YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Let’s talk about secondhand shopping

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Let’s talk about secondhand shopping https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 15 May 2026 08:43:37 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Penny on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1884248 Tue, 30 Jan 2018 14:27:20 +0000 Penny 1884248@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great thread. I try to treat shopping at my favorite consignment shop, which is fairly selective in its merchandise, just like shopping anywhere else: only buy what I truly love and need. Although I probably buy something only once every few months (and pop in almost every weekend during strolls in my neighborhood), I’ve found some wonderful treasures over the years. Anonymous on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1884106 Tue, 30 Jan 2018 01:03:53 +0000 Anonymous 1884106@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I do like second-hand shopping. It's fun to discover treasures for a fraction of their original price. I can often find my favorite labels, and colors that I'm in love with, but aren't available in the current season. We have a local thrift store that I visit a few times a year, and I've found a few favorite things. I've also found some great things on thredUp.com and I keep an eye out there for more. I like that I can heart things and then go back "shopping" later when I've had time to think them over and decide if I really need them. I've found the descriptions to be accurate when they say something is like new, and some things even still have the tags which is nice. Caveats: <ul> <li>Sometimes I buy something I love, and then I get it home and notice a flaw. Usually it's not fatal, but even when it is, it's usually around $6.00 so I don't feel too badly about it. I've definitely regretted things I didn't buy far more than things I did.  My goal this year is to really take time to inspect things better before purchasing them. </li> <li>And I rarely have much luck if I'm looking for something specific. That requires a lot of patience as it may take months (or longer) for something that fits that particular need to show up. It's more of a place to browse and find a nice surprise.</li> </ul> Honestly, second-hand shopping has saved our budget over the past year. I've gone down a size every month or so, and have had to replace everything in my closet a few times over. I just had a terrible time justifying paying full-price for something that I would only be able to wear for a few weeks. I've also been able to experiment with different looks without losing too much money on styles that just didn't quite work out for me in the end (as several others mentioned). As far as the ethics go, I have to admit I like the thought of things being worn out before they're discarded. I think I inherited it from my grandmother, who used clothing until it was worn out, then made quilts out of the bits that were still good cloth, and cleaning rags from the bits that weren't. I don't take it quite that far, but she definitely rubbed off on me. And for the ick factor, I definitely wash everything, but like others have said, I grew up wearing the most amazing hand-me-downs, so I'm not really bothered wearing things that someone has worn before. Except underwear and swimsuits. I definitely draw the line there. Katerina on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1884022 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 21:11:39 +0000 Katerina 1884022@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I really like shopping second hand, mostly to find fun and quirky accessories. I have been shopping second hand my entire adult life. Style wise, I love the mix of new and old and I am truly happy about outfits which contain some element of fun. Such fun items come often from second hand shops - brooches, scarves, handbags, gloves etc. I also love pieces which have some history and some narrative, a nostalgic, romantic vibe. It appeals to me. And I love the hunt. I do not mind that the shops often are not so well organized and one has to search through piles of stuff to find the hidden treasures. I actually find it very therapeutic. I enjoy going to second hand shops sometimes on the weekend, dive in, and "the world no longer exists" :-) We have also a couple of great consignment shops in the neighbourhood, which are very enjoyable and carry more high end brands. I have not been shopping second hand online though - it is not the same thing to me.       As has been discussed on the Forum already, the quality of items has generally been declining for various reasons, and it is difficult to find the quality at mid-price range which has been common for 20 or more years ago. This is another reason which makes second hand finds often soo exciting. Well, I could go on and on about the pros, but they have already been mentioned. As for the "ick factor" - I do not buy things which I cannot clean directly when I get home. Exceptionally, I get dry clean only-things - and they go directly to the dry cleaners'. These have to be real finds though, so the cleaning cost will be worth it.         tulle on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883917 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 16:26:32 +0000 tulle 1883917@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sarah, you are singing my tune!  I have been a dedicated thrifter since my college days, for all the "pro" reasons you've listed.  