What to Look for When Thrifting this Summer
We love thrifting for myriad reasons: it’s sustainable, it produces one-of-a-kind pieces and it gives you free range in assembling your style. The treasure hunt is all fun and games, but our heart aches when a golden thrifted piece is worn only once. Here we have some tips on what to look for when thrifting for summer fashions to help ensure you find items that will be long-lasted and well worn.
In our beloved category of denim, it’s hard to go wrong. Typically, we desire finding Levi’s in their vintage form, but we do not need to limit ourselves to certain brands, especially when thrifting. Make sure to take a look at the back pockets when investigating denim with potential. The positioning of these pockets will either make or break the pants in giving your booty that shape and lift we long for. Back pockets will help narrow down what denim to look deeper into.
Now that we have determined what denim will best accent your natural curves, we can dive into the realm of style. Many times second-hand denim will not have the perfect legs; too short, too long, cut jagged. Don’t fear, we have a fix and it involves a pair of scissors and tweezers, giving you the power of creativity in repurposing your denim. Thrifting a pair of jeans to purposely cut into shorts is my personal go-to.
Pro tip: Check out the men’s or boy’s section for a pair of jeans to reassemble. Maybe the jeans you found and love have gaucho legs (side note: we absolutely love that right now), but maybe you don’t! Simply cut off the legs to your desired short length and fray the edges by pulling loose threads with a tweezer.
Going even further, you can cut a cute rip in the butt of your denim, sew on fabric for a patchwork look, or add safety pins to hold together a hole that may be bigger than originally planned for.
Aside from adding your creative touch to a pair of thrifted denim, there are a few styles that we are looking at for this summer. Remember those gaucho jeans we previously mentioned? Yup, we were serious! Wide leg pants are all the rage this summer; and why shop for new when you can easily seek a thrift store and pick up some vintage? Next on the list are any and all low rise. Yes, the early 2000s are back and we are taking a look at low rise flare, boot cut, and even loose and baggy that perfectly hug the pelvis. Once again,
Pro tip: Look for a pair of baggy jeans that will fit this trend in the men’s section.
Image Courtesy: The Edge
When thrifting, we know we will run into the classics. This meaning, vintage graphic tees, embroidered button ups, sweater vests, and so many other treasures from the 60s-70s-80s. Graphic tees absolutely never grow old. No matter how many you thrift, it is guaranteed that they will be worn over and over again. Vintage button ups are extremely useful for summertime fashions as well. These are a great find and useful for throwing over a bikini for a beach day or over a tank top for a day-to-night look. Next, as we mentioned, the 2000s are back! Skip purchasing a copy cat silky top and thrift one instead.
Pro tip: When looking for these Y2K tanks, try checking out the lingerie and undergarments sections. You may even find a corset or two.
Finally, we suggest looking for silk head scarves. These are a summer essential as they can be used in so many different ways. One day you may use the scarf to hold your hair back, the next: try wearing it as a top. Let alone, there are a million and one ways to tie your scarf top; bandeau, halter top, criss crossed, you name it.
We wish you luck in your thrifting endeavors!
Strike Out,
Writer: Natalie Hernesman
Editor: Danielle Cuestas
Tampa
