As a drycleaner I would like you to all be extremely careful about assuming stains and marks will come out because there is a very very high probability that they won't.Second hand clothes are sold clean so if a mark is there it has been through that process and possibly also been there a long time and oxidised. We had many customers get upset when told this and we are EXTREMELY good and knowledgable about what works. If it is linen or cotton and white, then yes - bleach (unless it was turmeric, then only a pair of scissors will remove the stain)
Modern eco-friendly methods of dry cleaning won't remove bed bugs either. Either find a drycleaner using petroleum methods or freeze your clothes for a couple of weeks (in a bag) unless you can wash them in hot water. Wash once and then wash a week later.
As a long-time thrifting fanatic, online thrift shopping doesn't make sense to me. The whole joy of the experience is savoring the colors and textures of the racks of clothing, not to mention the ambience of the shop or being able to try the garments on right then and there. Staring at a computer screen doesn't provide that aesthetic pleasure. Am I the only one who feels this way?
Been thrift shopping since I was a teenager. New Retail shops overwhelm me, but thrifting keeps me focused. One thing I alway do when thrifting is to fully hang any item (usually a top) that has slipped off (usually from a careless customer). When I’m done with a rack it looks better than when I arrived, PLUS I believe it gives me good-thrifting karma because usually I find great items. Thank you for your content and preaching mindful shopping no matter the platform.
I do this too! As a general rule in life when I go places I try to leave it just a little bit better than when I got there, whether it’s an Airbnb or a thrift shop or wherever ☺️ it does feel like good karma 🤍
Yep. Decades ago, a bookshop owner joked that she wanted to hire me because I straightened all of the magazines on their racks. With me, I think it stems partly from altruism and partly from OCD. Lol.
Another big tip that I use a lot is shopping while wearing layers, and especially having a fitted base layer. In Toronto, a lot of the larger thrift shops got rid of their change rooms during COVID and added a return policy. While this gives you the option to try at home and then bring things back, my thrifting style is typically to pull a lot of items in the spirit of openmindedness and try them on to help me cull the contenders. Having on leggings and a tank or a tight romper is really helpful for trying things on when there isn't a fitting room available!
Thank you so much for admitting that finding great pieces of clothing that look/fit wonderfully on you and are of high quality is actually a time consuming process! Even shopping new is time consuming if you're being particular and trying to make long lasting choices.
I feel very fortunate that a local Goodwill seems to have at least one lady my exact same size who always donates designer clothes and shoes, so I’m always finding full outfits when I go in. That being said, it took a lot of hunting for me to find the right store. My advice is to also scout out the Goodwills, Miracle Hills, Salvation Army, or what ever chain of thrift stores is in your state, and make sure they are located in or very close to a wealthy part of town. It is amazing what those in the upper income bracket will toss in donation bins.
I absolutely agree! I don't live in the best suburb and when I go to the Goodwill in my city, I find nothing but trash. It took me a while to figure out that it was because of the city I live in. Lol
I thrift shop for the sheer fun of it. It's the only time I specifically look for designer names. If I find a hidden treasure, great! If I don't. I'll be back next week.
As a volunteer at a local charity/ thrift shop I would ask people to be realistic about the condition of items, shabby, washed up, torn, poor quality and those requiring lot of mending and should be bagged separately for rags. Make sure what you donate is clean- we don't have washing facilities so have to send anything dirty for rags whatever the label or value. Also carry out any small mending, volunteers often don't have the skills or time for mending. Finally, try to give seasonally appropriately as many shops don't have much space to store out of season stuff.
I found a DKNY black velvet dress with buttons up the front hanging in a tree at a garage sale. $4. Have had that dress/coat for more than ten years. It’s one of the few pieces I own that I have professionally cleaned.
I love second hand shopping, yes overconsumption is an issue. I have become much more strict in that area now. Best buy, Mulberry brand, beautiful black leather cross body bag in the softest buttery leather, in mint condition, $8 (Australian). I think it is actually a man bag but it is the absolute best for me being petite. I use it so much, cost per wear 0 😊 I priced it online and it's valued at over $500.00 second hand! What a find 🖤
I have four Goodwill shops within 25 minutes of my house. I’ve purchased several designer items, including household items, but my favorite items to buy are winter clothes, merino wool and cashmere sweaters and coats. Earlier today I bought a really cool oversized black bomber jacket ($6.99) which is trending this fall/winter season. I truly appreciate the peoples that make these donations and I hope others appreciate my donations just the same. TFS!
I sell vintage clothes online and will very occasionally get a comment about why I'm charging so much for "used clothes". So thank you so much for pointing out the difference between curated vintage shops and thrift shops. I usually respond with "If you've ever gone thrifting, imagine the time it takes for you to just happen upon an actual vintage item. Imagine the time I've spend stocking a whole shop of those." (Not to mention the time cleaning, repairing, steaming, photographing, posting online...)
YES. I run a preloved clothing store for an animal rescue charity. I am told the same thing all the time. I also work in a paid job. So it's really insulting when I spend my days off work running this store to be told $10 for a vintage top is too expensive
Sorry IMO nobody should be charging a price for used clothing that it would cost to purchase the same item brand new. Especially places like Goodwill and Salvation Army that receive free donations and are supposed to be helping folks. I've actually stopped donating to them for that reason.
@@76482 I purchased a vintage Australian made long wool coat for $80 because I know the quality is far better than the cheap and nasty coats being sold in fast fashion retail stores. Even places like Cue and Country Road do not have the same level of quality as the coat I have purchased. When I unpack donations I basically discard anything from kmart or big w because it is unsalable because of the poor quality. I get a lot of comments asking me where I got my coat from (ebay purchase from a family raising funds to pay for their daughter's medical bills for cerebral palsy) and they are always disappointed they can never find a quality coat like it in the shops today
@@76482 they help folks with the money they make, too, Not just by selling cheaper. But yes, selling cheap brands like h&m for the same price as sold new is, of course, strange
I love it and actually am quiet addicted. I find good stuff all the time. I have over the years found some unbelievable treasures. most of my home is second hand. If i take something home and it doesnt suit i just re donate. its the bomb.
I loved the vinegar/baking soda tip. I hate that "thrift store" smell that is an amalgem of everyone's old detergent and mildew. The fit thing is so tricky sometimes. I really wanted a vintage wedding dress and I went to every antique/vintage store in town and tried on dozens of dresses. Nothing fit. Luckily one of the vintage sellers also made new dresses from vintage patterns and I hired her to make my dream dress. I think it's really important to develop a relationship with second hand stores and sellers online. I have done this over the years and people appreciate it and look things out for me and hold them, they give me discounts or shipping deals. I think it's definitely mutually beneficial because when I find something great and get complements I always tell people where I got it and tag the sellers if I wear them on insta.
I have a rule to try on one thing that I think I won’t like or wouldn’t normally grab. I have often been surprised that the item becomes a favorite. I do try to be very selective because it’s easy to come home with items due to price that don’t work. It’s a balancing act for sure!
All good points that I have discovered by experience as I have shopped 2nd hand way before it became a trend! My own main problem with 2nd hand shopping is really overconsumption and I realized that with the reflections, restrictions and self discovery brought by the pandemy!! and my main pet peave is the overpricing in 2nd hand big box store like Value Village! If one reason to shop 2nd hand is to deter us from slow fashion: don't sell cheap brands like H&M almost the same price as new! also overpricing means it goes back to the landfill as customers cannot afford it!
yes! I stopped shopping at Value World in the Detroit area for this very reason. Also, their stores are cramped and the stores are dirty. Salvation Army is much more enjoyable to shop
VV was found guilty of leading consumers to believe they are a nonprofit organization, when in fact they are not. I find it disgraceful and greedy to see many FF labels priced at $10-$25 in our Canadian stores.
I never look for clothes without my list of items I wish to bring into my wardrobe. The list is rarely more than 3 or 4 items and I describe each item specifically (colour, cut, length, fabric preference etc) so I don’t end up with an item that doesn’t actually fit the bill.