The cons you mention don't bother me much: no matter how much "churning"  thrift-shopping results in (and it does create a lot of churn), it is still recycling, and it benefits charities while preventing boredom; the "ick" factor is quickly dealt with by an immediate laundering or trip to the cleaner.  There is one reason why many women may have not have the best luck at thrift shops: size.  Women on the shorter and/or slimmer side will find more merchandise that fits for the simple reasons that clothes shrink when cleaned, and women donate clothes they "grow out of".  I hunt in secondhand shops for both my daughters, the elder of whom is average height, size 2-6; the younger is taller and broad in the shoulders, with long legs and a large bust.  I have found countless beautiful vintage and designer pieces for elder daughter, but almost nothing for my younger girl:  the larger-sized items were scarce,  much more worn, and matronly looking. As my own body has thickened over time, I no longer find as much that suits me as I did when I was a slim petite.  But I still enjoy the hunt--very important!--and shop as much or more for vintage/antique housewares as I do for clothes.  One aspect of thrifting that is important for me (I mentioned it in another thread recently) is the opportunity it provides for inexpensive experimentation.  When a new trend interests me, I will often hunt for the elements of that look in a good secondhand shop.  (Because every fashion trend comes around, you may actually find more high-necked blouses, midi skirts, or wide silky pants there than in local department stores.) When I find pieces that create the trending silhouette, I take them home to test-wear for awhile. If I feel comfortable with them, I'll keep them and add more--old and new.  If I decide that the look is not for me, it's no big deal--I donate the stuff again. When shopping experimentally, it's important to look outside your usual section;  you may find the perfect oversized cashmere sweater in the Men's area, or a cropped blazer on the Boys' rack.  Finally, for Jenn and others who just can't get into the thrill of the hunt or past the "ick" factor, I would say, don't push yourself.  Thrifting is not everyone's cup of tea, but for those with plenty of time and an eye for quality, it can be extremely rewarding. Vildy on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883910 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 16:09:55 +0000 Vildy 1883910@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Almost all my clothing is thrifted. I do it because I can engineer my shopping experience.  The more I see of something, the more sated I become so I shun mall stores. Quality in fabric and construction appeals to me, though there are a surprising number of brands known for this whose garments are sorely deficient.  I can do my own alterations or refashions so I see the insides of garments underneath the lining. Plenty of brands that are very costly do not bother to finish their seams and leave them to fray.  Also, for preference, I would rather have interfacing that is not fused to the garment because that relates to how a garment molds to you and how it moves.  I might be happiest with unlimited funds where I could instruct my stylist to provide what I wanted but that isn't the case. I don't really like shopping - not for any body issues - I just like clothing. I am also time poor.  Plus, even with limiting my exposure to all the stimuli of the store experience, about an hour is plenty for me.  And that includes try on time.  I've chosen 3 main stores to shop at.  All are church thrifts. I like knowing that my money is going to the church for its needed upkeep or to its missions, even though I don't belong to any of those churches and am not Christian.  The prices are pretty much rock bottom.  Returns would be possible in the form of donating it back - which people who don't try on often do.  I don't do that because the stores I've chosen are small  and that affords me less distraction.  One, I go to weekly and I've been going for well over a decade and a half and there are many regulars and it's also a social experience as you get to know about people's lives. One practical drawback is the try on.  You have to use the ladies room, though depending on the garment, some stores do have a wall mirror or a place where you can see yourself reflected. :D   It can be almost impossible to find places to hang what you are about to try on or your own clothing. I end up placing my clothing right on the floor in one place. In another, I use the baby changing table.  What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, eh.   Sometimes the mirrors are like in a funhouse and the lighting is the worst possible. That also goes for the lighting in the store portion itself. Often, they are using the spaghetti bulbs with their yellowed lighting that is bad that you have to take what you think is a brown garment into the next room that does have some sunlight and where you are surprised to see that it's purple. The lighting can be so dim that I take reading glasses to try to be able to discover what the fabric content is or the size. I need a miner's headlamp. One odd thing I've found in thrifting is that I follow the trends to decide what I might want to experiment with and I believe that runway is about 3 years ahead of what most folks are finding and buying retail.  For some reason, people tend to donate items that have strong similarities to what is "new".  