There is always that pang of jealousy and regret when you ask someone where they got that cute skirt from. Why didn’t I get it first? Why aren’t I wearing it now? How recently did she get it? Will it look bad if I get the same one? And when they tell you they got it from Goodwill, the jealousy stings a little more.
It’s the thrill of finding something that looks like an Urban Outfitters classic when in reality it was $3 at your local thrift store. The most compliments I have gotten on my clothing items have been from my consignment store endeavors.
You are almost commended more for finding a cheap, worn item than you are for saving for that brand name one-of-a-kind dress. Instead, you are more respected for happening upon a baggy dress from the early-’90s and belting it.
Searcy’s own pride and joy, Barkin’ Barn, reigns supreme in the world of thrifting. With each clothing item ringing up as $1 or less, you can’t beat it. Its awkward hours and cluttered atmosphere make it a little difficult to fully commit to the gems that lie beyond the doors of Barkin’ Barn at first. I am here to tell you that the digging and rummaging is completely worth it in the end.
I now go to Goodwill and feel like I am paying too much for what I’m getting. Just a simple snip of the shoulder pads in their dresses and shirts, and Barkin’ Barn can provide you with a cheap unique vintage ensemble. Even if the item is worn once, that dollar you spend is less money than what you would spend on a large happy hour cherry limeade from Sonic.
Now, there is such a thing as thrift store overload. Getting too comfortable with the styles of the ’80s and ’90s can be dangerous. Sometimes people get too creative, and a little too gutsy, putting patterns together that really don’t match and buying things that really don’t fit. “I’ll have to work with it,” they’ll tell you. Even if thrifting is trendy, not everything thrifty is pleasing to the eyes.
The trick behind the thrifting process is getting things that do not look like they came fresh out of the gates of Goodwill. That means no fading, tears, holes or unnecessary bagginess. There’s also something about a suit dress that I’m not completely sold on either. Thrifting is a glorious thing, but getting caught in the trap of cheap deals and cheap thrills can be addictive.