These past few months of videos from Portugal and Croatia have been so so good!! Your content is always so engaging and thought provoking, the scenery has been oh so beautiful 😻 I’ve been secondhand shopping for 35 years so have many beautiful things in a carefully curated wardrobe. Your points on fabric care are an absolute must when considering the longevity of our wardrobe. I worked for the 2 largest home laundry companies in the world, fabric care is key to how long our garments will last. Gentle cycles now mimic hand wash, you can choose your load type, water temp, spin speed, etc. Quality natural fibres will last many years with proper laundry care and storage. Ciao Bella 🇭🇷
Sound advice, Alyssa! I’m a long-term fan of secondhand shopping. Finding the gem in among the clutter of things that don’t fit or suit me makes it more of a treasure hunt, but you need to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince. I try on lots of stuff but am prepared that it might look ghastly. The giggles at the misfits are part of the fun. As much as I can, I return clothing I try on to the racks myself because most op shops here are staffed by volunteers. I have learned to check everything carefully for stains or tears, inside and out. If I am not confident I can repair or clean it, I don’t risk the purchase. I am a confident sewer, which helps, but I avoid buying anything that might be a ‘project’. My main criteria: fabric quality, fit and whether I would still buy the item if it were new and full price.
You are SO right about over consumption in the Second Hand shopping world!! I caught myself headed down that road just a few years ago and luckily realized it fairly quickly. You can't simply ask yourself "Would I have ever paid full price for this?" Simply because it's a phenomenal once in a lifetime price...that's not a reason to purchase. Ending up with things you don't LOVE just because they were incredibly priced..over consumption. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and am always inspired by your content!
Alyssa, This was such a very excellent video. I am a senior 🇨🇦 lady who raised her family on thrift shopping almost exclusively. Our family of 6 learned very early( in utero) to appreciate twice loved clothes, toys, furnishings, vehicles. Our way of living thru necessity and therefore thru choice. Second hand shopping does take much more time, patience and ingenuity to capitalize on the not quite perfect or find a way to adapt and make it work. It’s part of the price you pay for the reduced $s. It is most often the way to better quality items even if they’ve been previously owned by someone else. Thank you from this Canadian lady for naming the game in this type of shopping. It is also So So satisfying when you score something you’ve been looking for, fo some time. Makes one appreciate our things much more than being able to spend our labour in a retail outlet of first choice.
Wil check out True Earth. I am retired for a year now and I am enjoying ur tips and monthly creative closet ventures. I bought a lovely second hand Armani suit jacket in palest baby blue. I kept trying it on at home and it felt “off”. Went to my tailor who noticed both sleeves had been altered but one arm was an inch shorter than the other. She fixed the problem for $33 and now the jacket is divine. Never give up
Another reason to follow you- I have used True Earth for several years now. I took an Indian food oil stain out of a white Tshirt. I disolved a sheet and rubbed it on. I went to an Aussie equivalent- for only 1 month- then I came back- This months supply arrived yesterday. I have been Second hand, Army supply and car booting since the 70's - I have some amazing treasures. Love your channel
Whenever I'm not working and have the time to actually shop, some of the best things I find are not my true size. I've found that the smallest size I can fit into is a medium, but for the most part, I like to go through the size large and extra-large racks. Thank you for these very helpful tips, Alyssa! :)
I LOVE your point about "picturing the garment in your closet"!! It is a FUN treasure hunt to thrift!! My closet is carefully curated so that makes thrift shopping SO much easier.
The major part of my closet comes from second hand, I love making second hand bargains 🤩. I shop at finer second hand stores with on trend clothes. So I find trousers, dresses, shirts and blouses, even shoes. And they are in really good shape and expensive brand for a cheap price 😊
@@AlyssaBeltempo It's so fun to own and wear clothes from odd brands that you can't find in the usual chain stores. The only problem is to find the right size. 😏 I recently bought a pair of shorts that are a bit to big for me. I'll try to alter them in the back hem.
I agree with all of your tips. It takes time and patience to thrift, but oh the thrill when you find something great! I love that I rarely go a day when I look at what I’m wearing and at least one item is thrifted.
My tip: being able to try on clothes is rare. So I try to wear something that allows me to try on in a corner-like a tank that I can keep on while checking if the blouse fits, or a legging that would fit under a pair of slacks, or a skirt that I could shimmy slacks under or pull off when it’s under a dress I’ve tried. On my last foray, that enabled me to see if that Red dress really is what I want to wear next Christmas (yes) or if the dresses my girlfriend snagged for me looked amazing on me as well as on the hanger (no! Super unflattering). I found the perfect shirt dress I had been looking for, fit great over my tank like I had in mind, and two long sweaters in just my colors. Having my color palate in my head meant I got a ton of mileage out of those three pieces but wearing base clothes kept me from bad buys.
I really enjoy and look forward to watching your videos. I have a FT job, but am also a part-time reseller. What really blew my mind this past year was visiting the Goodwill outlets in the states. To see the massive amount of bins filled to the brim (and seemingly bottomless-every day really shook me. It is unconscionable, the amount of goods Americans consume.) I am finding great pleasure in caring for (and often, restoring) many of the items that end up there. There is something wonderfully loving in thrifting-in knowing that someone else may have lived in the dress…the coat…the shoes I’m wearing (or that I will sell to someone else). It brings me so much joy to find beautiful (or fun!) items for other women. I really haven’t any interest in buying anything new. But back to you-thank you for your presence on UA-cam. I look forward to watching the archives! ❤️🙏🏼
Super helpful as I embark on my 2nd hand prep for winter clothes well ahead of the season. I will be hearing your voice in the back of my head as I sift through the racks. Thank you for promoting True Earth. I’m a big fan and it’s a brilliant solution for traveling as well. I stay in many Airbnbs with laundry units and it’s a super easy way to pack your own laundry detergent!
I carry a measuring tape. Take your measurements then compare your measurements to whatever garment you’re considering. It will give you a general idea I came up with that when stores weren’t allowing you to try pieces on.
I agree that you have to be patient. I am working on a specific capsule wardrobe and I go to the Goodwill every Sunday and hunt. I’ve gotten some really cute things. I’m not so worried about designer stuff so I can be more opened to whatever I find but I love thrift shopping. Great video and great tips!
Hello Alyssa !! Thank you...Love True Earth too !! I'm curious if you can give advise on outfits while at home. Sometimes I don't want to be in a fabulously curated outfit , as in " all dressed up and no where to go", but I still want to be dressed but comfy . Croatia looks wonderful! I never imagined it would be so mediterranean !
Ah it is amazing!! I would highly recommend a visit ... that's a good question ... for at home I think it depends on the season but a rotation of solid basics (for you) like long comfy tops over faux leather leggings or simple sundress in the summer ...
Adictive if we don’t focus. Overconsumption is overconsumption. For me now I would rather not go, because I. Can’t help the impulse of a good find . I take pauses if I feel like loosing track
Yes, a measuring tape is a must. As someone with a long torso I need to do this with any tops. As someone who used to volunteer at an op shop, yes items are hidden. Staff may be told they can only buy things that are still there at the end of the day. So they may put items they have their eyes on in odd places. Look in the men's section. Active tops from here may fit tall girls better (also works for new t-shirts too).
I actually love the idea of a well curated selection, where the secondhand items are refurbised and dry cleaned for you! Where have you been in such a shop and could you share the experience?
LOVE True Earth! I love the way my clothes feel so fresh and clean, and there are no big drippy plastic jugs or pods to deal with. They ship to the US, where I live. Can't wait to try the new fragrance!
Second hand shopping is fun! It relaxes me, but I need to stay away from the blazer jacket section (my weakness) as can’t fit any more in my closet!! Lately It’s been fun going to those antique malls with different booths, found beautiful antique hankies (always carry them in my bag) and a few pearl necklaces💜thx for the great tips
Thanks so much Alyssa! I recently got into second hand shopping, it's like an adventure every time :) About sizing, I find that a lot of items don't even have a size label because it's been cut off - I don't blame the previous owners, I tend to cut off all of mine too (the inner tags towards the bottom of the garment) - but I'm getting better at estimating whether the item fits me or not :)
Just as a sample of how sizing goes. I bought a pure silk skirt and top in 1982 from Nordstroms in size 14. I lent it to a friend who today wears a size 6/8 and it fits her perfectly. So much for vanity. lOL
Neck check! Half waist band of trousers and skirts that fits your neck will likely fit your body. Easy way to “know” if something is way too small. Always good content and great advice. Especially the sizing info. Thanks
You can also measure the rise on a pair of jeans or pants that fit well then measure the same length from your wrist or fingertip or bottom of your thumb to your elbow and use your arm when in-store.
My fave items at second hand stores are purses. Managed to find European made leather purses a few times in next to mint condition. Not high end brand names but unique designs.
Me too. A great find for a low price liberates dopamine, we can easily feel happy and it’s adictive for sure lol . I am trying to pause thrifting today, priorizing my closet for a while
Very nice that so many of you find clothes in their size, this never actually happens to me, so my best tip : you should be able to sew or know a good tailor 🧵🪡 Spray clothes with high-proof alcohol (for example vodka), helps very well against odors too.
