hibiscus: Do’s and Don’ts of thrift-ing.

Yes I love chasing down those sales and such but a spot of thrift shopping never goes astray either.

In fact I picked up this gorgeous Blue Moon dress from the lovely Gary Pepper Girl herself at the Terrigal Markets a few weeks ago. You bet I wanted to snap up everything she had to offer (the boy may have had to make another trip to the ATM…*cheeky monkey emoji*) but there’re a few do’s and don’ts of thrift shopping that keeps the experience cheap and effective:

Do some homework: Though you’ve probably already done this! Cuts, colours and fabrics that are currently trending will be all over them fashion blogs/Instagram/Pinterest. Use these sources as inspo to bag and wear a unique bargain find just like the cool kids.

Do dress the part: Wearing leggings/skinny jeans/anything tight fitting to the markets is a winner. You’ll get to quickly try on a piece over your outfit without wasting time in a queue for a flimsy looking portable change room. Pro tip: if you know your measurements you could also add a flexible measuring/sewing tape to you handbag arsenal to double check the sizing of a garment.

Don’t let the bargain seduce you: This goes for both retail and market/thrift shopping. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of a bargain but if the item doesn’t add value to your wardrobe/home/life and align with your style then it’s just dead weight.

Don’t fool yourself: If you know your way around a sewing machine I salute you. Have a tailor on speed dial? Fantastic. I, however, have neither of these things. What I do have is quite the collection of ‘not quite right’ impulse buy items that have unfortunately remained that way. Not so thrifty. So if it needs any major adjustments then nope, it’s not coming home with me.

Do leave alone sometimes: Shopping at the markets/thrift stores is truly a treasure hunt and part of the whole fun is in that search. So, if you don’t find something that you truly love or adds value, it’s all good! You had fun! And guess what? You have an excuse to do it all again.

Happy thrifting treasure hunters!

T xo