When carefully selecting my first topic to discuss , I wrote down a number of thoughts and categories. The one that stood up and slapped me round the face was the art of ‘thrifting’. This topic is close to my heart and brings me more joy than it probably should. However, I used to find thrifting anything but joyful because i had no clue how to navigate this intense yet wonderful game!
I like to describe thrifting as a mindful practice, we’re not here for overconsumption. When i set out on a day of thrifting i always have a goal in mind to avoid walking home with something that will not serve me or my wardrobe…I have carefully honed my skills in discovering unique, timeless pieces that seamlessly intergrate into my wardrobe, ensuring they never lose their charm or relevance.
For example, my trusted winter coat, which has seen me though thick and thin, found tossed aside, looking sad in the corner of a London vintage market. She’s never torn, shes keeps her poise and structure, she’s served me both as a dress and an extra layer in the London down pours. I’ll never let her go. To this day, people ask me where she originated, it’s been a glorious 6 years with her!
Now, onto the good bits !
Here are a few points, some obvious and some I’ll explain in more detail - on how I like to thrift mindfully and successfully! LETS GOOO!
Key Points :
- PRE PLAN :
before the day of thrifting (if you are thrifting in the flesh) brows your saved Pintrest boards. Focus on the pins that have stood the test of time - those you’re still longing for. This way, you’ll keep the sparkly kitten heels that don’t quite match you’re wardrobe from luring you in ; they’re not on the list !! - I also draw inspiration from vogue.com, especially from shows between 1992-2003 - those golden years!! - However, you might more recent years resonates better with your style!
- COMFORT IS KEY BUT THERE ARE LIMITS :
Wear something comfortable, but also choose an outfit you’d typically wear day-to- day - like those go-to jeans or your favourite shoes. This way, you’ll have a base line to determine if your new found friend will fit well within your inner circle (your wardrobe)
- THE HIT LIST :
Thrifting can be somewhat tiresome for both the mind and body (I’m dramatic), so I like to choose three shops to focus on for my hit list. If I have extra energy, i might explore more, but I think this approach keeps the day light and relaxed. It helps prevent feeling overwhelmed by all the shiny distractions and will ensure you don’t over consume!
- EYE ON THE PRIZE :
I prefer to thrift alone to stay in the ‘focus zone’. This way, i wont be swayed by others opinions that might lead me into the wrong ‘look’ or ‘style’, allowing me to rely solely on gut feelings and instincts!
- GET ON THE NET:
I like to find sellers on depop or vinted who are similar size of style to me - for example, im 5.11, so when i find a pair of suit trousers that puddle perfectly on the seller, I want to know if the seller is at least 5.10. Usually you can ask the seller or find this information in the description. Trust me, i’ve made that mistake before!
These are my BIG 5 - simple and obvious yet highly effective, tried n tested by yours truly.
MY VINTAGE HOT SPOTS
I want to share my top five vintage spots that i hold dear, each offering a unique variety and price range. They’re my go-tos and my safe havens.. i’ve beloved them for a while ! Keep in mind, these may not be the perfect spots for you, but the shop next door just might be !
- 53 Hanbury St, London E1 5JP (just off brick lane) £
This place has an abundance of categories for all genders and has never failed me. The selections are carefully curated, making for a wonderful experience. Their shoe and coat selections are bloody wonderful!
west archive £££
If you’re looking to shop high-end designer items, West Archive is usually my go-to spot. This isn’t your everyday wear; it’s perfect for that special event or if you need a fabulous cocktail dress. If you’ve saved up for a particular item, this is the place to find it, thanks to their museum of carefully curated designer pieces.
Reign vintage £/££
Reign Vintage has two locations (I prefer the Soho one), offering a brilliant selection of both designer and vintage pieces. The price is mid-range but vary widely. I once purchased a glorious Alberta Ferretti skirt suit for £190, and a lovely cream chunky knit for £20, both of which I still find multipel ways to incorporate into my wardrobe and styling. The second location is in Stoke Newington is just as good, but personally prefer the smaller, more curated selection that the Soho location offers.
DEPOP seller : Kara kroa London
@karakroa
I love this depop seller, @Karakroa, beacuse she aligns perfectly with a similar sense of style, colours and textures i am drawn to - I’ve purchased from her many times, and everything has always been in great condition. You can tell she puts a lot of effort into curating her shop.
DEPOP seller : cheree cheree
@cheree__cheree
Cheree__cheree is the go-to for shoes !! While she offers much more than just footwear, her selection is truly outstanding. With range of sizes and prices, I find myself returning to her page over and over again. Her aesthetic is very 90’s, which perfectly aligns with the style i enjoy and generally gravitate towards when searching on Pintrest or when i am creating outfits at home.
And with that, I hope you enjoyed my first post. Happy thrifting !! Remember, it’s a mindful practice - wear comfy shoes and have a wonderful time x 🧘🏼♀️🧚🏼♀️❤️
Loved the article !!! Can’t wait for more 🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🫶🏻🫶🏻
I've been trying to not buy anything new for about a year --- big fan of secondhand shopping, been using some fun tools to make it easier like the chrome extension that finds me resale alternatives for the items I'm looking at as I shop bit.ly/Phia hope this helps you