Shopping may be therapy for many of us girls, but college students unfortunately can’t always afford the latest threads. Thrifting can be a fun alternative -- it definitely beats window shopping!

Thrifting is an art form; it takes patience and vision -- but it can add a chic, vintage touch to any wardrobe. When you go, you aren''t always sure what you’re looking for, so you have to stay open to different possibilities. If you’re a regular bargain hunter and hate that awful moment of running into someone with the same top you just purchased, thrifting may be worth the effort.

What to know when hitting the racks:

1. If you’re a first time thrifter, go with someone who knows the ropes. It will make the experience easier and more enjoyable. If you go by yourself the first time, you may become somewhat overwhelmed and feel bombarded by all the clothes.

2. If you live in a smaller city, there may be good finds in your area, but going to a major city may be more effective -- a larger chest means a greater treasure.

3. Keep your shopping standards high. It can be easy to get distracted by all the bold prints and pretty colors. Go in with some type of plan and budget so that you aren’t just throwing everything into your cart.

4. Get creative; the wonderful thing about thrifting is the inexpensive pricing. So, there isn’t much harm in altering your purchases to make them your own.


5. Don’t leave without checking out the accessories. They can be the difference between a “cute” outfit and a “fabulous” outfit. The retro accessories found in a thrift store are sure to make your outfit stand out.

6. For checkout, bring a reusable bag and cash as many thrift stores give out thin plastic bags and only take cash. Bringing these two items will save you a lot trouble.

7. Sanitize! You don’t know where these items have been. Be sure to keep your hands clean, whether you choose to keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your bag or run to the bathroom is up to you. Also, be sure to wash any garments you purchase before wearing them.

8. A great rule of thumb as a shopper in general is to give away one item once you purchase something new. This will keep your closet from overflowing.

Now that you have a new perspective on budget-friendly shopping, you can still keep next weekend’s therapeutic shopping date, but ditch the malls for a stop at your local thrift shop.

By: Kiarra Sylvester | Images: Source

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