The shoppers guide to thrifting

Now-a-days its becoming harder and harder to be original when it comes to how you dress. You go into a store, find that one item you really love, just to find out your best friend bought the same thing two days ago. You want to stand out and wear something that makes you feel good and will get you noticed but you end up looking like everyone else. So what do you do? That's where thrifting comes in. In a thrift store you can find trendy pieces, vintage pieces, one of a kind pieces and so much more. There are also thrift stores that cater to different markets. Some have a more vintage feel, others tend to be more trendy, and then there are some that are more like boutiques and carry higher end pieces. Its all about finding out what your personal style is and going from there. If you're like me, you enjoy keeping up with trends but you like to add your own personal touch. Thrift stores allow you to do just that by providing you with a multitude of options from jewelry and purses, to hats and shoes, as well as clothing; and theres something for everyone!

So where should you start? Find a local thrift store in your area (my favorites are Everything Goes on Staten Island, and Buffalo Exchange in the Village) gather up some shopping buddies, and go at it. Some things you want to keep in mind while thrifting is that most of these clothes have been worn before. If a garment is stained, chances are its been that way for a while and the stain is there to stay. However, if, for example, you're buying a pair of jeans to turn into cutoff shorts, a stain on the leg (knee or below) isn't a big deal since you'd be cutting that off anyway, and you might be able to get a discount on it too (score!). Things like big, visible stains and yellowing under the armpits should be definite deal breakers, for obvious reasons. Another thing to keep in mind when buying thrifted clothing is the smells. Fabrics like polyester tend to retain and create body odor so make sure to read labels and, of course, give the garment a whiff. If it smells like it was the only article of clothing the previous owner wore, you should probably pass. Musty smells like that of moth balls can be easily removed with some Febreze or a gentle wash. You can also stick your thrifted clothes in a bin with some cotton balls doused in your favorite sent, and let them sit over night. Make sure the cotton balls aren't touching the clothes to avoid stains. Most thrift stores have a no return or exchange policy so you want to make sure you try everything on before you buy.

Along with thrift stores, there are consignment stores. At a consignment store, you can bring your old, gently used clothing and sell them for cash or a store credit. This works really well if you're an avid shopper, like myself, and need to free up some closet space before you buy more things. Keep in mind most consignment stores are looking to buy in season, up to date pieces. Make sure there are no stains or rips in the garments and that they're not retaining any less than lovely smells.

If you're the kind of person who prefers online shopping, there are online thrift and consignment stores just waiting for your business. They're just like regular thrift and consignment stores, except you can shop in the comfort of your own home. The one problem I find with online thrifting is it's harder to get a real feel of the garment. You can't try it on or check for stains and smells, but if you're willing to take the risk, go for it.

Okay, so now that you've read this and acquired all the knowledge on thrifting I could give, get up and get out there, and find yourself that one thing you've been missing! Happy thrifting :)

My top thrifting spots:

1. Everything Goes - 140 Bay street, Staten Island NY, 718 273 7139
2. Monkey Girlz Treasures - 565 Manor Road, Staten Island NY, 718 981 0706
3. Two Timer Boutique - 1755 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY, 718 477 100 (consignment store!)
4. Buffalo Exchange - 332 E, 11th st, New York, NY, 212 260 9340 (consignment store!)
5. No Relation Vintage - 204 First Avenue, New York, NY, 212 228 5201

My top online thrifting spots:

1. Plaidgoat.com
2. Webthirftstore.com
3. NotNushop.com
4. Gone-tomorrow.com