They give up on them exactly at the moment they have begun to have some fashion currency. I do have  a lot of clothing and a significant rate of "churn".  I guess I'm very fickle.  I've been successful at ebay shopping but I keep vowing to stop. It's much more expensive than the church thrifts plus even if I think I've found the most comfortable shirt in the world, as I did recently, and then buy up some multiples in a few other colors, pretty soon I see that, yes, but it's only that comfortable worn outside but tucked in it actually even looks uncomfortable because it doesn't blouse at all, not a millimeter.  So it's not The One Shirt To Rule Them All after all. :D  I'm finding I feel less and less of FOMO as the idea that some piece of clothing is so important isn't working for me.  For me, I think it's about how you wear your clothing, the energy you project.  The reverse of the old "When you look good, you feel good."   I think when you feel good - or even recall what it feels like to have felt good! - you look good.  And most people don't want to do a lot of thinking so if you project that you feel/look good, they're likely to pick up on that and agree. I'm in a psychological position where I think the most useful function of clothing is not to broadcast your "brand"  - what you want people to think about you - but to approximate what people you want to join are wearing.  I got this idea from one of Edith Head's books and it makes total sense to me. At the same time, I don't often need to do that and tend to think of clothing cinematically, as perhaps a romantic and adventurous protagonist.  So when I try something on, in that cramped, ill lit space with the distorted mirror, what I see in my mind's eye is myself striding across a wide screen. Sara L. on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883909 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 16:08:54 +0000 Sara L. 1883909@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I enjoy thrifting if I'm not looking for something specific.  I try to keep my needs really general - such as looking for dresses.  The thrift store I go to most often is organized by color and type, not size.  I don't have a problem with the ick factor for clothes because I wash them as soon as I get home, but I can't get past the ick factor when it comes to shoes.  I only go every few months when my sister is in town so I don't have quite the same FOMO problem.  Now I go even less often because a bunch of ladies in my neighborhood host a clothing exchange twice a year and I always end up with a pile of new clothes that reduces my need to shop for something new (to me).  I also enjoy thrifting because I can try out new trends or colors for a low cost.  If the item doesn't work out for me, I don't feel bad that I spent a bunch of money. Anonymous on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883886 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 14:53:21 +0000 Anonymous 1883886@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I need to amend my knit comment. Shevia is right. Do look/feel the sweaters. I ignored them at thrift stores until I started looking for 100% wool for my aunt to felt for her projects. I found some great sweaters for myself but really needed to ignore size tags. Jaime on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883876 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 14:26:05 +0000 Jaime 1883876@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I had to come back to this thread and read more carefully! A few thoughts: Regarding the ick factor, and I certainly don't mean to contradict what I said before, but I suggest you clean or disinfect everything you buy second hand, even NWT or with dry cleaning labels. At least in the store where I worked, all the clothes were piled together before they got to the racks.  Regarding churn, I took in tons of stuff that was all wrong for me when I started. That is why YLF has been invaluable to help me understand what works and does not, which applies to all fashion old and new. And of course, I still do make mistakes, which I sell or give away. Regarding Angie's post today about buying for summer, even at retail we often need to buy out of season.  Regarding knits, it does depend on how good your stores are, but some of my hardiest and best knits are second hand vintage cashmere. I have learned tons from this thread, thanks for starting it Sarah! Meredith on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883865 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 13:15:00 +0000 Meredith 1883865@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have always liked secondhand shopping. When I was young I was drawn in by the chance to find quirky things, in my 20s I liked the quantity I could buy. Now in my mid 30s I’m more aware of the ethical issues (both human and animal) and also appreciate the ability to buy better quality at a lower price. I still enjoy the thrill of the hunt, but I don’t always have time for it, especially in-person. Almost all of my secondhand shopping is online these days. I’m also mindful that I do not want all of my clothes to me used. I don’t have an ideal ratio, though. Practical strategies: Look for something fairly specific. Brands, colors, styles (narrows down search terms, helps minimize random purchases). New, like new, or excellent condition Seller accepts returns Honestly assess if the item deserves to be in my closet and return or donate immediately if it does not. Very occasionally I