My Love for Thrifting

Growing up, I had a disdain for thrifting (aka second hand shopping) mainly because my frugal Dad made the local thrift stores the pitstop for our back to school shopping. I remember walking back home and passing neighborhood kids who wondered why we were lugging around large black plastic bags.

Oversized Denim Jacket - thrift

Top and Skirt - thrift

My sister was the one who brought second hand shopping back into my adult life. During her time in undergrad, she became addicted thanks in part to her stylish thrifty friends. And when she'll come home to visit, she'd damn near beg me to come with her to thrift. At the time, I was convinced there was nothing for me in these stores considering my plus size figure. But my sis wasn't having it. Finally, I gave in. Still keeping in mind that they'll be no clothes in my size, I started off rummaging through the accessories section: earrings, necklaces, and bags. Very much impressed, I cautiously started checking out the women's section, keeping a very low expectation. But surprise surprise, I began to find some fantastic items.

Top and skirt - thrift

Camel coat - thrift

And here we are today. I'm hooked.

In partnership with my local Value Village and in celebration of Earth Month 2018, I wanted to let you know that second hand shopping is the way to go when it comes to sustainability and protecting the planet we live on. Now don't get me wrong, I'm with you when it comes to shopping at your favorite retail store. The feeling of purchasing a never been worn, spanking new item is a feeling worth having. But occasionally, give your wallet a break and check out your local thrift, vintage, or consignment store for the latest fashion trends. When second hand shopping, keep these bullet points in mind:

• 26 billion (!!!) pounds of clothing go into landfills each year. And guess what? 95% of these items can be recycled. Recycled in the sense of being donated to local second hand stores and giving it new life for someone else. 
• And in doing so, you're helping these second hand stores, like Value Village, to change the way people think about the disposal of clothing. They're building and maintaining a sustainable closet while making sure the landfills don't become laundry piles.
• Finally, second hand shopping doesn't break the bank. You can shop on a budget. Take for instance my most recent shopping trip to my local Value Village:

l-r
6th & LN (Lane Bryant) Printed Top
MSK Women Mixed Pattern Dress
Lauren Ralph Lauren Knit Top
R&M Richards Black/White Striped Sleeveless Top
Appleseed's Skirt Suit
Multi-Colored Sleeveless Top
Printed Midi Skirt

Grand total was less than $60. Plus I copped 4 pair of earrings. Oh yeah, and this was done during Value Village's 25% off Day using their Super Savers card. Let me tell you, this shopping trip was a steal! On average, a long sleeved printed top at a retail store would run you $15+. I got mine for $7.99. And a skirt suit set? $30 and up, for sure. But this set was $14.99 and honestly, that's expensive when it comes to second hand shopping. I'm serious! I can find a matching set for less than $10 on a good day. The other 'expensive' item was the mixed pattern dress for $11.49. I was thisclose to not buying it but hello, mixed pattern dress. It had to be mine.

But that's the thrill you get when shopping second hand: you never know what you'll get but best believe it'll be a great deal...while saving the planet.

Can't beat that.