I’ve lengthy been a lover of thrifting and antiquing—for residence decor, furnishings, clothes, children’ toys, and extra. Whereas the method might take slightly longer, I feel it’s effectively 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 searching for.
It’s so useful to have an inventory written down earlier than you step foot in a thrift or vintage retailer. This may show you how to keep targeted on the issues that may truly add worth to your life, and never get distracted by issues that may solely develop into additional litter. 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 contemplate a Pinterest board a “checklist” as effectively, so if you happen to’re a visible individual, that may give you the results you want too.
2. Do a lap.
Take a fast lap across the sections the place you’re most certainly to search out what’s in your checklist. 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 slightly deeper. Take slightly 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 really 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 checklist for some time, or is it one thing I solely simply now determined I wished?
I’ve come throughout so many nice issues whereas thrifting and antiquing, however lots of them have been objects I didn’t really need in the intervening time. Whereas the cheaper price factors at many of those shops could also be tempting, the truth 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 truly use.
4. Be constant.
The extra usually 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 usually wish to go to a couple shops in a single afternoon to profit from my time. On different events, I solely have fifteen minutes to spare, so I’ll bop by a retailer and shortly browse one particular part. Both means, consistency is vital in terms of 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 checklist if you discover them—you may’t rush the method. Thrifting and antiquing are in regards to the hunt. For me, it’s about discovering distinctive items that may deliver character and character to my residence or wardrobe. And after I discover one thing I really like, it’s effectively definitely worth the effort and time which will have gone into the search.
6. Carry one thing to donate if you go.
For those who’re going to a thrift retailer that accepts donations, profit from your journey and convey one thing (or a few issues) to donate if you go.
7. Don’t go on an empty abdomen.
Final however definitely not least: For those who may also 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 it will likely be a way more gratifying expertise if you happen to’re satiated beforehand. Belief me on this.
These are just a few of my favourite native spots to go to:
- Goodwill: Roseville, White Bear Lake, Arden Hills
- Savers: Columbia Heights, Woodbury
- Missouri Mouse Antiques
- Artwork & Structure
- H&B Gallery Antiques
Kate is the founding father of Wit & Delight. She is at present studying the right way to play tennis and is without end testing the boundaries of her inventive muscle. Comply with her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