will see one of Angie’s ensables and buy a thrifted piece to try out the look. Fun thread Suzanimal on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883857 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 12:20:39 +0000 Suzanimal 1883857@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Shevia Great website! Bookmarked. LaPed on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883849 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 11:36:12 +0000 LaPed 1883849@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ For me, I'm also finding that I'd rather pay a little more for an item with a generous return policy than a little less for a final-sale item. I can't say that I come out ahead money-wise with this strategy, but I do end up with a lot less chaff in my closet. I have to be especially careful with eBay and other online venues. When you're only paying ~$10 for something, you'll be loathe to spend $10 to ship it back if it doesn't meet your expectations. I have had some luck getting price adjustments and partial/whole refunds from eBay and Etsy sellers when the item doesn't match the description in terms of colour, size, quality, whatever. Sarah, regarding when I've "checked" or exhausted my secondhand options: I keep a brainstorm list of things I would like to find, as well as a list of things I'm not allowed to buy. I put an asterisk next to anything that would be useful immediately, to remind myself I should try to find before the season is over. For me, at the moment, it's solid-colour knit layering tops -- lighter than a sweater, more substantial than a tee. I have dismal luck with knits when shopping secondhand, so most likely I'll end up purchasing these new. Also, I have very specific colours in mind, as these would be outfit-completers, so retail may be my most efficient option. I also need to replace my favourite black jeans and hope to find one pair of light wash jeans for spring. I have plenty of pants, and I often have success with thrifted jeans, so these I'm willing to wait for. I'll continue to check Etsy and Ebay, and I will have one cruise through the stores where I have consignment accounts (one has a great vintage denim section). Living far away from everything, I've really had to tamp down my FOMO, but I tell myself that thrifting is all karma anyway. I *should* be able to find something over the next 2-3 months. If I don't find anything by April, I will probably start looking at Madewell, etc, but there is little guarantee, with jeans, that I'll have better luck buying new anyway. Style Fan on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883841 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 11:06:39 +0000 Style Fan 1883841@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have had limited success in consignment stores.  I have noticed that consignment stores in larger urban centers have a better selection and I am more likely to find something that works for me.   My biggest successes have been handbags and other accessories.  I have bought designer handbags, jewellery and scarves in consignment stores.  I found a store that "specializes in designer bags" near me in Florida.  I check that one out a few times during my stay in Florida. Anonymous on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883831 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 10:21:46 +0000 Anonymous 1883831@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm coming back to this to start taking notes.  There is so much helpful information here.  I admit being limited to the Good Will and there have been compromises.  Those compromises usually occur when I find something of such good quality that I have to own it .... even it if a little off.  I am resolving to stop that this minute.   Anonymous on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping/page/2#post-1883802 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 06:05:12 +0000 Anonymous 1883802@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Shevia, you make an excellent point. All clothing should be cleaned whether bought new or used. The used stuff can hold up very well. It has already found it's true size and probably will not shrink. My DSIL wears large sizes (16-18 and higher now) and has bought nearly her whole wardrobe thrifting for years, including loungewear and pj's and robes. She also has found beautiful expensive yarns to knit and much more. Her whole Christmas tree is stunning and thrifted, including the tree itself. Jenni NZ on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883799 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 05:37:04 +0000 Jenni NZ 1883799@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Sarah, and also Shevia cos I read your blog last week and really liked it. I have gone through cycles in my life of second-hand shopping and not. My whole childhood was spent wearing many hand-me-downs from cousins, but I did also get two new outfits at least every year. Mum was careful and thrifty while also proud, and she had good taste. When all us cousins grew up we continued to hand down clothes through our kids- only the best ones, nothing worn out. It was surprising that when my husband saw us doing this, he said wow we never did this- and yet his family was poorer than mine. However, his Mum was a very good sewer and mine only a good mender. That may have affected it. The youngest cousin said she found it hard. I can see that- she had at least 3 older girl cousins on our side and one older sister! When I grew up I "op-shopped" ( charity shops are "opportunity" shops here) through university until I was earning and then bought new for years until I had my own children. That took me back to second-hand for a while for financial reasons as children grow fast! In recent years after weight gain I bought new again until I had too many clothes. Now I have settled at my higher weight I'm venturing into those stores again. Have only bought one top last year but what a success! It helped to have quite a specific wish ( patterned with coral in) and no expectations. I like the idea ethically and will try again some time. Jaime on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883788 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 03:43:39 +0000 Jaime 1883788@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh my, this is one of my favorite topics. Regarding the ick factor, I actually blogged about it: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://retakestyle.com/2018/01/10/but-what-about/">https://retakestyle.com/2018/01/10/but-what-about/</a> (Sorry for the self promotion, but this was exactly on point.) Anyway, briefly, please bear in mind that the clothes you buy in stores are covered with chemicals that preserve them from place of manufacture to store front - particularly big global brands. Clean clothes from the thrift store are healthier than retail clothes in many cases. Anyway, most thrift stores sort their clothes and anything obviously dirty and gross never gets to the selling floor (of course there are exceptions, but also at retail). Regarding finding the right stuff - it does take patience and discipline and the ability to find zen in rejection (thanks for the shout out Sarah), but things are so much easier now that there are online consignment stores like the RealReal, Poshmark, etc.  Oh dear, I am in danger of going on and on. At this point most of my outfits are at least 80% second hand. I do recommend online second hand shopping for a more disciplined approach if you are interested in second hand shopping for ethical or economic reasons.  Suzanimal on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883784 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 03:26:42 +0000 Suzanimal 1883784@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sarah I started carrying the notebook with sizes and measurements because of my kids and husband. I have two teenage sons who'd rather  have a root canal than shop for clothes and a husband who will occasionally humor me but his allergies prevent him from spending too much time in the store. With my notebook and measuring tape, I can keep my eyes open for them too. This is going to sound horribly cheap but I also keep track of 50% off days in my notebook. Goodwill, for example, runs a different color tag every week and they change it on Sunday. I went every Sunday for a month to get the order and now, when I see something I want, I check to see when it's going to be half off. I use that more for holiday decor than anything. I make cookie platters for Christmas and when I was thrifting one day it dawned on me that I could give people cookies on beautiful platter instead of Dollar Tree garbage that looks terrible and ends up in the trash. So, all year long, I check the Christmas stuff for platter and cookie jars and then I check my book to see when it's going 1/2 off and I can get it for 2 or 3 dollars. For reference, I don't recall losing out on one single platter or cookie jar that caught my eye. I managed to give out beautiful Fitz and Floyd, Pfaltzgraff, and Lenox cookie platters and a few adorable cookie jars all for just a few dollars more than the Dollar Tree junk. Totally worth it. Suzanimal on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883780 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 02:57:06 +0000 Suzanimal 1883780@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Joy Great tips! Barbara Diane Quality plus sizes are near impossible to find in good condition. My SIL wears an 18 and I keep an eye out for her all the time. I'm lucky if I find one nice thing a year.  Windchime Great point! If it's not something you would consider paying full price for, it's a negatory.  ---- After I read this thread I got to thinking about my trip to the thrift outlet and that beautiful cashmere coat. I wonder what would've happened to it if no one spotted it? A landfill? That's just heartbreaking to me.  SarahD8 on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883771 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 02:30:24 +0000 SarahD8 1883771@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks, all -- I got wrapped up in another project this afternoon but I have enjoyed reading through the rest of this great discussion just now. Great point made by several people that the feasibility of secondhand shopping depends on what is locally available -- absolutely.  I'm interested to see that there are more secondhand shoppers on the forum than I had realized. And also that several people have moved away from secondhand shopping because of issues around "churn," addictive nature of the hunt, and settling for not-quite-right items because they are cheap. I"m sort of relieved that I'm not the only one who has encountered these pitfalls. Joy, your tips are great and Windchime I like your ground rules.  