14 Dec How Thrift Shopping Can Benefit Your Style {& It Has Nothing to Do with the Prices!}

It’s cheap, right? That’s why you thrift shop?”

I’ve heard the above question before and the answer is yes. But also no.

The obvious benefit to thrifting is the prices {but even thrifting is going upscale!}. However, there are other advantages to thrift shopping that have less to do with price and so much more about style.

We all love a bargain, but from a fashion perspective, thrift shopping has several pros.

Take Greater Fashion Risks
This is probably the biggest way thrift shopping can benefit your style. I didn’t fully realize this until a recent Thrifty Threads post on a pair of relaxed jeans I’m obsessed with. I would have never purchased jeans like those at a department store but because the price was just a few bucks, I took a chance. And that’s what style should be about. Stepping out of your comfort zone to discover a look you love and that really expresses who you are.

Clothes with Character
Details, details, details. It’s all in the details. Maybe I’m biased but I’m confident thrifted clothes have more character. Not all, but it’s easier to find something at the thrift shop that’s a real standout piece that hasn’t been mass produced or have a designer price tag attached to it. Even if you love shopping fast fashion stores {H&M, Forever 21, Zara, etc.}, having a few thrifted pieces can add a unique element and have people asking you, “where did you get that?”

More Mindful of Non-Thrift Purchases
“Is this really worth it?” Do you find yourself asking that question when you’re shopping at a non-thrift store? When you really get into thrifting, that will become a recurring question. Since thrift prices are so affordable, your definition of “cheap” can change. This really makes you more discerning about spending cash, which isn’t just good for your wallet, but your closet as well. This cuts down on purchasing clothing you don’t really love and will never wear.

Thrift shopping really has changed my style for the better and every thrifter I know {and I know tons!} feels the same way! If you’re new to the world of thrift and need a few tips to master the trade, then my book is for you. Looking Fly on a Dime: How to Find Fabulous Fashion at Any Thrift Shop & Make the Cheap Look Chic breaks down the do’s and don’ts of navigating any thrift shop and crafting a unique style.

How has your style benefited from thrift shopping? Do you shop differently when you go to department stores versus thrift stores?