Tips and Tricks for Thrifting in the C-U Area

By Melanie Smith

thrifting-like-a-boss-330x270 — *Credit: Upcycle.nyc*

1.) If you are planning on going thrifting around Chambana, make sure to have a day set aside for when you want to go and give yourself a couple of hours. Before you go, you can also browse clothing sites to see what the latest trends are if you want to snag more affordable or trendy items at the thrift store.

2.) Wear clothes to the thrift store that will be easy to take on and off for when you try on clothes – and trying on clothes is always recommended because sometimes sizes are off. Shopping will be easier if you go in having an idea of what you are looking for. For example, if you are specifically looking for jeans to DIY or vintage T-shirts, you can mainly focus your time in the jean and shirt section.

3.) Also, don’t be afraid to shop in the men’s section! You can find vintage looking T-shirts from the men’s section or oversized sweaters and jackets. Recently, oversized T-shirts and hoodies have become a trend.

4.) When you are looking at a clothing piece, try to note if there are any stains, rips, or tears. Inspect the hardware such as zippers, buttons, or snaps to see what condition they are in or if anything will need to be replaced. You can always ask the thrift store when they restock so you can shop right after they do in order to get first pick of the new arrivals.

5.) There is a Plato’s Closet, which is a secondhand clothing store in Champaign that only takes clothing, shoes and accessories that are currently trending. They even buy back clothes, so you can bring in clothing you no longer want and shop around while they look at your items. The Champaign-Urbana area is also home to a Salvation Army store and donation center, a Goodwill, and the Twice is Nice thrift shop. All of these stores are good places to start when you begin thrifting.

Happy thrift shopping!