Laura that's an interesting question about whether I wear or enjoy secondhand items more than items bought retail. I need to think more about that. There is definitely a high joy factor in wearing something *exactly right* that is secondhand. But greater than any other *exactly right* thing? I'm honestly not sure. Suzanimal, I really need to start carrying a measuring tape when I go thrifting! I meant to do that last time and forgot. Being honest, I should probably make a "you are not allowed to buy" list as well as a list of wardrobe holes. :-) Oh, I thought of another challenge with thrift shopping! It basically forces you to impulse-purchase, since an item may well be gone (or not find-able) if you leave it and come back the next day or what have you. On the one hand, that can really hone your skills at picking out what's right (and as Liz V. mentions, just move along without dithering if it's not). On the other hand, it's hard to avoid those it's-cheap-let's-give-it-a-bash goggles....I think I am better at this than I used to be, though not perfect. Kathie on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883765 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 01:57:41 +0000 Kathie 1883765@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great thread! Thanks for starting- A dear friend of mine is an avid op shopper, but, she moved back to Australia from the US, and I changed coasts. She had a knack for shopping for other people, so, at one point, nearly 50% of my work wardrobe was from thrift stores, because shopping with her was almost as efficient as shopping retail. Then again, I was benefiting from her love of the hunt, and knowledge of which places were most likely to have what we wanted, which certainly saved me a lot of time. I would love to have more thrifted pieces, but don’t much enjoy hunting for clothes on my own. I have bought a few items from a high end consignment store near me, which is easier, since the sales associates are great, and they’re very picky about what they take. I’d certainly like to have more “re-used” pieces, because I appreciate the ethics of it. Windchime on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883760 Mon, 29 Jan 2018 01:36:59 +0000 Windchime 1883760@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I used to do a lot more secondhand clothing shopping than I do now. I found myself settling too often--I'd buy things because they were inexpensive that were okay but not fab.I eventually worked out my own ground rules for secondhand shopping: 1. If I wouldn't pay full price for it, I don't buy it. 2. If it needs any type of alteration, I don't buy it. (I am so not a seamstress.) 3. If I need a specific item within a short timeframe--i.e. a red top--I don't look in secondhand stores--it's not a good use of time. My best experiences are when I approach secondhand shopping like a treasure hunt--I'll just enjoy the looking through the store, and if I find something great for pennies on the dollar, that's a bonus. Barbara Diane on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883730 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:29:10 +0000 Barbara Diane 1883730@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I thrifted a lot of wine glasses and some bowls, and some jewelry, but finding plus size clothing is rare, and it is always challenging to find any clothing that fits me close to correctly. I also buy jewelry at sample sales. I have 3 items of clothing thrifted/consignment, one I love, one is useful (a tank I wear as an under layer) , and one the smell never came out of, even though I asked and was told it would. Time to try spraying it with vodka. That said, I haven't invested a lot of time looking.  Anonymous on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883728 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:26:32 +0000 Anonymous 1883728@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi Sarah.  I really like the idea of second hand shopping ... especially for the quality aspects of it.  My problem is that in my neighborhood there are not that many good second hand locations.  I have tried several different outlets and only actually bought anything from Good Will.  I agree with Joy.  I found my best purchases in Good Wills located in really good neighborhoods.   Wouldn't it be sad if the trickle-down quality is finally hitting the second hand stores?   Anonymous on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883725 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:15:03 +0000 Anonymous 1883725@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hardly a day goes by that I am not wearing something second hand. I started when I needed to replace my entire wardrobe. My tips are: 1: ignore sizes. If you like it, try it on. Sizing is all over the place. In some places a size 8 is considered XS! Volunteers often put the stuff out and sizes can be subjective. 2: go in with a plan, like jeans 3: always check out the accessories. Look for leather, silk, brand names 4: thanks to Fabber Michelle, who is blind, go through the racks such as jeans by feel. It is the easiest way to find premium denim and nice fabrics. 5: go shopping wearing tights or leggings and a tank under easy-to-remove clothing, no jewelry to get caught on things, slip on shoes. This makes try ons easy and possible even in public. 6: ignore knits. Not worth looking through most of the time. 7: Most thrift stores are a great place to find woven shirts and black anything, especially pants. 