I have second hand shopped for years. As a larger sized person and because of fit issues, I never second hand shop for clothes online - accessories and bags yes. Plus I am a bargain hunter so I also usually avoid curated vintage shops. In my area best things to look for are wool/ merino and coats/ jackets. Another tip I think is important is don't ignore the men's section. And I agree with other commenters that most stains are there to stay no matter what you do: general grubbiness can be dealt with but not stains. Another is check the lining of any lined garments - there can be wear and tears and it's not that cheap or easy to replace. Also that repair or tailoring you think you will do or pay for: it mostly just won't end up happening. And actively cycle second hand buys out - they should be provisional in your wardrobe til they prove themselves in wear.
In LOVE with Tru Earth! It’s also made in Canada! Love this video! I had some nice clothes growing up because my mom could sew, but she also taught me to shop resale/yard sale, etc. If a garment came close to fitting, she could taylor it!
A huge percentage of my weardrobe is thrifted. I think if we treasure each item we have in our weardrobe and resist the urge to overconsume that is key. I am also an avid seamstress and have rescued more than one piece that is damaged to the point of being unbearable. My favorite new Summer skirt was purchased as a set. The top a button down was wonderful from the getgo but the poor skirt had the elastic waist literally half torn off. I cut off the top, inserted new elastic and made the unflattering length now just above the knee. I now just love this and hope to keep it in my closet for years to come. Your tips were all wonderful. Thanks again for your great content.
Love your channel, you do it so well. Can you elaborate around your vinegar baking soda mixture? I often struggle to get the smell of "old lady" out of my second hand clothes. I use vodka water mixture but it never completely removes the smell. Thanks.
I totally agree that it takes persistence, which is the actual best part if you love to thrift. Everyone always asks me why I’m always able to find such great things when they can’t, and I always answer…you have to go out, a lot. And you have to be open minded, and never expect to find the exact thing you are looking for the first time out. And I’ve honestly found that the more I thrift, the more success I have. You train yourself to hone in on what’s good, and it’s not so overwhelming as it is when you don’t go out regularly
I go to the same thrift store everyday…. You don’t always find things….and most of what you find boils down to donations and the timing at which it was put out on the floor. But it is really fun when you do find great things😃
Thanks so much for all your tips.i just love to second hand shop.op shopping here in Australia, I go often with some girlfriends the other day I picked up 2 black dresses 2 tops a soft black cardigan just love them all.and the best part of second hand shopping you can donate it back when you've had enough of the peace cos you haven't paid the earth for it.🤣
as a long time thrifter too, i can see you gave excellent advice. some of it is just experience that people learn over time, if you can save them from things like over-consumption, great! the tip on consistancy should be pretty easy for the beginner thrifter as well. keeping one's mind open, whilst still taking everything in, is a harder trick, but once mastered, totally interesting and fulfilling.
You might want to soak new second-hand purchases in two separate baths of baking soda (alkaline) and then vinegar (acid). Combining them neutralizes their pHs and cancels out their benefits.
Baking soda is alkaline and Vinegar is acid so putting them together may reduce the effectiveness of your natural cleaning product. If I am mistaken plz correct me
Another great video. I have better luck with thrift stores and Poshmark than consignment. I was extremely disappointed on my last two visits to (two different) consignment stores. It was slim pickings in the small section where most items were actually size medium. Things were much better in the “old days” or ten to twenty years ago. Quality isn’t that great at consignment either unless you’re looking for cowboy boots or you go to high end designer consignment boutiques and even then everything is too large and the focus is more on bags than clothing. I’m seeing a lot of resellers when shopping. From watching a few of their UA-cam channels it seems they’re going for the larger sizes. Maybe that’s why I’m finding more things in my size at thrift stores. And why friends who wear larger sizes often walk out empty handed. It’s also probably why you don’t see new with tags much anymore. I don’t have a problem with selling something from your own closet but reselling as a business is ruining it for those who thrift to clothe ourselves or our families.
My rule with second hand shopping is "would I pay full price for this?" - if it doesn't look good enough to pass that test, I'll pass. It's a trap to buy something just because it's a bargain because I won't end up wearing it 😊.
Unless you're only interested in dresses and skirts, I also recommend looking in the men's section. I have found some extremely excellent knitwear and jeans by doing this, and it seems as though jumpers (aka sweaters) in the men's section are more likely to be made from natural materials.
Found a great sheepskin tan jacket that i had wanted for about 20yrs!! ☺ ok it did need a refresh but a day hanging outside and a spray with some light perfume!!!
💙💙💙 I really enjoy second hand shopping…my last purchase for €4 was a beautiful pair of white linen Fenn Wright Manson trousers…thank very much! Another tip is to go to charity shops in wealthy areas… I recently picked up a gorgeous white Versace belt, silver guess tote bag and fab silk scarf from a charity shop … Also it’s so surprising what people donate, so many items don’t look like they’ve ever been worn/used …what fun it is having a rummage through 😄…. Thanks for another fab video 💙💙💙
Going to shops in wealthy areas doesn’t work if you’re shopping at chains like Value Village. Maybe they do some sorting centrally and distribute to individual stores. I’ve had better luck in the less wealthy areas. I’ve found terrific stuff while traveling to other cities. Different places, different tastes. Some places are at least a decade behind when it comes to what’s in fashion. When I moved to my current city I couldn’t believe what furniture people where putting out on the sidewalk on trash day. It would have been scooped up immediately in my former city because it was in good condition and solid wood. I picked up a few pieces - a vintage 50s floor lamp, waterfall vanity, nightstand and a plant stand. After a several weeks in quarantine outside in subzero temperatures I brought them inside and still have them almost a decade later. I even have regrets about things I didn’t pick up.
Great tips! And enjoying what the community has added to the tips list 😄 I love buying pre-owned items! I combine 'laser-focus' and 'open-mindedness in these ways: If I'm looking for a specific item (e.g. chunky, cropped, black, cotton cardigan, or wool denim jeans in mid wash.... [recent purchases 😆]) I will usually go online for the shopping, and save searches/ be patient until I can fill that wardrobe gap. When I go into acctual stores I keep the wish-list in mind, but like to be more open to 'come what may' and end up with unique, amazing things I would have never thought of searching for (hello vintage beautiful satin-lined angora beaded cardigan!) These add some unexpected fun to the wardrobe. BUT these items need to go with what's already in my closet and fit my closet 'story'.
Great tips. Maybe the laser Focus is especially necessary when shopping on the internet sites and well curated shops whereas the open-minded attitude is more necessary when going to Value Village, SallyAnn and such places. I have a lot of laundry detergent and dryer sheets that I will be using up but then I will definitely be trying Tru-Earth strips. Thank you as always for another great video.
I’ve tried one of the competitors to Tru-Earth and sure don’t miss hauling home jugs of laundry soap, even environmentally friendly refillable jugs of laundry soap. Why has it taken the industry so long?
I’ve thrifted my whole life and love it , I’m now a reseller online so I agree with you , takes time and patience for sure !!! My own closet has grown so much !! 🙊 especially from $1 days at my local thrift ! 🤦♀️ it’s a lot of work but I love this job 🤩 I’m half Croatian! So neat you are there ! Enjoy it all !! Always natural soap for the win !! 🏅
Yes it's patience! I worked in a thrift shop for 9 years. And it's not always there on the weekend you arrive. You have to know when stock goes out and also be lucky! Some things literally sell while it's in my hand as I put them out. Or something may sit there for weeks until the perfect person walks in the door. And unfortunately, some of the best things get stolen (no matter the price tag). So luck luck luck. Also be friendly to your store workers. I don't mean suck up and you'll get a discount.(you wont 😂) No, the workers will keep you in mind and walk you to the item they think belongs to you. Also be prepared to spend if it is a label and quality. Just because it's thrift doesn't mean cheap. So don't walk in on a high horse when a shop ask for a price because 10/10, 1 customer will be outraged with a price. It is later sold that day for that price.
I was telling my sister the other that I approach secondhand shopping like I'm renting the clothes. I get bored with my wardrobe easily and when I do, I go through everything and send stuff I have gotten bored with back to the thrift store.
