Goodwill, Savers, Salvation Army; thrifting for clothes is a great way to find cute looks on a college budget. Not only are things cheap, but you can also find things that are unique and one of a kind.
1. Hand sanitizer or gloves
Before you leave for your thrifting adventure, make sure you bring hand sanitizer or gloves! Clothes are usually not washed or not washed thoroughly before being put out on the rack, so it's a good idea to ensure your hands are clean after you dig through the piles of clothes.
2. Dress to try things on over it
If you're planning on trying on clothes before you buy, consider wearing leggings, a tank top, or a zip-up hoodie. When you find something you like, it's easy to slip a pair of pants on over your leggings or throw a jacket on over your tank top. This way, you won't get dirty from the clothes, as well.
3. Check clothes thoroughly for rips, tears, or stains
When you find an article of clothes, keep in mind it likely has a few blemishes. Check everywhere for torn seams, rips or holes, or stains. If there are, be sure you're ok with it the imperfections before you commit to buying it.
4. Considering altering clothes to look better
If you find something that has imperfections or just isn't quite your style, consider channeling your creativity and altering it! You can try to cut, sew, or paint to individualize your clothes and improving it. My personal favorite is cropping baggy, size XL shirts.
5. Visit often
Thrift shops will restock often with new things that people will snatch up, so be sure you frequently check. Find out when your favorite thrift store restocks so you'll be there when they cycle new items onto the shelves.
6. Reselling Apps
Consider buying from reselling apps such as Depop or Poshmark. Even though they are marked up higher, sellers on these apps have already done the searching in thrift stores for you. Even though you don't get the hunt, it's quick and easy to search for exactly what you want.