8: go to thrift stores in or near the nicest neighborhoods. Often items are kept where they are donated Suzanimal on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883723 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:10:52 +0000 Suzanimal 1883723@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ SarahD8 said... Mac, YES re: quality. I went thrifting last week for the first time in a while — specifically looking for tops. Among the woven tops, I noticed a lot of standard button-down shirts (which I don’t wear much), and among the knits it was a lot of items that were pilled, stretched out, or otherwise just low quality. I wonder if the decline in quality that we’ve seen at retail is now starting to trickle down to thrift stores I think you're spot on there.  JAileen on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883721 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:06:51 +0000 JAileen 1883721@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I used to thrift a lot. I bought a lot of things that were almost good enough. When I would clean out my closet, I noticed nearly everything had been thrifted. Now that I am mostly buying new, I am apparently holding my purchases to a higher standard, and returning things that aren’t perfect. Suzanimal on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883720 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 23:02:53 +0000 Suzanimal 1883720@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'd guess 75% of my wardrobe is secondhand, 15% is handmade (by me or my mom), and 10% is new. I'm not including underwear in those numbers - they're all brand new, lol. Major ick factor there. O_o Almost all my accessories are secondhand and maybe 20% of my shoes.  I've been thrifting since I was a teenager and, as SarahD8 pointed out in her cons list, your wardrobe can get out of control. Mine did at one point. After cleaning out, I started carrying a little notebook with things I need, measurements, and a mini measuring tape. I also have notes about things I don't need but know I'm a sucker for (*ahem*white pants) as a warning not to buy them. It's easy to get out of control unless you're picky and very disciplined.  I must be in a good area for thrifting because I regularly find very nice high end clothes. Heck, I picked up a Coach handbag (like new) and a cashmere coat (perfect condition) last week at the thrift store OUTLET - that's were they send the things that didn't sell at the retail thrift store locations and that stuff is priced to move - .25 - 2.50.  Accessories are where thrift stores shine for me. I love vintage handbags and you just can't walk into any store and buy them. I've also found some neat jewelry, belts (I've found new Coach belts and even a cool Tony Llama), and sunglasses. As a matter of fact, my teenage son found himself a pair of Ray Bans a few months ago - they were 1.00. Even my husband will go occasionally but he's allergic to cats and mold and can only manage a quick walk through without taking Benedryl. He found a brand new golf club (driver) for 4.00 - it retails for a few hundred. Now, his golf group has started scouring thrift stores for clubs, lol. LaPed on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883719 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 22:53:00 +0000 LaPed 1883719@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sal -- it is remarkable how much more girls clothing there is compared to boys clothing! DS wears a lot of girls clothes, in part because they run slimmer and fit him better, and partly because he emphatically prefers light colours (tropical brights, pastels, neons) and the girls options are more to his liking for now. I wish boys clothes weren't all dark neutrals and camo. Laura (rhubarbgirl) on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883717 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 22:46:17 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1883717@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I used to thrift a lot, but have cut down to almost zero for a few reasons; churn and the addictive nature of the 'hunt' were definitely key on that list. It was easier for me to justify buying something ok but not great if it was cheap and more eco friendly. But did I need most of it? No. Did I wear my thrifted items more or enjoy them more? No. I would happily buy secondhand/consignment for a higher end brand if I were looking for something in particular. But I'm a tall cusp size so for most clothes buying new is much faster and easier. Sal on "Let’s talk about secondhand shopping" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/let%e2%80%99s-talk-about-secondhand-shopping#post-1883697 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 21:20:54 +0000 Sal 1883697@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sarah - I think you summed up the pros and cons very well. I buy second hand - but probably only 3-4 pieces a year. In 2017- three jackets, one dress, and a necklace. Jackets have been the most successful for me-also two handbags online. I do buy crockery, cutlery, home items such as table cloths, and lots of books, all second hand at various sources. I have about three places I call in at if I am in the area- I used to do a lot more but I have changed. Funnily enough while my sons do wear hand me downs sometimes- I had no luck finding them in shops- the girls selections were much larger. I find it best for statement pieces- my faux fur coat, my blue floral jacket- I scan the racks for patterns and fabrics that appeal. I do have a jacket I bought at the start of summer which I must show to the forum as I am wondering if it was a good buy or not- yet to wear as it is too hot at the moment.