How to Make Sure You Don't Get Stuck at the Thrift Store

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

24 Jan 2009 05:56 PM

If you are familiar with my blogs, you know that I do a lot of thrift store shopping. And you also know that January is a favorite time of my to do thrift store shopping. We hit the Goodwill today in between other errands. Unfortunately for us, the store was completely crowded, with people everywhere fighting over everything. This is not the way we like to shop. With the economy the way it is, many new people are discovering shopping at thrift stores.

When you are in this environment, it is easy to get into the "grab it quick" mentality. When this happens, you can sometimes get stuck with buying things that you don't want. Now while someone else may think that a shirt is a great bargain at $3.50, and it can be, to me if I am paying that I still think that it better be worth it.

Here are my tips on how to make sure you don't get stuck at the thrift store. Take any potential purchases to a different part of the store to examine them for hidden stains. Sometimes the light can vary, and what seemed pristine turns out to be damaged. I usually head for a spot close to the door where the natural light comes in. I spotted stains in an otherwise beautiful skirt this way only last week.

Try things on whenever you can. Not only do different manufacturers fit differently, but clothes that have been washed many times can shrink. I found a great designer skirt with tags on it in my size, but when I tried it on, I found it was absolutely huge on me.

Don't buy something just because it is a bargain. Even if you find a Vera Wang wedding dress for only $3, there is no point in purchasing it if you aren't getting married (unless you know someone who is that would appreciate it or you own your own wedding resale business). If you find something that you wouldn't even wear on Halloween, don't buy it no matter how little it costs or how many other people are eyeing it up.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Frugal Upscale Clothing

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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dms1987 (21) 25 Jan 2009 02:52 PM

Great tips, thank you!!

Mary Ann Romans (26876) 25 Jan 2009 05:34 PM

You are very welcome. Let me know if you find something great.