Confessions of a Serial Thrifter & Clothing Flipper

I’ve always been a frugal person. Recently, a friend commented that I am regularly buying new clothes. She asked if I have a closet full of them?

The short answer is “No.”

The long answer is “Why.”

I think it’s important for people to have an individual sense of style. It communicates who you are without using words. Your "personal branding” doesn’t have to be in vogue, it just needs to be you!

Where do my clothes come from?

• 70% - Thrift shops

• 20% - Consignment

• 10% - Department stores

People may think it’s odd I seek out clothes others have worn. For hygienic reasons, I don’t buy used undergarments and very rarely purchase used shoes.

Everything else is fair game!

When thrift shopping, I visit on sale days. I hunt for vintage items made from quality materials in flattering cuts. I don’t focus on the decade, I just hone in on what catches my eye.

Check out these awesome thrift stores:

• Last Chance Thrift Store – 50% OFF on Mondays

• Second Life Thrift Store – 40% OFF on Saturdays

• The Salvation Army – 25% OFF on Wednesdays

• Park Avenue Thrift Outlet – Discounted daily (Wednesdays are the best day to go)

I rarely pay more than $2-10 for a thrifted item. I also cycle through my wardrobe every 4 to 6 months.

The way I see it, "If a garment hasn't been worn in a while, then it’s time to flip it!" Why not make some of your money back?

Consignment stores will offer anywhere from 30-60% of the retail price. Some will pay you upfront, while others will create a vendor account on your behalf.

Here are some great local consignment stores:

• Rag-O-Rama

• Buffalo Exchange

• Kiwi Vintage

• Back by Popular Demand

• Plato’s Closet

There are definitely certain clothing items you can’t find (or don’t want) used. That’s where the department store sale rack comes in.

If you don’t mind shopping off-season:

• Kohl’s has great sale coupons, as well as 50-75% OFF racks in-store

• DSW has an awesome sale rack (20-70% OFF) and they’ll even send you a birthday coupon!

• Due to a store closing, Belk near my office has been running 80% OFF sales

I hope these tips help anyone who wants to dress fashionably and/or save a few bucks. And, you can dress sensibly without supporting the fast fashion industry.