The Flexable Rules!

Thrifting is something that is near and dear to our hearts, but we know that for some who have never even visited a local thrift shop it can be a daunting task. It’s intimidating to walk into a seemingly jumbled area full of second-hand goodies that you don’t even know exactly what you could possibly do with it all, worry no more! You can follow some simple and flexible rules to help enhance your shopping experience.

1. Set a budget!

• It’s important to know your limit! Being a glamour girl on a budget isn’t easy and trust us we know what it’s like to have eyes bigger than your coin purse. A set budget keeps you in line and on task, forcing you to focus about the real need verses the champagne dreams.
• On the other hand, and this is the only exception to this rule, if you absolutely have to have that one large ticket item then by all means get it, but that is the only thing you buy, and the rest is in the wash for that specific trip.

2. Survey the playing field.

• In this case you want to do a walk around before selecting items, get a feel for the layout of your local store. Once you’ve done that you’ll know where to go for whatever items you are looking for in the future.
• If you already know your store then it doesn’t hurt to look around for the new talent; Thrift store’s stock is constantly changing, what was there yesterday, might not be there today so keep an eye out.

3. Pace yourself.

• Don’t rush! It’s good to plan your day around this particular shopping trip, because if you rush you might miss something delightful.
• Thrift stores are a treasure trove, you don’t mow through it. If you move too fast you’ll miss out on that incredible vintage dress, or that awesome hat hiding in the corner.

4. Be aware of your measurements.

• Knowing what your size is in various measurements and conversions is one of the most important keys to shopping in general. Vintage sizes are very different from the way we size our clothing today. People love to say “Oh Marilyn Monroe was a size 12.” She was in what we consider vintage sizing. In modern sizes she fits in a smaller size. It is extremely important whenever you are buying vintage, to know what your measurements are, and that the conversion equates to your size now.
• Here is a measurement guide of what you should measure. Always know your measurements!

 

7. Make friends with your Tailor.

• If there is one thing you should spend your hard earned cash on it’s a good tailor. Tailors are becoming fewer and fewer over the years, it’s becoming a lost art! Start a good relationship with them. Be charming and friendly and they’ll take extra good care of your garment, it’s like any good relationship. Once you find a good one never let them go!

Here’s an example from one of Lolita’s experiences:

...“So I visited a tailor who charged me an insane amount of money to replace a couple of zippers. But one day I had a dress delivered that was too big in the chest and waist. Having no tailor, I went to a bridal shop that offered alterations. She charged me a decent amount and I was very pleased. I figured bridal tailors deal with picky brides, and that they’d do a good job and she did"...

This is just an option if you don’t have a tailor handy, look to bridal shops! 

       8. Find a good dry cleaner.

• Most vintage pieces won’t be washing machine safe (of course there are exceptions) because of this you might have to send things out. We also suggest not skimping on price, for a good dry cleaner. They take care of your precious garments and know to handle them with care; this is another relationship that needs to be nurtured.
• However, if you don’t have the money for a dry cleaner, there are dry cleaning kits sold at stores like Target. I certainly have to do that as I don’t have the scratch for dry cleaners all the time.

9. Find a good shoe repairman (Cobbler).

• This is a tough one not every place has one. It’s a disappearing profession, but if you can find one again like the Dry Cleaner & Tailor, it’s a relationship that helps the vintage world. They not only repair and dye shoes, they can repair belts and purses at times!
• The cobbler is the ace, so you won’t have to throw away shoes you love because the sole is worn out. It also helps when you don’t have a lot of money to replace them, up-keep is key when you’re on a budget so things won’t fall apart on you.

10. Have fun with it.

• Above all else have fun, thrifting is a really pleasurable activity for the vintage girl. You’ll find unique items that have history, it’s a way for you to connect with your love for vintage and make things relevant again.
• Bring your friends and make a game of it, share your finds and after it’s all said and done sit in a café and gab about the day.