Nothing makes me feel better than getting a good deal. Well maybe dog cuddles and sushi, but VERY little gets me more hyped than buying something with a major discount. And if you know me, you know I will not buy anything full price unless absolutely necessary.

Unfortunately, I haven’t been thrifting for quite some time. I was really on a roll at the end of 2020, but then my life was consumed by skiing (not complaining) and moving, and it’s just starting to open back up now that my move is done (updates to come … eventually).  As I was editing a video for YouTube this week, I noticed that I never posted my super awesome day of thrifting I experienced at Plato’s Closet, which was having a 90% off sale. Yes, you read that right. I got oodles of great clothing — some new with tags for less than $2 — and many sought-after brands, like Nike, American Eagle, and Lucky Brand. If you want to see my funky fresh finds, feel free to click on the video below. If you want to know my top five thrifting tips, scroll past the video, soak up the information, and then scroll back to watch (insert winky face here). 

Sara’s Cinco Savvy Shopping Tips

1. Set a Budget – Before even stepping foot in a thrift store, decide how much money you want to spend. This will help you stay on track with your financial goals, and will help limit how much you bring home. If you’re anything like me, you need to limit yourself because there’s no room in your closet!

2. Make a List — It’s super helpful to know what you’re looking for when going into a thrift store. This can help with your budget and will give you some peace when sifting through racks and racks of clothes. Thrift stores can be overwhelming!

3. Inspect Everything — I always inspect clothing before adding it to my cart, but then I pull my stuff to an uncrowded area of the store and re-inspect them for any stains, holes, or pulls I might have missed. Remember to look at all angles of the items you are thinking about buying: inside, outside, underneath, in pockets, etc. Nothing stinks more than coming home with a piece and then realizing there is a major problem with it. 

4. Make Outfits — If you’re like me, you probably have a few pieces in your closet that don’t quite match anything you currently own, but you know it could make a killer outfit if paired with something correctly. Make a note of those items and possible pieces you think may match them. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon exactly what you’re looking for. 

5. Donate — It’s sad to say that I just recently donated two bags io clothes, because my closet is still bursting at the seams. I recommend donating clothing as often as you can for a multitude of reasons. First, it will clear up some space for more clothes. Secondly, some stores offer discounts if you donate or sell them your clothes. Plato’s Closet in Middletown, NJ gives you a coupon when you sell to them and buy from them, and sometimes Goodwill will give you a coupon for your next shopping trip if you donate. Thirdly, donated clothes will hopefully find their way to someone in need or someone who can give them a new life! It’s a win-win for everyone. 

What’s your number one tip when it comes to thrifting or shopping for discounted items in general? Let me know in the comments below!