I love thrifting.

Under the "you can find me..." question in my senior bio for the high school yearbook, I decided to answer with "Goodwill." Because...why say something cool?

Although I hesitate to give Macklemore credit (for anything...ever), his 2012 smash hit "Thrift Shop" did make a trend out of shopping at consignment stores. I saw even some of my more name-brand-loyal friends at the local Salvation Army. Despite the fact that I'm of the party that believes Macklemore should Mackle-less, this was exciting. I think everyone should give consignment stores a go.

Whether you're a consignment newbie or a seasoned thriftier, here are five tips for a successful visit to any second-hand store.

1. Patience

Thrifting is a lot like falling in love: sometimes you have to kiss a few frogs before you find your princess/prince charming. In this case, you may have to spend an hour sorting through a rack of musty t-shirts while Barry Manilow croons in the background before you find a single thing worth purchasing. It's a tedious process, but the reward is worth it. Plus, you get to feel like a low-budget Indiana Jones (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Goodwill) in search of hidden treasure, whether it's an authentic band tee or a designer skirt. It's a thrilling experience.

2. Pay attention to material

5. Donate

Thrift stores do fabulous things for the community, as well as keep more out of landfills. Do your part and donate what you don't wear; give your clothes a second (or third, or fourth!) life. As they say, one man's trash is another man's treasure. Keep the cycle going.