Many people say thrift shopping is an art, where true treasures are scarce, and only the lucky triumph. With my tips, you too can become expert (or up your game) in the Art of Thrifting.
Before we dive in, here’s my biggest tip of all: Know why you’re thrifting. Why do you thrift? Savings? Curios? Antiques? Vintage gems? Establish your top motivation and let your answer guide your experience.
MOLLIE’S TOP SEVEN TIPS TO THRIFT LIKE A PRO:
Tip #1 – SHOP WITH A FOCUSED WISHLIST
- Thrift shops are full of unique pieces. It’s easy to be swept up in the magic and great deals. This can lead to what I call “the Costco Phenomenon,” where you go in order to save money but end up spending a lot for a mess of stuff you don’t need. Sound familiar? To help you stay focused (and leave satisfied), keep a running list of what you’re seeking.
Sweet coat, right? Thrift shop win!
Tip #2 – PICK YOUR FAV SHOPS AND VISIT OFTEN
- Once you’ve explored your area’s thrift shops, pick your top three to five and visit them regularly, wishlist in hand. That way, you’ll be able to quickly move through items you’ve seen before and focus on new finds. Avoid decision fatigue (it’s a real thing) and save precious time so you can better focus on finding items you love.
Tip #3 – GET CREATIVE AND DON’T LET APPEARANCES FOOL YOU!
- Be open minded; remember to not judge a book by its cover. Try to visualize an item outside of the store, as a new addition to your wardrobe or home. Thrift shops generally don’t have big budgets for interior decor and there can be a lot to sift through. COMMIT AND GET IN THERE. You’ll be surprised by what you find.
Tip #4 – CREATE A THRIFTING ROUTINE BASED ON WEEKLY AND MONTHLY SALES
- Many thrift shops have rotating sales for different days of the week, for example a discount on kids’ wear on Thursdays. Save even more! You can also learn the days when new items are brought out at your favourite spots, allowing you to have first pick.
So many games and puzzles to choose from!
Tip #5 – BUY ONLY WHAT YOU LOVE
- I can’t stress this one enough. Remember the Costco Phenomenon? Exactly. It’s not a great deal if you won’t wear or use the item… even when “it’s a steal”. You’ll feel like you’re winning in life when you leave a store with purchases you love. Save your cash for the great finds. I’ve left stores empty handed more times than I can count, but every trip is worth it for the times I walk in and find the right piece.
- Tip #6 – SPOT IMPERFECTIONS & SCORE DEALS
- Remember, although you may find brand-new merchandise at thrift stores, most items have already started their life, so it’s always smart to inspect anything you’re interested in buying to know what shape it’s in. If there’s a small snare you can fix, see if you can get a discount. If it’s something that you’re not willing to fix, put it down. Also, be open to the possibility of alterations if you’re taken with something that doesn’t fit quite right.
Yet another incredible deal on this jacket!
Tip #7 – GIVE BACK, GENEROUSLY
- Finally, now that you know how to thrift like a boss, remember to give back and keep your closet clean! Thrift stores are always looking for donations. Keep your style fresh and your living space clean while being more sustainable. Plus, many thrift stores give back to our community. Win-win!
While you can take these tips anywhere, here’s where you can start thrifting in downtown Victoria. Support local business, and while you’re at it, stop by one of the many, many awesome places to eat and drink. Enjoy!
Cheers, Mollie Green
ROUNDUP OF DOWNTOWN VICTORIA THRIFT STORES
Note: Some of the links are to a Facebook page because they don’t have a website.
- WHERE: 715 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:00pm, Sun 10:00am-4:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you are seeking items for the whole family. They support Victoria Cool Aid Society. Also, well organised.
- WHERE: 556 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Tues closed, Wed-Sun 12:00pm-6:00pm
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you are looking for vintage and unique items!
But shirts for your kids…they’ll grow out of them fast!
- WHERE: 1824 Government St, Victoria, BC
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Sat 11:00am-5:30pm, Sun 11:00am-4:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re searching for fun modern and vintage consignment clothes at affordable prices.
- WHERE: 579 Johnson St, Victoria, BC
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Thurs & Sun 10:00am-6:00pm, Fri-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re in search of young vintage and retro consignment clothes at affordable prices.
- WHERE: 719 Yates St, Victoria, BC
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Sun 10:00am-8:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking for modern and vintage trends as a young and vibrant thrifter!
- WHERE: 525 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8W 1M2, Located at 645 Fort St #201, Victoria, BC V8W 1G2
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Sat 9:00am-6:00pm, Sun closed)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking for clothing or items for the family and proceeds support The Salvation Army
- WHERE: 785 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N9
- WHEN: Hours (Mon-Sat 10;00am-5:00pm, Sun 11:00am-4:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking to support Women in Need by purchasing clothing, household items, and even furniture! They also have a few programs and grants for women experiencing challenges
- WHERE: 1810 Store St, Victoria, BC V8T 4R4
- WHEN: Hours (Mon, Wed-Sun 9:00am-10:00pm, Tues 8:00am-10:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking for yourself or the whole family and you have time to sort; the store is large and carries a wide variety of items.
- WHERE: 546 Herald St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S6
- WHEN: Hours (Mon closed, Tues-Sat 10;00am-6:00pm, Sun 10:00pm-4:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking for unique furniture pieces or household items for you home!
- WHERE: 523 Pandora St, Victoria, BC V8W 1N6
- WHEN: Hours (Mon – Sun 11:00-6:00)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking for quality apparel with numerous natural fiber options!
- WHERE: 2013 Government st, Victoria, British Columbia V8T 4N9 (Slightly outside of DVBA boundaries)
- WHEN: Hours (Tues- Sat 10:00am – 5:00pm)
- WHY YOU SHOULD GO: If you’re looking for consignment designer fashions!
Super happy after a successful day of thrift shopping.
