Who else takes shopping pretty seriously? Whether it’s going out for the annual sales, couponing, or stalking the clearance rack—we’ve all done it before. But seriously, who doesn’t love a great deal?
After finding out that the average American throws away roughly 80 pounds of clothing per year, I started thinking “are people re-selling this stuff?!?”. The answer is YES. There have been extraordinary reports of shoppers thrifting since the 2008 recession. “Thrift shopping” is a term used for buying secondhand clothing at low and affordable prices. Shoppers may use this tactic to buy upscale brands they would otherwise never pay full price for.
Fizzact: Switching solely to thrift for 1 year can save shoppers an average of $2,500
Did you know millennials thrift more than any other generation? Known for our impulsive buying, shoppers from the ages of 18 to 34 are now reinventing the wheel. This generation is taking everything they know and love about shopping and finding new innovative ways to give their unwanted clothing a second life through thrifting. This phenomenon expands from in-person stores to websites and apps like Poshmark.
Poshmark allows shoppers to both sell and buy secondhand apparel, jewelry, and handbags. Simply take 4-5 photos of the garment, write a brief but informative description regarding the condition and use, add a selling price, and BOOM. You have entered the Posh-World. Viewers can bid, like, or comment on your item. Once the transaction is approved, you’re ready to ship! Thrift shopping brought to you via cellphone.
Check out some of my styles on Poshmark @KiaraEscalera
This year I started thrifting, and it has been one of the greatest shopping adventures ever. You ultimately never know what you are going to find, and that’s the thrill. Entering a building with a blank canvas and exiting with a plethora of concepts and ideas (and of course the savings, duhh).
Tips:
Numero Uno: Always wash your clothing before wearing. This is the most important rule in my book. When buying thrift, you never know who the previous owner was or where the clothing has come from. Keep it on the safe side, wash your clothing! Many times, clothing is left is attics or basement until found. This is unwanted germs and dust you are putting against your skin. Freshen things up by popping the clothing in the washer or bringing it to the dry cleaners and you’re set to go!
Remember to bring your own reusable bags. If you live in a major city, many times establishments will charge you for a shopping bag. Thrift stores are a little different, not only will they charge you for reusable shopping bag, but 9 times out of 10 they do not distribute plastic bags. So, it’s up to you to save the environment and your $$$. I try to leave a few bags in my truck for the special occasion.
Always sign up for the reward program. I usually only sign-up if it’s free (but hey, that’s just me). Most stores have a loyalty program where shoppers can receive weekly saving deals via email or text. Just add on the savings!
Bonus tip: Create an email just for junk. One of my pet peeves is searching for a crucial email in a land filled with “EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS TODAY ONLY” headlines.
Keep your receipts! Some store policies aren’t always so kind, I’ve had my run in with a few places that won’t even go through with a return. To ensure their store is as trendy and well-kept as possible, selected shops conduct weekly cleanings. In other words, clothing has a lifespan of 7 days on the floor pad before it is discarded. Of course, this is not all thrift stores, but you will find some like that.
Basically, no receipt = no exchange or refund.
Everyone’s looking for a sale. Take your time and don’t rush. You’ll be amazed by some of the things you’ll find and people you’ll meet along the way.
The votes are in, thrift is the way to go!