With my sizing I almost never find anything nice that fits me in my area from thrifting. That said I find all the amazing frilly dresses for my toddler and they're expensive name brand ones for like $5 or less. My husband and I check the one that's super close every month or so. :3
I know in Edmonton in Canada. I don't know about the rest of it, but you cannot try clothes on at say value village and some of the goodwills too anymore since the pandemic. So what I do? I always wear something close fitting to value village and try stuff on over those clothes like leggings and a tight tank top, or bike shorts and a tight tank top. And even though I'm a little, what can I say? Risque looking lol at least I can try things on before I buy them. That's a really important part of thrifting for me, So if this helps anybody, you're welcome lol
I use a few drops of tea tree oil on a clean rag or make up remover pad and wipe all around the inside. Allow to air dry naturally. And of course never try on shoes in bare feet.
Could you share your vinegar-baking soda recipe for soaking clothes? My friend used that method and her clothes stayed looking new for years! When I tried it, I got white spots in my dark clothes. );
Great video! I've been thrift shopping since 1996 before it was popular. I've been going weekly for years to different stores. In that time I have recently seen fewer items with new tags, boutique sections of the store charging more for specific items, major price increases, and clothes that are more worn out or very out of style than in the past. It has made finding garments more difficult but not impossible. Now I need to feel content leaving with one thing or even nothing. I refuse to pay high prices at a thrift shop for something that's previously worn when I could buy something new for practically the same price. That said, I still enjoy the process and finding gems. One tip I have is that if I buy something that I feel is an experiment and not sure if it fits in my personal style or my body, I will wear it once and wash it and put it in the back of my closet, try it on with different outfits occasionally and wear it one more time if I'm unsure. That way if I decide to donate it it's barely used.
My tip is to frequent thrift stores near the wealthiest neighborhoods. Just yesterday we bought 8 cherry wood double-cane backed diningroom armchairs with spotless heavy gauge upholstery for $55. Plus I got a full shopping cart of designer name shoes, clothes and a wool herringbone coat for only another $74 🤗
Great tips. I strongly agree w your points about keeping clothes clean & in good shape. I want to pass on clothes bc of wearing it out, change in fit or style change not because I ruined it. I also ALWAYS encourage shopping the whole store. All sizes and genders. Im a small person and found a favorite wool sweater in the Mens section size L (I’m a Xs/S). And still consume mindfully. Its a great way to try styles out, but it is still consuming.
Thank you. I am not giving up on second hand shopping but VERY disappointed with Poshmark. Plus Poshmark always sides with the seller in a dispute. Something’s sellers do are: 1. Sell clothing that is much smaller than the label . 2. Sell clothes without disclosed stains. 3. Sell stuff that is threadbare, and low quality advertised as fashionista, influencer ware. 4. Sell heavily worn clothing advertised as “new with tags”. Buy local, in person at consignment shops instead of online whenever possible, especially with pants.
As a Ways really enjoyed your video…don’t know if you saw it but there was a piece in NYTimes about Thrift shopping era as being over…one point made was that with the advent of “fast fashion”, and changing purchasing habits
The available merchandise showing up in a many thrift venues is not well made, often contains environmentally unsound synthetic materials, and the increases in prices, means bargain days are over. Whether you agree or disagree with this analysis, one thing I would add… with the advent of “professional pickers“ who travel widely to source inventory for online stores there is often very little left for the weekend thrifter. I have encountered these “pickers” with carts full of brand name merchandise, (they shot by label rather than size) lined up at the register buying several hundred dollars worth of clothing at a time. In my 30+ years of thrift shopping, I’ve been finding less and less worth purchasing and notice “online” prices aren’t really bargains anymore either. I live in California where there tend to be many stores but would love to hear others experiences.
Another reason to not trust sizing is some clothing was tailored for the former owner. A friend of mine got excited finding an expensive brand of jeans in his “size” But when he tried them on at home they were tailored way too short for him to wear
An enjoyable video as always. I am curious, do you ever consider secondhand vintage jewellery, as this does not seem to be something you touch on much?
When you go, particularly something like a goodwill, wear a slim pair of bike shorts and a sports bra or tank so you can try on clothes outside a dressing room and not have to dress when you go back for more clothes. However, always bring the shoes that you want to wear with what you’re looking for.
I love the highly curated high end second hand shops because I am getting the great experience with the second hand shopping benefits for the earth. Had so much luck with these types of shops despite being a plus size buyer.
Bonjour Alyessa. Great tips and great video. Especially the vinegar and baking soda tip. Croatia looks sunny and beautiful. Our weather here is not very good yet. Lucky you.
great tips. I just recently discovered these laundry strips! They are so much better for travel, if you have access to doing laundry in a vacation rental. Or if you are going to sink wash your undies or delicates, you can just tear a tiny bit of the strip off and use that.
Excellent tips Alyssa, thanks. Just a piece of advice for you: dry you lovely linen black short inside out (especially when the south european sun is really up) and dont leave the garments for long under the sun in genereal otherwise get stiff. Un abbraccio dalla bella Italia.
I love thrift shopping. I grew up on it. When I was young (57 now) there was not much selection. The selection has exploded in the last 20 years! Here’s my top reasons I prefer thrift over new: Price!!! It’s a fraction of the cost. The Hunt- so much fun when you find that special unique item made just for you!! Selection- From every age group to every part of the world, all on a few racks. You learn your style: from color preference, to form, to material. Once you hone the skill, does not take hours looking (unless you want to on that day). You are able to look at an item and quickly determine if it’s right for you in every way. I do have a harder time buying for my husband but I’m getting better at that too.
I have to disagree that there was not much selection in the past. Thrifting took me through years of teaching in the 60s-70s-80s. During much of that time women teachers were expected to wear dresses and suits, NOT pants -until pantsuits came in. I had a nice wardrobe with a very low expenditure, because of a few good consignment and thrift shops. My daughters learned the lesson well.
Great tips. I have seen people over consume because things are cheap. I have to be careful because I tend to wonder if an item will still be there later-even if it’s not perfect. Keeping my current wardrobe in mind helps
Yes, I always ask myself how something will fit in with what I already have. If you buy the best quality you can afford or find, things that fit you and look good on you, it's going to last many years. I'm still wearing a cashmere pea jacket I bought in 1992. It still looks fantastic. The buttons needed changing and that brought it up to today's style. Had to repair a rip in the lining. Going strong!
I prefer to cruise to other continents & then travel for about a month or so at the destination. Cruise wear & travel wear don’t always coincide so I shop for the formal wear at thrift shops, tailor them & often leave them behind because I need to travel light at the end of the cruise. There has been times I get so many compliments on the clothing piece I will drag it around with me…but it truly is a win win.
As a drycleaner I would like you to all be extremely careful about assuming stains and marks will come out because there is a very very high probability that they won't.Second hand clothes are sold clean so if a mark is there it has been through that process and possibly also been there a long time and oxidised. We had many customers get upset when told this and we are EXTREMELY good and knowledgable about what works. If it is linen or cotton and white, then yes - bleach (unless it was turmeric, then only a pair of scissors will remove the stain)
Thankyou, learnt something today...😄
That's when it's time to add an applique :)
Modern eco-friendly methods of dry cleaning won't remove bed bugs either. Either find a drycleaner using petroleum methods or freeze your clothes for a couple of weeks (in a bag) unless you can wash them in hot water. Wash once and then wash a week later.
Second hand clothes are not sold clean lol.
@@HipChey As a general rule, no, they are not. I still would not trust that stains will come out though!
As a long-time thrifting fanatic, online thrift shopping doesn't make sense to me. The whole joy of the experience is savoring the colors and textures of the racks of clothing, not to mention the ambience of the shop or being able to try the garments on right then and there. Staring at a computer screen doesn't provide that aesthetic pleasure. Am I the only one who feels this way?
I agree! I sometimes buy used over Facebook marketplace, but I'm always scared it won't fit since I can't try it on.
I feel the exact same way as you. I love to touch the fabric, look at the color, and try it on right then and there.
IF it looks like something I'll love at a steal price then I don't care where it came from and will take my chances 😁
Totally agree
I totally agree with you, I want the whole experience...texture, feel, trying on, chit chat, experience ❤
Been thrift shopping since I was a teenager. New Retail shops overwhelm me, but thrifting keeps me focused.
One thing I alway do when thrifting is to fully hang any item (usually a top) that has slipped off (usually from a careless customer). When I’m done with a rack it looks better than when I arrived, PLUS I believe it gives me good-thrifting karma because usually I find great items.
Thank you for your content and preaching mindful shopping no matter the platform.
I do this too! As a general rule in life when I go places I try to leave it just a little bit better than when I got there, whether it’s an Airbnb or a thrift shop or wherever ☺️ it does feel like good karma 🤍
I do the same! 😁
I do the same and if I find separated matching items I put them back together!
I do this too!
Yep. Decades ago, a bookshop owner joked that she wanted to hire me because I straightened all of the magazines on their racks. With me, I think it stems partly from altruism and partly from OCD. Lol.
Another big tip that I use a lot is shopping while wearing layers, and especially having a fitted base layer. In Toronto, a lot of the larger thrift shops got rid of their change rooms during COVID and added a return policy. While this gives you the option to try at home and then bring things back, my thrifting style is typically to pull a lot of items in the spirit of openmindedness and try them on to help me cull the contenders. Having on leggings and a tank or a tight romper is really helpful for trying things on when there isn't a fitting room available!
Yup. I'm in Toronto too and it seems that many of us have just started trying stuff on wherever there's a mirror.
Me too bike shorts with a tank top, underneath. A circle skirt is also a good option for trying on bottoms. Your own private change room 🤣
I have thought of doing this but was afraid I would look like a weirdo. Might have to give it ago.
@suzanne farrington That sucks! 😢
@suzanne farrington It was probably because of COVID-19.
Thank you so much for admitting that finding great pieces of clothing that look/fit wonderfully on you and are of high quality is actually a time consuming process! Even shopping new is time consuming if you're being particular and trying to make long lasting choices.
Yes!! So time consuming! It's important!!
The overconsumption is really a trap of secondhand-shopping. Thanks for mentioning this point.
I feel very fortunate that a local Goodwill seems to have at least one lady my exact same size who always donates designer clothes and shoes, so I’m always finding full outfits when I go in. That being said, it took a lot of hunting for me to find the right store. My advice is to also scout out the Goodwills, Miracle Hills, Salvation Army, or what ever chain of thrift stores is in your state, and make sure they are located in or very close to a wealthy part of town. It is amazing what those in the upper income bracket will toss in donation bins.
I absolutely agree! I don't live in the best suburb and when I go to the Goodwill in my city, I find nothing but trash. It took me a while to figure out that it was because of the city I live in. Lol
I thrift shop for the sheer fun of it. It's the only time I specifically look for designer names. If I find a hidden treasure, great! If I don't. I'll be back next week.
Agreed!
As a volunteer at a local charity/ thrift shop I would ask people to be realistic about the condition of items, shabby, washed up, torn, poor quality and those requiring lot of mending and should be bagged separately for rags. Make sure what you donate is clean- we don't have washing facilities so have to send anything dirty for rags whatever the label or value. Also carry out any small mending, volunteers often don't have the skills or time for mending. Finally, try to give seasonally appropriately as many shops don't have much space to store out of season stuff.
I found a DKNY black velvet dress with buttons up the front hanging in a tree at a garage sale. $4. Have had that dress/coat for more than ten years. It’s one of the few pieces I own that I have professionally cleaned.
yesssss so good!
I love second hand shopping, yes overconsumption is an issue. I have become much more strict in that area now. Best buy, Mulberry brand, beautiful black leather cross body bag in the softest buttery leather, in mint condition, $8 (Australian). I think it is actually a man bag but it is the absolute best for me being petite. I use it so much, cost per wear 0 😊 I priced it online and it's valued at over $500.00 second hand! What a find 🖤
I have four Goodwill shops within 25 minutes of my house. I’ve purchased several designer items, including household items, but my favorite items to buy are winter clothes, merino wool and cashmere sweaters and coats. Earlier today I bought a really cool oversized black bomber jacket ($6.99) which is trending this fall/winter season. I truly appreciate the peoples that make these donations and I hope others appreciate my donations just the same. TFS!
I sell vintage clothes online and will very occasionally get a comment about why I'm charging so much for "used clothes". So thank you so much for pointing out the difference between curated vintage shops and thrift shops. I usually respond with "If you've ever gone thrifting, imagine the time it takes for you to just happen upon an actual vintage item. Imagine the time I've spend stocking a whole shop of those." (Not to mention the time cleaning, repairing, steaming, photographing, posting online...)
YES. I run a preloved clothing store for an animal rescue charity. I am told the same thing all the time. I also work in a paid job. So it's really insulting when I spend my days off work running this store to be told $10 for a vintage top is too expensive
Sorry IMO nobody should be charging a price for used clothing that it would cost to purchase the same item brand new. Especially places like Goodwill and Salvation Army that receive free donations and are supposed to be helping folks. I've actually stopped donating to them for that reason.
@@76482 I purchased a vintage Australian made long wool coat for $80 because I know the quality is far better than the cheap and nasty coats being sold in fast fashion retail stores. Even places like Cue and Country Road do not have the same level of quality as the coat I have purchased. When I unpack donations I basically discard anything from kmart or big w because it is unsalable because of the poor quality. I get a lot of comments asking me where I got my coat from (ebay purchase from a family raising funds to pay for their daughter's medical bills for cerebral palsy) and they are always disappointed they can never find a quality coat like it in the shops today
@@76482 they help folks with the money they make, too,
Not just by selling cheaper.
But yes, selling cheap brands like h&m for the same price as sold new is, of course, strange
I love it and actually am quiet addicted. I find good stuff all the time. I have over the years found some unbelievable treasures. most of my home is second hand. If i take something home and it doesnt suit i just re donate. its the bomb.
I loved the vinegar/baking soda tip. I hate that "thrift store" smell that is an amalgem of everyone's old detergent and mildew. The fit thing is so tricky sometimes. I really wanted a vintage wedding dress and I went to every antique/vintage store in town and tried on dozens of dresses. Nothing fit. Luckily one of the vintage sellers also made new dresses from vintage patterns and I hired her to make my dream dress. I think it's really important to develop a relationship with second hand stores and sellers online. I have done this over the years and people appreciate it and look things out for me and hold them, they give me discounts or shipping deals. I think it's definitely mutually beneficial because when I find something great and get complements I always tell people where I got it and tag the sellers if I wear them on insta.
I have a rule to try on one thing that I think I won’t like or wouldn’t normally grab. I have often been surprised that the item becomes a favorite. I do try to be very selective because it’s easy to come home with items due to price that don’t work. It’s a balancing act for sure!
All good points that I have discovered by experience as I have shopped 2nd hand way before it became a trend! My own main problem with 2nd hand shopping is really overconsumption and I realized that with the reflections, restrictions and self discovery brought by the pandemy!! and my main pet peave is the overpricing in 2nd hand big box store like Value Village! If one reason to shop 2nd hand is to deter us from slow fashion: don't sell cheap brands like H&M almost the same price as new! also overpricing means it goes back to the landfill as customers cannot afford it!
yes! I stopped shopping at Value World in the Detroit area for this very reason. Also, their stores are cramped and the stores are dirty. Salvation Army is much more enjoyable to shop
great points Janic! xx
Amen to that! Used is NOT new.
VV was found guilty of leading consumers to believe they are a nonprofit organization, when in fact they are not. I find it disgraceful and greedy to see many FF labels priced at $10-$25 in our Canadian stores.
It's even worse now because Shein stuff is showing up at used stores now and is definitely being priced for more than it was bought for.😒
I never look for clothes without my list of items I wish to bring into my wardrobe. The list is rarely more than 3 or 4 items and I describe each item specifically (colour, cut, length, fabric preference etc) so I don’t end up with an item that doesn’t actually fit the bill.
That’s a good idea! I need to start doing that 😅
These past few months of videos from Portugal and Croatia have been so so good!! Your content is always so engaging and thought provoking, the scenery has been oh so beautiful 😻 I’ve been secondhand shopping for 35 years so have many beautiful things in a carefully curated wardrobe. Your points on fabric care are an absolute must when considering the longevity of our wardrobe. I worked for the 2 largest home laundry companies in the world, fabric care is key to how long our garments will last. Gentle cycles now mimic hand wash, you can choose your load type, water temp, spin speed, etc. Quality natural fibres will last many years with proper laundry care and storage. Ciao Bella 🇭🇷
Sound advice, Alyssa!
I’m a long-term fan of secondhand shopping. Finding the gem in among the clutter of things that don’t fit or suit me makes it more of a treasure hunt, but you need to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince. I try on lots of stuff but am prepared that it might look ghastly. The giggles at the misfits are part of the fun. As much as I can, I return clothing I try on to the racks myself because most op shops here are staffed by volunteers.
I have learned to check everything carefully for stains or tears, inside and out. If I am not confident I can repair or clean it, I don’t risk the purchase. I am a confident sewer, which helps, but I avoid buying anything that might be a ‘project’.
My main criteria: fabric quality, fit and whether I would still buy the item if it were new and full price.
You are SO right about over consumption in the Second Hand shopping world!! I caught myself headed down that road just a few years ago and luckily realized it fairly quickly. You can't simply ask yourself "Would I have ever paid full price for this?" Simply because it's a phenomenal once in a lifetime price...that's not a reason to purchase. Ending up with things you don't LOVE just because they were incredibly priced..over consumption. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and am always inspired by your content!
Alyssa, This was such a very excellent video. I am a senior 🇨🇦 lady who raised her family on thrift shopping almost exclusively. Our family of 6 learned very early( in utero) to appreciate twice loved clothes, toys, furnishings, vehicles. Our way of living thru necessity and therefore thru choice. Second hand shopping does take much more time, patience and ingenuity to capitalize on the not quite perfect or find a way to adapt and make it work. It’s part of the price you pay for the reduced $s. It is most often the way to better quality items even if they’ve been previously owned by someone else.
Thank you from this Canadian lady for naming the game in this type of shopping. It is also So So satisfying when you score something you’ve been looking for, fo some time. Makes one appreciate our things much more than being able to spend our labour in a retail outlet of first choice.
Wil check out True Earth. I am retired for a year now and I am enjoying ur tips and monthly creative closet ventures.
I bought a lovely second hand Armani suit jacket in palest baby blue. I kept trying it on at home and it felt “off”. Went to my tailor who noticed both sleeves had been altered but one arm was an inch shorter than the other. She fixed the problem for $33 and now the jacket is divine. Never give up
You will love them! Thanks for sharing, such a greeat point! xx
Another reason to follow you- I have used True Earth for several years now. I took an Indian food oil stain out of a white Tshirt. I disolved a sheet and rubbed it on. I went to an Aussie equivalent- for only 1 month- then I came back- This months supply arrived yesterday. I have been Second hand, Army supply and car booting since the 70's - I have some amazing treasures. Love your channel
Whenever I'm not working and have the time to actually shop, some of the best things I find are not my true size. I've found that the smallest size I can fit into is a medium, but for the most part, I like to go through the size large and extra-large racks. Thank you for these very helpful tips, Alyssa! :)
I LOVE your point about "picturing the garment in your closet"!! It is a FUN treasure hunt to thrift!! My closet is carefully curated so that makes thrift shopping SO much easier.
The major part of my closet comes from second hand, I love making second hand bargains 🤩.
I shop at finer second hand stores with on trend clothes. So I find trousers, dresses, shirts and blouses, even shoes. And they are in really good shape and expensive brand for a cheap price 😊
yes! I totally agree
@@AlyssaBeltempo It's so fun to own and wear clothes from odd brands that you can't find in the usual chain stores. The only problem is to find the right size. 😏 I recently bought a pair of shorts that are a bit to big for me. I'll try to alter them in the back hem.
I agree with all of your tips. It takes time and patience to thrift, but oh the thrill when you find something great! I love that I rarely go a day when I look at what I’m wearing and at least one item is thrifted.
My tip: being able to try on clothes is rare. So I try to wear something that allows me to try on in a corner-like a tank that I can keep on while checking if the blouse fits, or a legging that would fit under a pair of slacks, or a skirt that I could shimmy slacks under or pull off when it’s under a dress I’ve tried. On my last foray, that enabled me to see if that Red dress really is what I want to wear next Christmas (yes) or if the dresses my girlfriend snagged for me looked amazing on me as well as on the hanger (no! Super unflattering). I found the perfect shirt dress I had been looking for, fit great over my tank like I had in mind, and two long sweaters in just my colors. Having my color palate in my head meant I got a ton of mileage out of those three pieces but wearing base clothes kept me from bad buys.
I really enjoy and look forward to watching your videos. I have a FT job, but am also a part-time reseller.
What really blew my mind this past year was visiting the Goodwill outlets in the states. To see the massive amount of bins filled to the brim (and seemingly bottomless-every day really shook me. It is unconscionable, the amount of goods Americans consume.) I am finding great pleasure in caring for (and often, restoring) many of the items that end up there. There is something wonderfully loving in thrifting-in knowing that someone else may have lived in the dress…the coat…the shoes I’m wearing (or that I will sell to someone else). It brings me so much joy to find beautiful (or fun!) items for other women. I really haven’t any interest in buying anything new. But back to you-thank you for your presence on UA-cam. I look forward to watching the archives! ❤️🙏🏼
Tru earth are the best. I've used them for years. Took an Indian oil stain out of a linen shirt. Love love
Super helpful as I embark on my 2nd hand prep for winter clothes well ahead of the season. I will be hearing your voice in the back of my head as I sift through the racks. Thank you for promoting True Earth. I’m a big fan and it’s a brilliant solution for traveling as well. I stay in many Airbnbs with laundry units and it’s a super easy way to pack your own laundry detergent!
Ahhh glad it was helpful - yes they're so good for travel!
I love second hand shopping. I am so blessed that I can alter garments because of my sewing background. I have found some beautiful things.
I carry a measuring tape. Take your measurements then compare your measurements to whatever garment you’re considering. It will give you a general idea I came up with that when stores weren’t allowing you to try pieces on.
I agree that you have to be patient. I am working on a specific capsule wardrobe and I go to the Goodwill every Sunday and hunt. I’ve gotten some really cute things. I’m not so worried about designer stuff so I can be more opened to whatever I find but I love thrift shopping. Great video and great tips!
I got a strong steamer and can sanitize even cashmere and dry clean only garments.
Hello Alyssa !! Thank you...Love True Earth too !! I'm curious if you can give advise on outfits while at home. Sometimes I don't want to be in a fabulously curated outfit , as in " all dressed up and no where to go", but I still want to be dressed but comfy . Croatia looks wonderful! I never imagined it would be so mediterranean !
Ah it is amazing!! I would highly recommend a visit ... that's a good question ... for at home I think it depends on the season but a rotation of solid basics (for you) like long comfy tops over faux leather leggings or simple sundress in the summer ...
@@AlyssaBeltempo Thank You. I'm doing the dress thing and loving that right now !! Your street style pics lately are inspiring too !!
Adictive if we don’t focus. Overconsumption is overconsumption. For me now I would rather not go, because I. Can’t help the impulse of a good find . I take pauses if I feel like loosing track
Yes, a measuring tape is a must. As someone with a long torso I need to do this with any tops.
As someone who used to volunteer at an op shop, yes items are hidden. Staff may be told they can only buy things that are still there at the end of the day. So they may put items they have their eyes on in odd places.
Look in the men's section. Active tops from here may fit tall girls better (also works for new t-shirts too).
So true. I bought two second hand dresses. Had to had them altered. They are still beautiful dresses and I love them 10 years later. Xxxx
I actually love the idea of a well curated selection, where the secondhand items are refurbised and dry cleaned for you! Where have you been in such a shop and could you share the experience?
LOVE True Earth! I love the way my clothes feel so fresh and clean, and there are no big drippy plastic jugs or pods to deal with. They ship to the US, where I live. Can't wait to try the new fragrance!
Second hand shopping is fun! It relaxes me, but I need to stay away from the blazer jacket section (my weakness) as can’t fit any more in my closet!! Lately It’s been fun going to those antique malls with different booths, found beautiful antique hankies (always carry them in my bag) and a few pearl necklaces💜thx for the great tips
Thanks so much Alyssa! I recently got into second hand shopping, it's like an adventure every time :)
About sizing, I find that a lot of items don't even have a size label because it's been cut off - I don't blame the previous owners, I tend to cut off all of mine too (the inner tags towards the bottom of the garment) - but I'm getting better at estimating whether the item fits me or not :)
I take a tape measure and a straight-talking friend 😉
Just as a sample of how sizing goes. I bought a pure silk skirt and top in 1982 from Nordstroms in size 14. I lent it to a friend who today wears a size 6/8 and it fits her perfectly. So much for vanity. lOL
Neck check! Half waist band of trousers and skirts that fits your neck will likely fit your body. Easy way to “know” if something is way too small. Always good content and great advice. Especially the sizing info. Thanks
You can also measure the rise on a pair of jeans or pants that fit well then measure the same length from your wrist or fingertip or bottom of your thumb to your elbow and use your arm when in-store.
eBay in UK is awesome.
My fave items at second hand stores are purses. Managed to find European made leather purses a few times in next to mint condition. Not high end brand names but unique designs.
@VH: I target purses as well for the same purpose plus also have discovered some amazing finds in belts as well as vintage jewelry.
