always go into a store with your eye on the prize. Keep a list for things to look out for. If you read the last shopme blog about finding your style, go back to your inspiration board and look for basic pieces you need to build your desired style. For instance, if one particular outfit you like includes a lace cami layered underneath a sweater, add a plain white lace cami and a knit sweater to your list. Make sure you're as specific as possible with what you want from the store. Unlike mall shopping, it helps to have a clear picture of what you are looking for in your mind. From this, you can then begin to find items similar to this vision, try them on and visualise them as part of an outfit. Don't rationalise a purchase just because its cheap and reused, make sure everything you buy you will wear.

Go digital

Online thrifting is a big and scary world, and the rules of normal shopping don't always apply here. Resale apps can be a great alternative to thrift stores if you are looking for a specific item, something vintage which will resell well or if you don't have a thrift store in your local area. On online thrift stores like Depop or Poshmark, it is vital to consider factors like the cost of shipping and alternative outlets selling the same items. Online thrifting comes with added complications like a lack of change-rooms and it is important to be aware of these setbacks before you go pro. On an online platform like Depop, I recommend mainly sticking to accessories which will fit no matter what or items you are confident you wont have to send back. While a thrifted item online can look like a bargain, always compare how much a similar item would cost in your local thrift store.

Thredup or Thrifted. are great options that can also be used to curate a style look book. Find items you like and picture them in your wardrobe and in outfits. Both of these platforms can be a great opportunity to find those special ticket items.

Try on e v e r y t h i n g

That dress is a kids size? Try it on.

That shirt looks ugly on the rack? Try it on.

You have no idea what you would ever wear those jeans with because they are made with the most unattractive pattern you've ever seen? Try. it. on.

Most of the time when thrifting it can be hard to see the vision of the outfit you're trying to create while it's still hanging on the rack. Always try anything that piques your interest because most of the time these are the things you regret not buying when you get home. Plus, clothes always show their true colours in the change room. That sweater with the cute neck may make you look like the Michelin man, but, that skirt with the trim which you thought looked too frilly on the mannequin- perfect. You can find that something fits when you never thought it would or a new colour you haven't tried before complements your skin tone perfectly. Don't just lightly browse either, look through it all! Most of the time I find it difficult to find those stand out pieces by just scanning the aisles. I want you down on your knees hunting like a dog for that perfect sweater that's just that bit too far at the back of the rack. You never know, you might find your clothing soulmate.

Thrifting has a definite process, find what suits you, try out these methods and see what works best. Good luck with all your thrifting endeavours!

#clothing #shopping #thrifting #secondhand #vintage #retro