Autumn Red // Secondhand Shopping


   Hello all! Tonight, I have a two-fold post to share with you. First, I would like to show you one of my newest clothing items. Next, I have some reader-inspired content per Tabitha's idea (thanks!), in which I will be sharing tips for buying clothing secondhand. I look forward to continuing to implement my reader's post ideas.



    Bright red isn't a color that I typically wear large amounts of, but this short-sleeved jacket has become an exception. Its classy cut and cute details make it a welcome addition to my closet. Today, I paired it with my black pants for work and layered with a black henley shirt. A leather bracelet and a sparkly bracelet were layered to add a bit of personality. Finally, I tucked my pants into brown riding-style boots, giving the outfit a classic look.

Outfit Details: Jacket ~ Consignment Store; Shirt ~ Borrowed from Mom; Pants ~ Forever21
Leather/Ribbon Bracelet ~ Made by Mom; Beaded Bracelet ~ Gift; Boots ~ Ross


Tips for Secondhand Shopping

-Know the Difference and Shop Accordingly 
There are two common kinds of second-hand stores that sell clothing. First, there are thrift stores (or charity shops). Thrift stores take donations from the community and a part of the profit goes to help a charitable organization. Second, there are consignment stores. Here, those who contribute items will either receive part of the proceeds or get store credit. Usually, consignment stores have a higher standard quality, and higher prices.

-Learn the Lay of the Land
Not all second-hand stores organize the same way. Be prepared to filter by the color or type of clothing, then by size. If you are a specific size, you will most likely hunt for it in "S", "M", "L" or "Plus" areas.

 -Don't Be Daunted By Dirt
To be honest, some stores just feel a little bit gross, even if the clothing has been laundered. Sometimes it's hard to put your finger on just why, while other times it's obvious. Do not let this deter you from finding hidden treasure! Just be prepared to wash what you buy, which is a good habit to be in no matter what the store's atmosphere.

-Don't Buy Everything Just Because It's Inexpensive
Closets get full quite easily! Even if you are overwhelmed by low prices, don't be tempted to run off with half the store. Do your wallet and your wardrobe a favor by buying only things that you really like or need.

-When in Doubt, Ask About Dressing Rooms
As with other stores, some secondhand stores require an employee to open a dressing-room  for you, and also may have an item limit. It doesn't hurt to ask if there is an available room when you aren't sure whether you can walk in or not. One particular store that I visit when out of town has employees who ask if customers would like them to take their items and start a room for them while they shop.

I hope these tips help! 
Would you add anything to the list?

There is desirable treasure,
And oil in the dwelling of the wise,
But a foolish man squanders it.
He who follows righteousness and mercy
Finds life, righteousness, and honor.
Proverbs 21:20-21

Comments

  1. Oh, this is such a stylish outfit, Paige! I am loving that red short sleeved jacket...I have something similar (bought second-hand!), only it has long sleeves. Red is one of my favourite colours to wear - folk say it just works for me...always good! {{smiles}}

    And these are fabulous tips! I never used to like second hand clothing...I think it was due to the bad experience I had in the past...so many people felt the need to pass on their old clothes to us...some of which had to go in the trash, they were so bad! Really, it amazes me that someone could actually give away clothing with holes and that in them! Haha! But thankfully I have had the blessing of finding good quality clothing through second-hand stores recently and also through friends...
    I think one tip I would add to this list is to be prepared to spend a lot of time in a second-hand clothing store! It takes quite awhile to sift through everything and find the things that you'd see yourself wearing...but oh, is it worth it! {{smiles}}
    Lovely post, dear friend!
    Have a wonderful day...and happy November!
    Hugs,
    Kelly-Anne

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    Replies
    1. Thank you my friend! Ooh, how fun. I can see how red would be a lovely color on you. :)
      Thanks! I'm glad you found some secondhand clothes that you like. And that is definitely a very good tip. So true!

      Delete
  2. I spend hours in charity shops (it is a bit like a hobby) and often find bargains which I post on my blog.

    I try not to buy things which I don't need but if I do, or find I don't like something or it doesn't fit correctly, I donate it back and the charity benefits again.

    Your red jacket looks great. I don't wear red very often either. You always look smart in your work pants - they suit you. I have started to wear trousers again now it is getting chilly.

    Take care

    Rebecca

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    Replies
    1. That's so awesome! :) It's great that you give back to the charity if you don't end up liking something.
      Well thank you so much! :D

      Delete
  3. Great tips! :) I like your top! :) We're always going to charity (trift) shops!

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  4. What a beautiful red jacket! You seldom wear pants,you look very nice. Such a cute hair style:) Great tips, really appreciate your thoughtfulness. Have a great start to the month of November;) Stephanie

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Stephanie! Yes, I usually try to wear skirts and dresses, but pants are easier sometimes - and they can be classy!
      Thanks! Same to you. <3

      Delete
  5. I think Kelly-Anne is right time is important factor. You can't go thrifting if you just have 20 minutes, you need a big block of time to look through everything like an hour or so.
    I also think it's a good idea to carry hand sanitizer so in case your hands feel dirty after been in the shops.

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    Replies
    1. Yes, this is very true.
      Ooh, good tip! We always have baby wipes in our car and use them to wash up often!

      Delete
  6. Thanks for sharing these second-hand shopping tips! I just had a good haul thrift-shopping last week: an awesome pair of leather boots, lovely brown leather kitten heels, and yet another pair of shoes that I don't know how to describe (very boring business-style type but not flats).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Quite welcome Bethany! Ooh, fun. I hope to see pictures of your new boots at some point *hint-hint* ;)

      Delete
  7. Hello Paige! I just stumbled across your blog, and I must say how I've enjoyed looking through it! I really like your style - and would so wear so many of the outfits that you have put together. :) Thanks so much for your views on modesty and living them out. I enjoy thrift-shopping, but sometimes struggle with finding things I will wear (my build and my being very picky on what I'll wear). But just yesterday I find 3 tops that I'm quite happy with - yay! ;) Thanks for taking the time to post, and you can be sure that I will continue reading!

    I really like this outfit you have in this post. I have 2 pairs of boots and struggle with how to wear them. They aren't knee-high boots, but also taller than ankle boots. Most of my skirts hit at that awkward length of right when the boot starts, so I normally shy away from wearing them, but I always enjoy seeing outfits when the boots are worn very fashionably, which I think you did great in this outfit!

    Keep serving Christ! -Bethany

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    Replies
    1. Thanks so much for your sweet comment Bethany! I am glad that you enjoy my blog and happy to "meet" you. :D Hurray for finding three great tops!
      Oh, yes, I know what you mean about the awkward skirt/boot length! I often wear the boots anyway, but it's definitely not a favorite look. Haha!

      Delete

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