8 Things to Always Buy at a Thrift Store | Thrifting Tips

In this post, I’ll share my favorite items that I nearly always find at thrift stores, along with my best thrifting tips and tricks.

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8 Things to Always Buy at a Thrift Store - Thrifting Tips

Welcome to the exciting world of thrifting, where every trip feels like a treasure hunt. From the satisfying reveal of a hidden gem to the thrill of the hunt, there’s no feeling quite like it.

Thrifting offers an irresistible opportunity to score unique finds at budget-friendly prices. As we become increasingly conscious of sustainable shopping, thrifting emerges as the perfect blend of eco-friendliness and creativity. Instead of feeding into the whirlwind of consumerism, breathing new life into pre-loved items is both rewarding and imaginative.

Each thrifted find carries its own history, inviting reflection on the stories that an old mirror or a worn-out book might tell.

Over time, thrifting has transformed from a niche pastime into a full-blown mainstream movement. The charm of discovering something truly unique adds personality to your space while supporting sustainability. It resembles a treasure hunt, where the thrill lies in stumbling upon designer gems or quirky pieces that resonate with your personal style. The cherry on top is leaving with not only a bag full of intriguing items but also the satisfying feeling of contributing to a greener lifestyle.

Thrifting Tips & Things I (almost exclusively) Thrift

Books: Always take a moment to browse the book section! Unless I have a specific title in mind that I need brand new, I love exploring the shelves for hidden gems. Often, I stumble upon books that are relatively new or even on my past ‘To Be Read’ lists, saving myself a bundle by buying them secondhand.

Besides novels, I also adore coffee table books. The selection of large, hardcover volumes on topics like fashion, art, travel, and homemaking is just incredible. I even pick up interesting ones about vintage cars or history for my husband, who’s a fan of those subjects. Our collection has slowly grown over the years and has become a delightful mix to peruse on a lazy Sunday.

Serveware: You can often discover great quality bowls, trays, decanters, and more at thrift stores. If mixing and matching sets is your thing, this is especially perfect. I aim for a cohesive look by sticking to materials like white, cream, glass/crystal, brass, and silver. These elements blend beautifully, even if they hail from different collections. For special occasions, themed parties, or holidays, I often snag a few colorful pieces to add a bit more interest to my tablescape designs.

Seasonal Decor: Speaking of holidays, I almost exclusively buy seasonal or holiday decor from thrift stores. I like to keep it minimal and reuse items year after year. My rule? If a storage bin is full, it’s time to donate and refresh with new “thrifted” pieces, keeping that overwhelming “too much stuff” feeling at bay.

Mirrors: You won’t find a better selection of mirrors anywhere else! Unique shapes, quality materials like wood and brass, and unbeatable prices make thrifted mirrors a steal. Many new big-box stores charge a pretty penny, but at the thrift store, you might even catch one on a 50% off day – now that’s a score!

Lamps: If you’re part of the “no overhead lights” club and prefer cozy ambient lighting, head to your local thrift store’s lighting section. Nearly every table lamp I own is thrifted, with styles ranging from vintage and ornate to modern and sleek. Sometimes, you can even find matching sets for bedside tables (I’m on the hunt for a perfect pair myself!). You can also often find unique lampshades for upcycling an old lamp. Pro tip: Test the lamps before you buy. Some thrift stores have extension cords or plugs for this purpose.

Hobby Supplies: Yarn, ribbon, paper notebooks – these are thrift store staples! You can find bins brimming with crafting supplies at incredibly low prices. If sewing’s your passion, check out the linens and bedding section. I’ve scored fabric by the yard for just a few dollars, like $3 for 5 yards of lovely jacquard fabric – practically unheard of at a typical fabric store.

@laurajadeprado biggest slay is my thrifted purse collection 👜✨ #thriftfinds #thrifttok ♬ som original – henrique

Accessories: Specifically handbags, belts, and scarves. Occasionally jewelry too, but that might warrant a whole other post! The quality of thrifted handbags is amazing, and you can discover something in every style, shape, and color. From everyday totes to intricately beaded evening bags, it’s a treasure trove. Accessories like these add longevity and versatility to your wardrobe.

Baskets and Brass: I’m always on the lookout for these materials. Most of my brass candlestick holders are thrifted, as are my baskets. Available in all shapes and sizes, they’re perfect for storing everything from magazines to craft supplies, and even small items like keys and sunglasses.

The beauty of thrifting lies in its unpredictability – the thrill of what you might uncover next is like opening a mystery box every time you step into a store. Each outing is a chance to explore the past and breathe new life into items that others have previously cherished. It’s a great way to express your personal style while contributing to a more sustainable world.

So, next time the urge to shop strikes, consider perusing the aisles of your local thrift store. Whether you’re hunting for a new addition to your bookshelf, a unique piece of serveware for your next dinner party, or a playful accessory to amp up your wardrobe, the thrift store has got you covered.

Not only will you save some serious cash, but you’ll also relish the joy of discovering pieces that are as unique and vibrant as you are. Here’s to thrifting – where creativity meets adventure, and every find is a major win!

Looking for more inspo!? Check out my Pinterest for tons of lifestyle, DIY, and crafting inspo… updated daily!

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Xx- Laura

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