As I walk around campus, I notice so many name brands: Michael Kors, Coach, Lily, Polo, just to name a few. Sure, these brands have nice quality clothes, but most of what you're paying for is the logo. Of course there's nothing wrong with wearing high-end clothes, just some people simply don't have the money, and even if they do, they don't like to spend it on something they might wear once or twice. That's where thrift shops come in.
Often times, you can find name brand clothing at thrift stores, gently worn for less than half the price. And a lot of the items are in good or even great condition. If they're not, the thrift stores usually donate them to charity. In fact, I often give a lot of my clothes to thrift or consignment shops when they don't fit me anymore. I've had so many people ask me, "Where'd you get that?" for me to reply "A thrift store," and have them be astonished because of the quality of the clothes. Just the other day, I bought a brand-new shirt, tags still attached, that was originally worth $30 for just $5. Needless to say, I got cute new clothes without having to break the bank.
Personally, I love going to thrift shops. I have no shame in walking into a thrift store and picking out clothes or shoes or even books. Usually, there's a great selection, and I don't have to think twice about spending my money. Even if financially, you have no other choice than to shop at thrift shops, you shouldn't feel ashamed for being frugal. Anyone is able to shop at thrift stores at any time. Like I said, why spend $500 when you can spend $50?
