I can’t tell you how many times I receive emails or tweets like this. And in spite of all of the thrift shopping posts I do {thrift shopping 101, thrift shopping commandments, etc.}, there’s always someone who tells me they keep walking away empty handed. Of course I don’t mind the emails, you guys can always contact me, but anytime I respond to problems like this, I tell the frustrated shopper they’re most likely committing typical thrift shopper sins.

If you keep striking out while thrift shopping, you’re probably doing one or all of the things below wrong.

No Time to Shop
Here’s what some people do: Walk in to a thrift store. Grab a cart. Walk out frustrated after 30 minutes. So what’s the problem?

Unless you’re a thrift pro, you need to give yourself at least an hour to check out the racks or dig through bins. And that’s not even accounting for the time required to try everything on. So carve out an hour and don’t get frustrated if you don’t find anything right away. The more frustrated you get, the more likely you are to overlook potentially amazing pieces because you’re so ticked off and over it.

Your Expectations Are Too High & Specific
“I went to Goodwill to find a black and gold off the shoulder sequin dress and lime green cardigan with elbow patches. I didn’t find either.” Hmm, if the list of what you’re looking for is that specific, I can guarantee you’ll walk away disappointed. Sure, you should have an idea of what you want or need {little black dress, high waisted jeans, etc.}, but keep the list fairly general and not too specific.

Every thrift store is different and the inventory is constantly changing, so predicting what you’ll come across is impossible. Anytime I’ve ever found a really statement making garment, I’ve never been looking for it. It just randomly happens. Embrace the fashion serendipity.

Your Vision May Be Lacking
While thrift shopping, I’m always aware of other shoppers. If I see someone pick up a gorgeous item and then place it back on the rack, I usually wonder if they didn’t like the piece or just didn’t know how to wear it. Some clothes can be a bit intimidating at first glance {bold prints, shoulder pads, bright colors, etc.}, so it’s easy to dismiss them as being less than wearable. But when you take a sec to see the potential {belting a dress or shirt that may be oversized, removing shoulder pads, toning down a loud print with neutrals you have in your closet}, you open yourself up to finding something amazing.

These are just a few common reasons you might have a less than successful thrift shopping experience.