A Guide to Thrifting as a Minimalist

I just began getting back into thrifting. I used to be a big bargain-hunter and thrift-shopper but had grown to lose interest. Within the last year or two my wardrobe has gone from a collection of colorful and (somewhat faddish) clothes to a closet of mostly neutrals and solid classic pieces. I find that purchasing less clothes and being more intentional about what items I select, I actually get more wear out of them in the long run and they inhabit my wardrobe longer. 

This mindset had, in a way, thrown thrifting out the window since most thrift stores carry lots of colorful, faddish, and low-quality clothing. I recently began missing that thrill of combing through crap and finding the perfect item for a dollar or two. I decided to go check out a couple favorite shops, one in particular, over the weekend since I had noticed on Facebook they were having a Veterans Day sale. Josh was kind enough to let me drag him along since it was date day. 

I made a bee-line for all the white, black, tan, and anything-else-resembling-non-color tops. My luck! That day they just happened to be buy-one-get-one-free! I ended up scoring 8 tops for $12 and they were all items that I see myself wearing over and over again. 

Fun fact: I have been wanting to grab a black turtleneck because they are making a fashion comeback and are such a classy addition to any wardrobe. I ended up purchasing a French Connection one that looked brand new. After leaving the thrift store we made a TJ Maxx run and I spotted an identical French Connection one there that brand new was $98! 

Here I am wearing one of the blouses I scored! Nice, classic, and good piece to have on hand that pairs well with any outfit. 

Here are a few tips on how to thrift like a minimalist (or an aspiring minimalist like me!)...

>Look for well-made name brands. There may be some clothes that I would never pay full-price for in a department store but I score for a buck or two and wear forever!

>Look for classic pieces that you can wear over and over again. Avoid purchasing items just because they are on sale and you may wear them once or twice. I always ask myself, "Do I like it or love it?"

>Check the item over before buying. Even if it's used I won't purchase something that has picks in it or looks like it's been through the ringer. Assess the situation. If something isn't too noticeable or looks like a spot will come out with a good washing than take a chance and get it. The blouse I am wearing in the photo above had several little marks and blemishes on it but once I carefully washed it and added a little bleach it came out as good as new! 

>Search for that piece that is different. Even though I love neutrals, I still have heart eyes for that unexpected design element in a piece of clothing. I love a good collar. Like this one....

Happy Thrifting!