Watch CBS News

Nifty Thrifty Tips: 6 Ways To Be A Better Thrifter

(1) Thrift shopping to some can seem like a daunting and overwhelming task! And many people have the misconception that you have to dig to find deals! Not the case! By searching your area for a local thrift shop that is organized and coordinated by color, style of clothing or type of clothing will make shopping the racks a whole lot easier to navigate. And really the whole thrift shopping experience more pleasant! Keep in mind that there are many thrift stores out there that take a lot of pride in their stores, so don't let one bad apple spoil the whole bunch! Like Retrospect on South St, there are MANY thrift stores out there that value an organized and pleasant experience for their customers! That's Nifty!

(2) Get in those racks! If you're feeling a bit more confident when it comes to really diving into those thrift racks and bins to dig, go through everything that POPS to you because you never know what you can find! Allow that beautiful mind of yours to look at that rack or bin mountain as a gold diggers delight! Thrift stores are packed to the gils with endless possibilities and pieces with personality and even imported pasts, so keep your eyes peeled for designer pieces with pizazz, character, and POP ripe for the picking! That's Nifty!

(3) Have a theme in mind! When you're thrift shopping for a complete look and don't have time to dig around, having a piece of inspiration in mind can help you spot items within that theme and simplify your shopping experience! It will also get you excited! For example, are you going for a Western theme? You'll see that throughout the store items will start to POP with leather, fringe, and western details. It's amazing what you can bring to life in the racks when you have an idea of how you want to feel and look! So allow your imagination to run wild of what you want to look like, then take that vision and make it a reality! I was channeling a a cute Evil Knievel! That's Nifty!

(4) When thrifting make sure whatever you're buying fits! Investments are key when it comes to thrift shops. Even though you're not shelling out oodles of cash, these penny purchases should have long term wear! So be sure to POP in those dressing rooms and make sure whatever you buy is worth your hard earned cash, and fits like a glove! Keep in mind though, that a piece that doesn't necessarily fit you right away, could have potential! So don't stray away from an item you love before assessing if it could be tailored or altered to fit you perfect! That's Nifty!

(5) When a woman needs a treat with only pennies in her pocket, ladies get out there and thrift to find a darling dress that will last! Thrift stores are packed with a variety of dresses to satisfy any woman's style and size! Keep your eyes peeled for awesome prices, prints, patterns, and textures that POP! Thrift shops are perfect places to buy cheap without looking cheap for any occasion to be dressed up or down! That's Nifty!

(6) Most of the dresses you run into that are thrift, are vintage and were most likely handmade! Which means, you are most likely buying quality, handmade garments and pieces that are one of a kind! But buyers beware! Make sure to always inspect a garment for holes, loose beads, and loose seams to ensure your one of a kind piece is one that that will hold it's own for years to come! That's Nifty!

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue