16 Apr Thrift Shopping Strategy: You’re Probably Walking Right Past the Best Deals

It inevitably happens. You walk into a thrift shop and head straight for the racks. Um, that’s OK, but if you really want some serious jewels, you might want to switch that up.

You may be {literally} passing by the best gems in the store and you don’t even know it.

Here’s why I suggest shopping the jewelry case and accessories first!
You may have heard about the man who bought a watch at Goodwill for $5.99 and it turned out to be worth $35,000! Well, that might not happen to you but you never know what’s waiting behind those jewelry displays.

Instead of making your way directly to the racks, check out the cases, even if it’s to quickly scan the items.

A few weeks ago I went to the Best of Spring sale at Housing Works {their Design on a Dime event is next week, get your tickets!} and the hardcore thrift shoppers certainly adhered to this strategy. The first thing to go? Jewelry! Sure, people were shopping for clothes, home items, shoes and even vinyl, but jewelry was certainly number one and the accessory counter became crowded with shoppers looking for the most bang for their buck.

And it doesn’t always have to be the uber-expensive jewelry that’s worth you’re time. Sometimes it’s a $6 Zara statement necklace, like the one I scored at the Salvation Army, that can really update your look {see the full Thrifty Threads outfit here!}. Like I always say, if you’re shopping budget is really limited, go for the accessories and mix and match them with your existing wardrobe.

Also, if you find costume jewelry, here are some tips on how to make your costume jewelry last longer and look more expensive.

Thrift shopping is seriously all about strategy: what to choose, what to avoid and where to allot the majority of your time. For even more tips, be sure to pick up a copy of my book, Looking Fly on a Dime: How to Find Fabulous Fashion at Any Thrift Shop & Make the Cheap Look Chic.

What’s your thrift shopping strategy? Do you typically shop for clothes or accessories first? If you had to choose between only thrifting clothing or jewelry, which would you choose?