Maya Chene
This is the perfect time to talk about thrifting. Our school has opened up its very own thrift shop. With prices ranging from 1$ to 5$ you can stay within your budget and find hidden gems. Don’t forget to pass by O309, open on Wednesdays every week.
Why buy from thrift shops ?
#1 Save money: I do believe this is the most common reason people go to thrift stores. But if you only know thrift stores like Estrie Aide, where a used pair of jeans can cost up to 20$, I invite you to explore even more affordable thrift shops like the multiple Comptoirs Familiales around town.
#2 Help our environment: Buying new clothes, following the trends, and updating your wardrobe may seem innocent when you do not see the bigger picture. But with thousands of people buying from fast fashion industries and throwing away their used clothes, textile waste has doubled in the last 20 years. It takes at least 400 gallons of water to grow enough cotton to make one t-shirt, and a pair of jeans needs at least 1,800 gallons. On top of that, the pesticides used to grow cotton are harmful to the ecosystems around. Encourage recycling clothes, buy from and give to thrift shops.
#3 The thrill of the hunt: Is one of my favorite sentences as a thrifting lover. Make a day out of your thrifting activities, take the time to enjoy yourself as you hunt to find those hidden gems, thrift flip some clothes, find unique pieces that are no longer available anywhere else.
#4 One time use: Ugly sweaters are a perfect example. Why spend 20$ on an Urban Planet ugly sweater when there are plenty of tacky Christmas-themed sweaters in thrift stores?
#5 Emergency clothing: I don't know about you guys, but I am all over the place when it comes to packing. Going hiking but it’s a little too hilly for you? Going to the beach but your bathing suit is in the wrong bag ? Stop by the thrift store for cheap emergency items.
And now for what you were waiting for
Thrifting tips.
#1 Wear tight clothes: Some thrift stores don’t have changing rooms. It is hard to to really see how a skirt or a pair of jeans fit over sweatpants. Plan ahead and wear tight tops and bottoms.
#2 Bring cash: Most larger thrift stores take debit or credit but some smaller thrift stores or antique shops owned by individuals only accept cash. And after an amazing find, you definitely don’t want to leave that piece behind.
#3 If you are looking for a baggy look, the men’s section will provide: This one is mostly for the ladies. Personally, I haven’t had much luck in women’s jeans for a more wide leg fit, but in the men’s I have found endless baggy jeans who only need small adjustments. Same goes for t-shirts and flannels. And for the boys, simply size up!
#4 Spot those isles: What are you looking for? If you aren’t one to enjoy the thrill of the hunt, thrifting can be long and draining. If you don’t enjoy the actual shopping part, find a clear goal. Are you looking for something chic? Go straight to the suits and dresses. Want some lingerie? Find that aisle. Sportswear? There has to be a section!
#5 The perfect thrift store?: Some of my best thrift finds have either been in wealthy towns where people donate better quality things, or in very small unknown thrift shops where the best items haven’t yet been discovered. So my advice to you my beloved thriftees, is to shop in wealthier neighborhoods, or smaller, less known thrift shops.
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