8 Thrift Shopping Tips For Amateurs

There's nothing quite as intoxicating as bringing home a fantastic purchase at a great price. And while thrift shops used to get a bad rap (read: dusty dark stores filled with stuff nobody wants), there's been a recent Renaissance of second-hand stores that carry highly curated pieces of quality.

From coffee table books to antique wingback chairs or an amazing purse you won't find anywhere else, thrift shops are the perfect way to infuse something unexpected into your wardrobe or home. Celebrate Thrift Shop Day on Aug. 17 by hitting the stores armed with our tips and tricks.

Happy shopping!

Do think outside the box.

There are tons of odds an ends that end up in thrift shops that can be repurposed for another use. A vintage trophy cup or brass urn can make for a unique flower vase. A stack of colorful mismatched plates can be turned into cool wall decor. That being said...

...Don't force it.
When faced with tons of deals and steals, it can be tempting to buy something just because of the price tag and not because it's actually something you need. Are you ever going to wear that eccentric poncho that "would look just perfect with the right outfit?" Do you really have room on your wall for that rustic wagon wheel? If you go into a day of thrift shopping with a plan of what pieces you need, you're less likely to leave a store looking like an episode of "Hoarders."

Do look beyond the surface.

Oftentimes when buying secondhand furniture, you'll see a paint color that offends your senses or a piece of furniture with tattered upholstery. But don't be scared off by these surface-level problems. If a piece is well constructed (aka "has good bones") and you like the overall shape and design of it, you can always get it repainted or reupholstered to fit your aesthetic. Or if you're feeling handy, you can try doing these things yourself.

The same principle can be applied to clothing. If something's too long but you can't live without it, buy it and get it hemmed. Is there a small tear in the seam that's easy to patch up? Ask if the price can be reduced and take it to a tailor.

Don't forget to shop online.

These days there are tons of sites for second-hand clothing and furniture that are curated by size, style, you name it. Chairish has wonderful furniture and decor finds while Poshmark and Tradesy are great for clothing and accessories. Some of these sites allow you to make best offers and have free shipping on certain items.

Plus, many sites offer authentication on pieces over a certain price (so you don't get stuck with a knockoff Chippendale chair or Chanel bag). That being said, always use your judgement. Chances are you are not going to find a Van Gogh painting on eBay.

Do shop at thrift shops that support a good cause.

Many consignment shops that have amazing finds also donate their proceeds to amazing charities. For example, Goodwill provides job training and employment placement services for people who have barriers preventing them from finding a job, while Housing Works offers services to homeless and low-income New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS.

Find a shop that supports a charity you're passionate about, and you won't feel guilty about your shopping spree (right?). Bonus points if you donate some of your own unwanted goods while you're there.

Don't be afraid to make deals.

Is a zipper broken on a dress you like? Are you able to pay cash on a coffee table instead of credit card? While you should keep in mind that many thrift shop pieces are already highly discounted, you might catch even more of a deal just by asking (nicely, of course) and making a reasonable offer.

Do come prepared with tools.

If you're shopping for furniture or large decorative pieces, don't show up empty handed. You'll want a measuring tape (to make sure the item will fit in your house), moving blankets and possibly even a car or moving truck if your destination is far enough away.

Don't go secondhand for everything.

While thrift shops are fantastic for many things, there are certain items that you probably want to buy new. Some examples? Mattresses, cribs or car seats, makeup and halogen lamps (which are a fire hazard!). None of these should come as a surprise, but a friendly reminder never hurts.