Let me lend you a hand on how to shop secondhand. 

So, I hear you want to learn how to thrift. You’re tired of visiting different stores, only to find overpriced items that don’t match your style. You’re at a crossroads between spending more on ethically sourced clothing (which sometimes still isn’t even sourced ethically) or paying less for items that may lack quality or sustainable materials. 

I have a solution: thrifting. It offers a different experience with a wider range of options. You’ll find vintage clothing, upcycled pieces and pre-loved high-end items. Plus, by supporting small businesses instead of larger corporations that capitalize on donated items, you help the environment by reducing clothing waste and look fabulous doing it! 

If you’re interested in thrifting but don’t know where to start, I have some great tips to share. I have been thrifting for over two years, and I’ve discovered beautiful pieces while making friends who also share a love of shopping secondhand. 

Wear a Thin Base Layer So You Can Try Things On.

As someone who feels anxious about germs and getting sick, I was initially apprehensive about trying on clothes while thrifting. However, I’ve come to realize that there’s nothing to fear! I  recommend wearing a base layer, like a compression long-sleeve top and a pair of thin leggings (or pants) so you can try on items without feeling bulky.

I usually bring some sanitizer to use after trying on outfits. I also make sure those layers cover my skin completely, so the clothes don’t come into direct contact with me. And, of course, I always take a shower afterward!

Trying clothes on can be a bit stressful, but it significantly increases your chances of finding items that fit you properly and pair well with your wardrobe. Before I started trying things on, I often ended up with items that were too small since I was just eyeballing based on size.  Keep in mind that brands have different sizing charts, so it’s not always helpful to buy something based on it being your usual size. 

I also bought a mini tape measure to check my waist and pant length so I have more accurate descriptions of what I am looking for.

Attend Thrifting Events

There are plenty of thrifting events in Saskatoon during the Summer and Fall. At these events, you can find small businesses selling upcycled clothing, handmade accessories, vintage wear and more.

Attending these events gives you access to a variety of items you may not typically find in bigger thrift stores. This is because sometimes they come from the owners of the small businesses themselves! I especially love discovering items that were upcycled or modified, as they offer a unique look and are crafted with creativity and love. 

I recommend going early for these events. This way, you can browse all the vendors at your leisure and enjoy a wider selection of items.

Budget

While thrifting can be a more affordable option, it is still possible to overspend and buy things you don’t need or can’t afford. It’s easy to get carried away with all the beautiful finds. For instance, I almost spent $200 on this vintage leather jacket even though I had already exceeded my thrifting budget for that day.

I advise creating a budget plan before you go thrifting. Outline how much you are willing to spend on different categories of clothing.

For example, if you budget $100 for thrifting, you might assign $20 for accessories, $50 for pants and $30 for tops. This approach will help you avoid overspending and ensure you buy items you only really like.

Buy Things That Fit Your Style.

Choosing what to buy while thrift shopping can be a challenge. With so many options and statement pieces, it’s easy to end up with items you won’t wear often. For example, I don’t wear skirts, so if I buy a bunch of them while thrifting, I might only wear them once or twice. 

I encourage you to build a capsule wardrobe. This includes pieces that work well together, colours you enjoy wearing and items that can be layered for any season. Before I go thrifting, I like to look into my closet and see what I want more of.  A good example for me is denim jeans. I am always looking for different cuts, brands and materials, especially since it can be hard to find my size. On the other hand, I don’t need to thrift jackets or coats because I already have enough. 

It’s important to recognize that one goal of thrifting is to reduce fashion waste, so being mindful of what you buy is essential. Statement pieces (outfits different from your usual style) can be fun, but buying too many may be wasteful since you’re unlikely to wear them often or style them with other pieces. 

If you’re looking to change your style or incorporate new pieces into your closet, consider donating items you do not need anymore to your friends, family or charities (for example, ISSAC is accepting donations for warm winter wear!)

You can also upcycle clothing that you wish to modify. I like turning some of my dresses into skirts or turning turtle necks into regular long-sleeve tops.

Check What Material and Read Washing Instructions Before Buying.

Every item has different washing instructions. Some clothes are more delicate and require handwashing, dry cleaning or may not be washable at all. 

Vintage pieces, in particular, are often made with delicate fibres and need to be hand-washed and air-dried to maintain their quality. Before making a purchase, it’s helpful to read the label and make sure it’s something you can properly care for, so it lasts for a long time.

I personally struggle with maintaining hand wash-only items, so I refrain from buying them.

Go Thrifting with Someone.

Thrifting is always fun when you’re with someone! They can hold your bag while you try things on, help you look for cool finds and keep you from making unnecessary purchases.

I like going thrifting with a close friend of mine. We know each other’s styles and can point out things that we think would look great on each other. 

Thrifting can also be a great way to meet new people. I remember attending a thrifting event recently where I was trying to layer a corset on a top, and everyone in the shop convinced me to get the corset cause they thought I layered it so well!

It also makes for great conversations. I’ve made friends by simply complimenting their outfits and discovering it was thrifted.

Practice Thrifting Etiquette.

When thrifting, it’s important to  be respectful of others around you.

Be mindful and polite. If someone is looking at an item you’re interested in, indicate your interest but wait until they’ve decided whether or not they want to purchase it.

Remember to wait your turn in the fitting rooms (or the makeshift drapes they put around) . If you make eye contact with someone who seems unsure about how they look in something and you think they look great, feel free to give a compliment!

Also, remember to bring cash. Most vendors will only accept cash or Interac transfer. In case they can’t process transfers or your phone dies, having cash on hand is always a good idea.

Make Connections with Vendors.

During seasons without thrifting events, vendors often post new stock on their Instagram or advertise sales.

When I find a vendor with unique pieces that match my style, I ask for their social media handles so I can follow them. Some of my personal favourites include @karissapreloved (for vintage clothing), @whimsywares (for handmade accessories) and @purpleastervintage (for upcycled clothing and Métis-owned items).

For larger corporations like Value Village and Plato’s Closet, I recommend joining their mailing lists to stay updated on sales. Additionally, donating quality items can earn you coupons for future purchases. 

A Final Word

Thrifting is a sustainable option that helps reduce fashion waste, supports ethical sourcing of materials, discourages brands from producing overpriced low-quality clothes and promotes small businesses while saving you money. 

If you’re new to thrifting, don’t worry about not knowing what to do. Just be patient, and you’ll figure it out! From one thrifting girlie to another, good luck and happy thrifting!