Thrift Tips #3: Vintage Shmintage

Its Tuesday  and time for more Thrift Tips. This week, I want to talk about the non-vintage side of thrifting. Yeah, we all want to find that perfect vintage dress but sometimes the best finds are relatively current items.

For example, check out these two secondhand outfits: Both have vintage elements but they feature modern blouses...




This one was inspired by the 1930s.

And this one was inspired by the 1970s.

The blouse in the 30s look is a posh Ralph Lauren silk blouse that was probably made withing the last 5 years. The 70s look, on the other hand, is originally from Charlotte Russe. Most of the time, I try to avoid mall  brands like C.R. or forever 21 and discount brands like Exhilaration or Mossimo when I thrift. They are usually appallingly trendy and of low quality. But when I see something I really like I do sometimes make an exception. The Charlotte Russe blouse in question may not be the most well constructed blouse in the world but it has really cute details and filled a hole in my wardrobe.

Keep in mind that some shops (Urban Outfitters, Target) donate their un-sold clearance items to thrifts stores. Don't be surprised if you come across new-wtih-tags kimchi and blue or Luxe at a thrift shop. When I worked at urban I boxed up those brands for donation quite a bit.They aren't the highest quality items, to be honest. But if you can find them for under 5 bucks, who cares?

The bottom line is: don't obsess over vintage finds when you thrift. Keep your eye out for quality modern pieces too. Quality, fit, and style are more important than age.

Thanks for reading! Tune in next Tuesday for more Thrift Tips.