You are thrifting wrong, and here is why. By Kiki Pape

Wear your ‘grandma’s coat’ in the right way 

Written by Kiki Pape

I never thought I would be revealing my secrets, but here we go.

I am a chronic vintage shopper; sometimes I go overboard. But admitting a problem is the first step, am I right?

With all that experience, I gathered some tips and tricks for finding the best fashion in the most unusual places.

Buying from a thrift shop or shopping vintage is so important, not only for the environment but also for many other reasons.

First of all, it's usually one-of-a-kind. I am so sick of seeing the same mini skirt from Amazon or an Urban Outfitters corset when we all know you are going to wear that item for at least a year before buying something new because Hailey Bieber or Kendall Jenner is now making something else trendy.

Yes, it is a great satisfaction to get your item ‘perfectly’ as soon as possible. But the struggle and commitment are so much better in the end. Knowing that no one else found it but you. A satisfying treasure hunt in the end. Especially getting that “high” when you tell someone you ‘thrifted’ the item they complimented you on.

Another reason why thrifting is elite is that when you are someone who loves to keep up with trends as much as me, you find yourself forking over tons of money each month, so why not create your own personal style at vintage shops? It might not always look the same as your inspiration photo, but do we really need to copy each other?

Because, as we all know, fashion just cycles through time.

Now we all know why vintage shopping is so important, now here are my secrets;

1. When you enter the store, check out what is immediately on display, usually nicer items, and try to get to them first.

2. Search in unlikely areas: underneath, on top of, or even inside items. You’ll find what people are coming back for.

3. Check out all genders and sizes; clothing is subjective! Look everywhere, you’ll never know what you’ll find: a cropped tee, an oversized sweatshirt, a vintage sports jacket.

4. Dressing rooms are where “the lost toys are found.” Someone else's trash can be your treasure. Especially because no one wants to put their rejects back in their section.

5. Books, movies, and art are misrepresented; there are lots of secret finds! (More chic when finding art at the thrift store.)

6. Ask around! Thrifting can be a community! You’ll never know what secret finds, deals, and places you are missing out on in your own community.

7. Take your time and pick up items when they feel good to you. You don’t have to love the item right away, but carrying it around might trick your brain into picking up other items.

8. Wash your clothes before wearing them! You never know who was wearing your shoes… or pants.

9. Shop with intention. Know what kind of items you are looking for: “I am looking for a long dress” tricks your brain into searching for that item and vibe.

10. Make this an activity, not a challenge. Fashion is meant to be the easiest part of your day. Not a challenge, but an area to create.

    
    

Vintage shopping should be shared with all! When you have a moment for yourself to go to a store and take a moment to intentionally shop for yourself or a loved one. There’s no need to gatekeep where to go or what to do, because there are millions, billions, or trillions of pieces out there looking to be rescued, restyled, and given a new home.