I did get into over consumption because it always feels like such an exciting find. Now I'm trying to be more discerning.
me too when I started thrifting! It's very easy to overshop secondhand.
Me too. A great find for a low price liberates dopamine, we can easily feel happy and it’s adictive for sure lol . I am trying to pause thrifting today, priorizing my closet for a while
Very nice that so many of you find clothes in their size, this never actually happens to me, so my best tip : you should be able to sew or know a good tailor 🧵🪡
Spray clothes with high-proof alcohol (for example vodka), helps very well against odors too.
I have second hand shopped for years. As a larger sized person and because of fit issues, I never second hand shop for clothes online - accessories and bags yes. Plus I am a bargain hunter so I also usually avoid curated vintage shops. In my area best things to look for are wool/ merino and coats/ jackets. Another tip I think is important is don't ignore the men's section. And I agree with other commenters that most stains are there to stay no matter what you do: general grubbiness can be dealt with but not stains. Another is check the lining of any lined garments - there can be wear and tears and it's not that cheap or easy to replace. Also that repair or tailoring you think you will do or pay for: it mostly just won't end up happening. And actively cycle second hand buys out - they should be provisional in your wardrobe til they prove themselves in wear.
In LOVE with Tru Earth! It’s also made in Canada! Love this video! I had some nice clothes growing up because my mom could sew, but she also taught me to shop resale/yard sale, etc. If a garment came close to fitting, she could taylor it!
RIght!? Love them :) Ooh lucky you that your mom can sew!!
A huge percentage of my weardrobe is thrifted. I think if we treasure each item we have in our weardrobe and resist the urge to overconsume that is key. I am also an avid seamstress and have rescued more than one piece that is damaged to the point of being unbearable. My favorite new Summer skirt was purchased as a set. The top a button down was wonderful from the getgo but the poor skirt had the elastic waist literally half torn off. I cut off the top, inserted new elastic and made the unflattering length now just above the knee. I now just love this and hope to keep it in my closet for years to come. Your tips were all wonderful. Thanks again for your great content.
Love your channel, you do it so well. Can you elaborate around your vinegar baking soda mixture? I often struggle to get the smell of "old lady" out of my second hand clothes. I use vodka water mixture but it never completely removes the smell. Thanks.
Just baking powder sprinkled on the clothes works like magic! Leave in a plastic bag or suitcase for a few weeks. Then shake out and wash. Brilliant!
Your garden is absolutely lovely
I totally agree that it takes persistence, which is the actual best part if you love to thrift. Everyone always asks me why I’m always able to find such great things when they can’t, and I always answer…you have to go out, a lot. And you have to be open minded, and never expect to find the exact thing you are looking for the first time out. And I’ve honestly found that the more I thrift, the more success I have. You train yourself to hone in on what’s good, and it’s not so overwhelming as it is when you don’t go out regularly
I go to the same thrift store everyday…. You don’t always find things….and most of what you find boils down to donations and the timing at which it was put out on the floor. But it is really fun when you do find great things😃
Alyssa, I like the style of your white tee shirt. What brand and style is it please?
Thanks so much for all your tips.i just love to second hand shop.op shopping here in Australia, I go often with some girlfriends the other day I picked up 2 black dresses 2 tops a soft black cardigan just love them all.and the best part of second hand shopping you can donate it back when you've had enough of the peace cos you haven't paid the earth for it.🤣
Those are excellent tips. I especially like the one about setting a goal. Sometimes when you do that magic happens.
Tru-Earth is wonderful I have been using it for years.
as a long time thrifter too, i can see you gave excellent advice.
some of it is just experience that people learn over time, if you can save them from things like over-consumption, great!
the tip on consistancy should be pretty easy for the beginner thrifter as well.
keeping one's mind open, whilst still taking everything in, is a harder trick, but once mastered, totally interesting and fulfilling.
You might want to soak new second-hand purchases in two separate baths of baking soda (alkaline) and then vinegar (acid). Combining them neutralizes their pHs and cancels out their benefits.
Yeah, so much wasted product with that combo advice...
Baking soda is alkaline and Vinegar is acid so putting them together may reduce the effectiveness of your natural cleaning product. If I am mistaken plz correct me
Another great video. I have better luck with thrift stores and Poshmark than consignment. I was extremely disappointed on my last two visits to (two different) consignment stores. It was slim pickings in the small section where most items were actually size medium. Things were much better in the “old days” or ten to twenty years ago.
Quality isn’t that great at consignment either unless you’re looking for cowboy boots or you go to high end designer consignment boutiques and even then everything is too large and the focus is more on bags than clothing.
I’m seeing a lot of resellers when shopping. From watching a few of their UA-cam channels it seems they’re going for the larger sizes. Maybe that’s why I’m finding more things in my size at thrift stores. And why friends who wear larger sizes often walk out empty handed. It’s also probably why you don’t see new with tags much anymore. I don’t have a problem with selling something from your own closet but reselling as a business is ruining it for those who thrift to clothe ourselves or our families.
My rule with second hand shopping is "would I pay full price for this?" - if it doesn't look good enough to pass that test, I'll pass. It's a trap to buy something just because it's a bargain because I won't end up wearing it 😊.
So true!!
Love the true earth laundry soap. Thank for this video. I am going to start second hand shopping for learning about it now.
Unless you're only interested in dresses and skirts, I also recommend looking in the men's section. I have found some extremely excellent knitwear and jeans by doing this, and it seems as though jumpers (aka sweaters) in the men's section are more likely to be made from natural materials.
Found a great sheepskin tan jacket that i had wanted for about 20yrs!! ☺ ok it did need a refresh but a day hanging outside and a spray with some light perfume!!!
💙💙💙 I really enjoy second hand shopping…my last purchase for €4 was a beautiful pair of white linen Fenn Wright Manson trousers…thank very much! Another tip is to go to charity shops in wealthy areas… I recently picked up a gorgeous white Versace belt, silver guess tote bag and fab silk scarf from a charity shop …
Also it’s so surprising what people donate, so many items don’t look like they’ve ever been worn/used …what fun it is having a rummage through 😄…. Thanks for another fab video 💙💙💙
yesss location of the shop is key! xx
Going to shops in wealthy areas doesn’t work if you’re shopping at chains like Value Village. Maybe they do some sorting centrally and distribute to individual stores. I’ve had better luck in the less wealthy areas.
I’ve found terrific stuff while traveling to other cities. Different places, different tastes. Some places are at least a decade behind when it comes to what’s in fashion.
When I moved to my current city I couldn’t believe what furniture people where putting out on the sidewalk on trash day. It would have been scooped up immediately in my former city because it was in good condition and solid wood. I picked up a few pieces - a vintage 50s floor lamp, waterfall vanity, nightstand and a plant stand. After a several weeks in quarantine outside in subzero temperatures I brought them inside and still have them almost a decade later. I even have regrets about things I didn’t pick up.
Great tips! And enjoying what the community has added to the tips list 😄
I love buying pre-owned items! I combine 'laser-focus' and 'open-mindedness in these ways:
If I'm looking for a specific item (e.g. chunky, cropped, black, cotton cardigan, or wool denim jeans in mid wash.... [recent purchases 😆]) I will usually go online for the shopping, and save searches/ be patient until I can fill that wardrobe gap.
When I go into acctual stores I keep the wish-list in mind, but like to be more open to 'come what may' and end up with unique, amazing things I would have never thought of searching for (hello vintage beautiful satin-lined angora beaded cardigan!) These add some unexpected fun to the wardrobe.
BUT these items need to go with what's already in my closet and fit my closet 'story'.
Great tips. Maybe the laser Focus is especially necessary when shopping on the internet sites and well curated shops whereas the open-minded attitude is more necessary when going to Value Village, SallyAnn and such places.
I have a lot of laundry detergent and dryer sheets that I will be using up but then I will definitely be trying Tru-Earth strips.
Thank you as always for another great video.
oooh yes great advice Lisbet!
I’ve tried one of the competitors to Tru-Earth and sure don’t miss hauling home jugs of laundry soap, even environmentally friendly refillable jugs of laundry soap. Why has it taken the industry so long?
I’ve thrifted my whole life and love it , I’m now a reseller online so I agree with you , takes time and patience for sure !!! My own closet has grown so much !! 🙊 especially from $1 days at my local thrift ! 🤦♀️ it’s a lot of work but I love this job 🤩 I’m half Croatian! So neat you are there ! Enjoy it all !! Always natural soap for the win !! 🏅
Yes it's patience! I worked in a thrift shop for 9 years. And it's not always there on the weekend you arrive. You have to know when stock goes out and also be lucky! Some things literally sell while it's in my hand as I put them out. Or something may sit there for weeks until the perfect person walks in the door. And unfortunately, some of the best things get stolen (no matter the price tag). So luck luck luck.
