Thrifting has become very popular, almost as popular as Shein. I have found some of the best pieces in my closet from thrift stores. The clothes are unlike most of what would be in a department store, mostly because they’re outdated.

For some styles, this is a must. There was a revival of mid 2000s “Twilight core,” which didn’t last long, so short in fact that clothing companies couldn’t catch on in time. 

If you want to be on board with a Tik Tok trend, you oftentimes have to source from an ever-present, ever-bountiful local.

I don’t agree with thrift stores becoming the new Shein, praised for cheap convenience, but it is certainly the better option of the two.

As a result of the pandemic a lot of dressing rooms at thrift stores have been closed, so it can be a bit of an open bag, but that’s a part of the bounty. 

In addition to the unique pieces at Goodwill or some other, the Dallas Vintage Costume Shop also has some finds. 

This time of year everything is marked up drastically, but outside of October the value is fairly reasonable. It’s not as cost-effective as other places, but I estimate it’s just under what you’d pay for the same thing at Nordstroms. Only difference is, at Nordstroms they wouldn’t have it to begin with. 

Finding clothes to represent your style is not easy, but once you have them the effort otherwise spent mixing and matching (and still discontent) is saved. From that point, all there is is to wash and hang them, but I understand that can be hard too.

My closet became a jumbling mess in these past weeks, but I so much rather have my piles be of clothes I actually wear. That way, you’re more apt to pluck from the top. 

I think most people by the time of senior year have figured out what they do and do not feel good wearing, but if they haven’t then it’s probably due to a lack of range. I shopped at the same three stores most of my upbringing and all that time was lost as to why I didn’t feel good in what I bought. It was simple: I was shopping at the wrong places. 

Venture out, see what the thrift store has to offer. If you don’t like that, try somewhere else. Pinterest has some great inspiration, but the usually annoying ads may now actually be of some use. Whatever the case, wearing clothes that you feel comfortable and confident in are a worthy endeavor.