I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, children’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take a bit longer, I believe it’s nicely value the additional time and power. There are such a lot of high-quality, distinctive items to be discovered secondhand.
Over time, I’ve developed a go-to course of that helps me navigate the world of thrifting and antiquing with extra ease and intention.
Right this moment I’m sharing my suggestions for buying at thrift and vintage shops.
1. Know what you’re in search of.
It’s so useful to have an inventory written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This can aid you keep targeted on the issues that may really add worth to your life and never get distracted by issues that may solely develop into additional muddle. In my most up-to-date thrifting journey, I used to be particularly trying to find a brand new pair of denims and a white button-up shirt, which helped me hone in my search within the retailer. I take into account a Pinterest board a “listing” as nicely, so if you happen to’re a visible particular person, which may give you the results you want too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re almost definitely to search out what’s in your listing. Add issues to your cart that catch your consideration. Then return to sure aisles the place you suppose you would possibly discover one thing actually particular and wish to dig a bit deeper. Take a bit extra time on this re-examination, as a result of typically you would possibly miss issues on the primary lap.
3. Edit ruthlessly.
When you’ve made your means by the shop, edit down your cart and return something to the cabinets that you just don’t actually want/need. Ask your self a few questions and get particular in your solutions.
- The place would I show or retailer this merchandise in my residence?
- If it’s a bit of clothes, how would this match into my on a regular basis outfits?
- Has this merchandise been on my listing for some time or is it one thing I solely simply now determined I needed?
I’ve come throughout so many nice issues whereas thrifting and antiquing, however a lot of them have been objects I didn’t really need for the time being. Whereas the lower cost factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the fact is that if you happen to don’t edit down what goes in your cart, you’ll most likely find yourself with some stuff you don’t really use.
4. Be constant.
The extra repeatedly you go thrifting or antiquing, the higher you’ll develop into at navigating every retailer and narrowing in on the items you actually wish to deliver residence. I typically prefer to go to a couple shops in a single afternoon to take advantage of my time. On different events, I solely have fifteen minutes to spare, so I’ll bop by a retailer and rapidly browse one particular part. Both means, consistency is vital with regards to thrift and vintage buying.
5. Settle for the method.
Generally after I go to a thrift or vintage retailer, I don’t discover something to deliver residence. That’s okay. You’ll discover the objects in your listing while you discover them—you possibly can’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are concerning the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that may deliver persona and character to my residence or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I really like, it’s nicely well worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Deliver one thing to donate while you go.
Should you’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, take advantage of your journey and convey one thing (or a few issues) to donate while you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however actually not least: Should you might help it, by no means go thrifting or antiquing on an empty abdomen (or thirsty, for that matter). Sifting by aisles and aisles of products requires power and will probably be a way more fulfilling expertise if you happen to’re satiated beforehand. Belief me on this.
These are a number of of my favourite native spots to go to:
- Goodwill: Roseville, White Bear Lake, Arden Hills
- Savers: Columbia Heights, Woodbury
- Missouri Mouse Antiques
- Artwork & Structure
Kate is at present studying to play the Ukulele, a lot to the despair of her husband, children, and canine. Observe her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