Also be friendly to your store workers. I don't mean suck up and you'll get a discount.(you wont 😂) No, the workers will keep you in mind and walk you to the item they think belongs to you.
Also be prepared to spend if it is a label and quality. Just because it's thrift doesn't mean cheap. So don't walk in on a high horse when a shop ask for a price because 10/10, 1 customer will be outraged with a price. It is later sold that day for that price.
I was telling my sister the other that I approach secondhand shopping like I'm renting the clothes. I get bored with my wardrobe easily and when I do, I go through everything and send stuff I have gotten bored with back to the thrift store.
With my sizing I almost never find anything nice that fits me in my area from thrifting. That said I find all the amazing frilly dresses for my toddler and they're expensive name brand ones for like $5 or less. My husband and I check the one that's super close every month or so. :3
I know in Edmonton in Canada. I don't know about the rest of it, but you cannot try clothes on at say value village and some of the goodwills too anymore since the pandemic. So what I do? I always wear something close fitting to value village and try stuff on over those clothes like leggings and a tight tank top, or bike shorts and a tight tank top. And even though I'm a little, what can I say? Risque looking lol at least I can try things on before I buy them. That's a really important part of thrifting for me, So if this helps anybody, you're welcome lol
Thx for the vinegar & baking soda tip PRIOR to washing the garment
Any tips for "used shoes" before wearing them??
I use a few drops of tea tree oil on a clean rag or make up remover pad and wipe all around the inside. Allow to air dry naturally. And of course never try on shoes in bare feet.
Could you share your vinegar-baking soda recipe for soaking clothes?
My friend used that method and her clothes stayed looking new for years!
When I tried it, I got white spots in my dark clothes. );
Great video! I've been thrift shopping since 1996 before it was popular. I've been going weekly for years to different stores. In that time I have recently seen fewer items with new tags, boutique sections of the store charging more for specific items, major price increases, and clothes that are more worn out or very out of style than in the past. It has made finding garments more difficult but not impossible. Now I need to feel content leaving with one thing or even nothing. I refuse to pay high prices at a thrift shop for something that's previously worn when I could buy something new for practically the same price. That said, I still enjoy the process and finding gems. One tip I have is that if I buy something that I feel is an experiment and not sure if it fits in my personal style or my body, I will wear it once and wash it and put it in the back of my closet, try it on with different outfits occasionally and wear it one more time if I'm unsure. That way if I decide to donate it it's barely used.
Interesting advice about the garment that's out of your comfort zone ... secondhand finds are often that way!
This is so true about the change in pricing and choices in 2nd hand store!!!
My tip is to frequent thrift stores near the wealthiest neighborhoods. Just yesterday we bought 8 cherry wood double-cane backed diningroom armchairs with spotless heavy gauge upholstery for $55. Plus I got a full shopping cart of designer name shoes, clothes and a wool herringbone coat for only another $74 🤗
Great tips. I strongly agree w your points about keeping clothes clean & in good shape. I want to pass on clothes bc of wearing it out, change in fit or style change not because I ruined it. I also ALWAYS encourage shopping the whole store. All sizes and genders. Im a small person and found a favorite wool sweater in the Mens section size L (I’m a Xs/S). And still consume mindfully. Its a great way to try styles out, but it is still consuming.
Thank you. I am not giving up on second hand shopping but VERY disappointed with Poshmark. Plus Poshmark always sides with the seller in a dispute. Something’s sellers do are:
1. Sell clothing that is much smaller than the label .
2. Sell clothes without disclosed stains.
3. Sell stuff that is threadbare, and low quality advertised as fashionista, influencer ware.
4. Sell heavily worn clothing advertised as “new with tags”.
Buy local, in person at consignment shops instead of online whenever possible, especially with pants.
I've had the same experience with an unscrupulous seller on eBay.
thank you for turning my on to true earth. i am a convert i just love them.
It's a treasure hunt! I love it! Thanks for the vid.
As a
Ways really enjoyed your video…don’t know if you saw it but there was a piece in NYTimes about Thrift shopping era as being over…one point made was that with the advent of “fast fashion”, and changing purchasing habits
The available merchandise showing up in a many thrift venues is not well made, often contains environmentally unsound synthetic materials, and the increases in prices, means bargain days are over. Whether you agree or disagree with this analysis, one thing I would add… with the advent of “professional pickers“ who travel widely to source inventory for online stores there is often very little left for the weekend thrifter. I have encountered these “pickers” with carts full of brand name merchandise, (they shot by label rather than size) lined up at the register buying several hundred dollars worth of clothing at a time. In my 30+ years of thrift shopping, I’ve been finding less and less worth purchasing and notice “online” prices aren’t really bargains anymore either. I live in California where there tend to be many stores but would love to hear others experiences.
“Shop by label”
@@tdav3237 The thrift shops also price by label, boosting the price way up for recognizable brand, no matter the quality.
Another reason to not trust sizing is some clothing was tailored for the former owner. A friend of mine got excited finding an expensive brand of jeans in his “size” But when he tried them on at home they were tailored way too short for him to wear
I just found a Helen Kaminski sun visor in a tiny mountain thrift store for $1. Perfect condition. They resale for $100 to $150....
An enjoyable video as always. I am curious, do you ever consider secondhand vintage jewellery, as this does not seem to be something you touch on much?
oh yes, I wear a lot of vintage jewelry! I guess I just haven't mentioned it! Thanks for the reminder!
Auctions are a good place for jewellery.
When you go, particularly something like a goodwill, wear a slim pair of bike shorts and a sports bra or tank so you can try on clothes outside a dressing room and not have to dress when you go back for more clothes.
However, always bring the shoes that you want to wear with what you’re looking for.
I love the highly curated high end second hand shops because I am getting the great experience with the second hand shopping benefits for the earth. Had so much luck with these types of shops despite being a plus size buyer.
Bonjour Alyessa. Great tips and great video. Especially the vinegar and baking soda tip. Croatia looks sunny and beautiful. Our weather here is not very good yet. Lucky you.
Excellent suggestions! Thanks for sharing.
great tips. I just recently discovered these laundry strips! They are so much better for travel, if you have access to doing laundry in a vacation rental. Or if you are going to sink wash your undies or delicates, you can just tear a tiny bit of the strip off and use that.
Excellent tips Alyssa, thanks. Just a piece of advice for you: dry you lovely linen black short inside out (especially when the south european sun is really up) and dont leave the garments for long under the sun in genereal otherwise get stiff. Un abbraccio dalla bella Italia.
I love thrift shopping. I grew up on it. When I was young (57 now) there was not much selection. The selection has exploded in the last 20 years!
Here’s my top reasons I prefer thrift over new:
Price!!! It’s a fraction of the cost.
The Hunt- so much fun when you find that special unique item made just for you!!
Selection- From every age group to every part of the world, all on a few racks. You learn your style: from color preference, to form, to material.
Once you hone the skill, does not take hours looking (unless you want to on that day). You are able to look at an item and quickly determine if it’s right for you in every way. I do have a harder time buying for my husband but I’m getting better at that too.
I have to disagree that there was not much selection in the past. Thrifting took me through years of teaching in the 60s-70s-80s. During much of that time women teachers were expected to wear dresses and suits, NOT pants -until pantsuits came in. I had a nice wardrobe with a very low expenditure, because of a few good consignment and thrift shops. My daughters learned the lesson well.
Great tips. I have seen people over consume because things are cheap. I have to be careful because I tend to wonder if an item will still be there later-even if it’s not perfect. Keeping my current wardrobe in mind helps
Yes, I always ask myself how something will fit in with what I already have. If you buy the best quality you can afford or find, things that fit you and look good on you, it's going to last many years. I'm still wearing a cashmere pea jacket I bought in 1992. It still looks fantastic. The buttons needed changing and that brought it up to today's style. Had to repair a rip in the lining. Going strong!
This helped me get my own clothes in better order. Shop my closet indeed!💫
Thank you for your interesting videos. Love the location shots too.
I prefer to cruise to other continents & then travel for about a month or so at the destination. Cruise wear & travel wear don’t always coincide so I shop for the formal wear at thrift shops, tailor them & often leave them behind because I need to travel light at the end of the cruise. There has been times I get so many compliments on the clothing piece I will drag it around with me…but it truly is a win win.
Thanks for the discount code - these are perfect for travelling!