Thriftspiration is a weekly series that puts a spotlight on readers who share their secondhand shopping tips and fun ways to style thrifted finds. 
vintage, thrift store vintage
Name: SaVonne Location: St. Louis, Missouri
When and why did you start thrift shopping? I began thrifting for clothing in high school.  was obsessed with the styles, cuts/designs, sizing, textures, and colors of older clothes. I express myself through the art of style. Also, I believe the quality in clothing has declined & all of the same clothes are being sold. Why pay more for recycled designs in-store, when I can pay less for originality?
What three words would you use to describe your style? Simple. Conservative. Vintage.
How did you style your outfits? Red Jumpsuit {above}: I combined a vintage red jumpsuit, with a modern gold-plated belt. I am obsessed ITALICS with pearls and I wear them with anything, hence the cluster-pearl ring and pearl earrings. Never be afraid of costume jewelry! I wrapped my hair in classic leopard to add a print, along with pink suede heels. Red and pink are beautiful together. Thrifted Dooney & Bourke bags are my thing- this Dooney was my grandmother’s bag that she finally gave to me.

affordable nyc thrift store, cheap new york thrift stores

I tend to get the same question over and over, "Patrice, what's your favorite thrift store in NYC?" Well, I've done quite a few posts on my favorites {including thrift shopping 101}, but this post is all about my favorite, most affordable shops. These are the places I go when I want serious bang for my limited buck. Yes, New York can be expensive and some thrift stores charge $10, $15 or even $20 for a basic dress, but not these shops.Check out my top three picks for most affordable thrift stores in New York. I'm talking as low as less than $1 for vintage and designer goods.

how to wear black and whiteLast week I showed you the 5 wardrobe staples to buy at thrift stores, and this week it's all about the trends. Every season the runways of New York, Paris and London dictate what's in and what's out for the coming months. And though everyone clamors for what's "new," some of these trends are simply revamped classics that are just having a moment. Like seriously, when is leather not on trend?And this is a great thing if you're in to {or want to get in to thrifting}. If you're not willing to invest in a trend, the secondhand store is a great option, but also, since fashion is so cyclical, you'll find many of the "new" trends at your Goodwill, Salvation Army or your thrift store of choice.Check out three easy to find and easy to wear trends you can score from a thrift store.

looking fly on a dime thrift shoppingWhen it comes to fashion, there are some items every woman needs in her closet. These are the wardrobe staples that flatter all figures and work for every occasion of dressing. Though they're classic pieces and worth investing in, you can actually hit up your local thrift store for them. Actually, your thrift store is most likely overflowing with these items. And they won't set you back more than a few dollars.
It's always impossible to determine what a secondhand store will or won't have in stock, but I can assure you the majority of them have these five wardrobe staples on hand year round.

thrift shopping mistakes, how to thrift shop
Thrift shopping is too hard. I never know where to shop. Why don't I find anything good? 
These are just some of the comments and questions I hear from those who want to get in to thrift shopping but haven't really been able to get the hang of it. I understand it's not for everyone {the inventory can be hot or cold and all stores aren't created equally}, but trust me, thrift shopping is something everyone, and I do mean everyone can do. It's economical, green and a great way to cultivate an individual sense of style.
Though I've done tons of posts on thrift shopping 101 and FAQ, I'm notice people running in to the same problems and luckily, I have the solutions.