The Trash to Treasure Approach

Don't get me wrong; I love the basics.

Mainstream, fashion-forward stores offering seasonal collections and essential pieces have consistently met my expectations. However, I'm not entirely sure if it's considered unconventional or unique to admit that my favorite store out of them all is Goodwill. While these trending clothing brands often have extensive selections of items, they simply can't compare to the endless racks upon racks of one-of-a-kind, original pieces. In contrast to the conventional and repetitive styles we see online, every item at Goodwill is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

For me, thrifting means more than any other shopping trip; it's an admiration for originality and sustainability. Thrifting is about sourcing unique, high-quality pieces while also reducing waste. This beloved trend in the fashion industry begins with appreciating the exclusive stories behind each individual piece. Over the years, I have fallen head over heels for thrifting because I know it's a style revolution worth embracing.

Sustainable chic is not just a passing trend; it's here to stay. The fashion industry contributes a staggering amount of pollution and waste worldwide through its manufacturing processes. Shopping for second-hand items gives these products a new lease on life and reduces the volume of clothing that ends up in landfills.

Thrifting can be an overwhelming experience for some shoppers, so here are some of my personal tips to navigate the overflowing racks:

  1. Go into it with a vision. Thrifting requires prep work to maximize your shopping experience. My favorite way to visualize what I am looking for before hitting the stores is by scrolling through my favorite app, Pinterest. Crafting a board with outfits that inspire me allows me to notice trends among my preferences that I plan on recreating when stepping foot into my favorite thrift stores. Sometimes, I can't tell if I'm leaning toward streetwear or a more feminine vibe, but piecing together a cohesive collection of images helps give me direction. Check out the TU Fashion Pinterest page for more inspiration!

  2. Be intentional about the sections you are looking through. If you are looking for a date night dress and feel comfortable rocking a slip, skip the dress section. More often than not, there is actually a great selection in the lingerie or sleepwear section. If streetwear is more your style, look at the men's tees; the graphics are grungy and perfectly worn in to provide an oversized slouch.

  3. Support local thrift stores! Smaller, more local thrift stores have been less picked through than the larger chains, giving greater chances to find hidden gems. Some cool options in New Orleans to check out include Bridge House Thrift Store, The Encore Shop, and Glue Clothing Exchange.

  4. When an item has potential, get creative. Revamping clothing can be intimidating, but if you trust the process and stay persistent, you will be surprised at how far a pair of scissors, an iron, or a needle and thread can take you! Whether it's hemming, dyeing, or adding a personal flare (like a patch or a bow), the clothing will now represent your style, and you can take pride in showing off your work.

By embracing thrifting, you make an eco-conscious choice and unlock a universe of fashion possibilities. So, consider exploring your nearest thrift shop for the next time you're in the mood for some retail therapy. You may come to realize that what one person sees as trash can truly be turned into someone else's valuable treasure.


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