COLUMN: Thrifting has become 'new form of retail therapy'

I did not choose the “thrift life” — it was thrust upon me. Until recently, I didn’t know it was the name for an actual activity used as a verb, as in “to thrift.” What I am referring to is shopping at stores that sell previously owned items — from clothing to shoes and books to furniture — typically to raise money for various charities.

Depending on the location, it’s not necessarily of benefit to any charity and as long as you know and accept that, then it’s no harm, no foul. So, when I say I was “forced” into this activity, that’s not really true. I was encouraged to try it out by a friend who has done it for years. It seemed a natural progression from attending garage sales, which are typically held on weekends and tend to be sporadic. Also, I did feel a bit pressured into the activity, as I assume others have, due to the economy.

Seriously, who can afford full price for anything these days? Over the last couple of months, my friend has introduced me to this interesting, enjoyable new form of retail therapy. I will admit I started out with a healthy dose of skepticism. I was probably a second-hand store snob, and I apologize. I assumed the stuff was going to be broken, useless, dirty, and maybe even germy. I could not have been more wrong. 

From what I have seen at a variety of for-profit and non-profit stores, everything is clean, in good shape, organized, and economical. And we have some really great ones in Simcoe County. Most regular thrifters seem to go on a circuit from one location to the other, so you’ll see the same people at all your stops. That makes it fun and friendly.

Clearly, there’s something about the thrill of the search for a special item you want, be it vintage or modern, that energizes people. And if you have a competitive spirit, it is equally exhilarating to get the good deal before the next customer. If it comes at a discount price, all the better!

As a newbie, I don’t know the ropes yet, so I searched online for some tips on successful thrift shopping. According to Krazycouponlady.com, there are a few tried and true strategies:

  1. Do most of your thrifting in small towns, not big cities. Seems with less competition comes better stock.
  2. Do your research. Find out what each store specializes in. Some may be better for furniture, while others have a better clothing section.
  3. Find out when your favourite store restocks and shop that day. Same goes for knowing when discount day is.

    Some stores will give you coupons if you donate items.

  4. Shop for items that are off-season for best deals.
  5. Test electronics before you purchase. (I’ve noticed there are often power outlets available for testing.)
  6. Know your brands so you know good quality.
  7. Never pay more than 20 per cent of what a retail price would be for the same new item.
  8. Limit yourself to 45 minutes per store. Visit more often but for shorter periods of time to avoid burnout and frustration.
  9. Know there may or may not be fitting rooms.
  10. Make friends with the staff. They might set something aside they know you collect.

Personally, I am not taking it quite so seriously. I just like a little weekday shopping spree that makes me feel like I got a deal. It remains true that one person’s cast-offs are another person’s treasure. Plus, it’s also shopping locally, which is always a good thing. It keeps some items out of a landfill and gives things a new life — it’s like a reusable bag full of second chances.

Is it time to make a shift to thrift?

Tags:

allsole-com listed on couponmatrix.ukibis listed on couponmatrix.ukjewson listed on couponmatrix.uklitecraft listed on couponmatrix.uklsa-international listed on couponmatrix.uktiqets listed on couponmatrix.uk
allsole-com listed on couponmatrix.ukHow can I use my AllSole discount code? You’ll be instructed to enter a code once you are on the transaction page. There will be a clearly shown area to enter the code. Remember to enter the promo code before you complete the transaction, as it may not be possible to apply the code afterwards.
ibis listed on couponmatrix.ukIbis have been the go-to hotel for travellers on a budget for generations, and can always be relied upon for solid, reliable accommodation that costs less than the rest of its peer group without cutting any significant corners.
jewson listed on couponmatrix.ukThere’s no task too large nor project too ambitious for the building whizzes at Jewson, experts in offering all the construction essentials anyone needs to start from the ground-up. Whether you need bricks and building supplies or power tools and cleaning equipment, a Jewson voucher code is all that’s required to get the machines and materials you need at a price below your budget. Even if you just need some advice or help planning a project, there’s always advice on hand from the experts at Jewson.
litecraft listed on couponmatrix.ukSee the difference a few new fixtures can make to your home at Litecraft, specialists in providing electrical illumination in every shape and form. Even those looking to replace the odd bulb or add a Stanley outdoor light to their porch can use a Litecraft discount code to knock the cost of their investment. With a regularly changing clearance range, weekly deals and frequent product giveaways throughout the year, it’s easy to see why Litecraft lights up so many lives.
lsa-international listed on couponmatrix.ukFounded in Poland over 50 years ago, LSA has been a beacon for fashionable tableware across the globe for half a century. Even today, they use the same signature high-quality finishes and traditional, complex artisan techniques which are indicative of LSA’s distinctive product lines. With an LSA discount code, you can find some amazing savings on their stunning range of natural wood, leather, porcelain, and mouthblown glass dining wear to ensure your next dinner party is a success.
tiqets listed on couponmatrix.ukTravel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. No matter where you are in the world, Tiqets will help you see culture to expand your horizons and grow in experience. With your Tiqets discount code, you can access some of the top attractions in any city, with fast-track entry and quick tickets sent directly to your mobile device. You'll be able to see a city and experience true culture like never before. Make memories which will last a lifetime with Tiqets.