Maximize Your Thrift Experience with these 5 Tips

If you’re looking for tips and tricks to master the art of thrifting, I got you!

by Marian Luisa Palo
Photos by Lei Arthreo Sedero
November 27, 2023

Thrifting is a ‘now’ thing… which is great! Not only can it save you a lot of money, it also is guaranteed that your fashion picks will stand the test of time more than overpriced fast fashion pieces—plus, you’re saving the environment.

I happen to love thrifting and if you’re eyeing to finally give it a try, I visited local ukay-ukay shops and specially crafted a list of tips and tricks to experiment and maximize the thrifting experience.

Vibe check

You might see thrifting enthusiasts on the internet hopping from one ukay-ukay shop to another, but really, if the vibe is right the moment you set foot into a shop, there is no need to go to more than two! It’s not a bad idea to find the shop that calls your heart, but you have to keep in mind that you’ll be needing all that energy to scour the isles. And, honestly, if you’re positive about your thrifting game, any shop will serve you as you serve looks.

Have a concept in mind

A good thrifting game requires a mental style guide. It’s always a good idea to know what you need (or want) and have a concept in mind before going thrifting. You do not want to be dissatisfied about your finds, so know what aesthetic you are going for. But, don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone too! I, for one, found my own style because of unexpected finds.

Don’t skip on the promos and discounts

New arrivals are usually better-looking—let’s be honest, but they are a bit pricier and thrifting is all about finding the best fashion pieces, even branded ones, without hurting your wallet. Ukay-ukay shops have promos where you can buy two or three (or even five!) items at the price of one and less. Go fulfill your experience by bagging the promo and on-sale items!

Take your time on the racks

Don’t worry, even I become quite passive when racks and racks of clothes are calling my name, but finding the best pieces takes patience and dedication. The key really is to go through the hangers piece-by-piece, so you can achieve your fashionista agenda. Just don’t be too aggressive in doing so that you forget to be considerate of the customers around you!

Be altruistic and give back

While thrifting is celebrated as a ‘now’ thing with people flocking to shops, let’s not be too greedy and forget that there are other people who need these accessible and affordable clothes—maybe, more than you. You can both be a thrift fashionista and an altruistic shopper. At the same time, if you find yourself needing to declutter your closet, it’s always a good idea to give back and donate it to your local ukay-ukay!

I bet a lot of us grew up grinning at the idea of going thrifting and buying secondhand clothes, but it’s a step forward that we’re unlearning that, as there’s a cause to it. Tons of used clothes only end up in mountains and mountains of landfills. In patronizing and mastering the art of thrifting, you too are being an advocate for sustainability.

So, the next time you look in the mirror and feel the need to amp up your style the budget-savvy but environment-friendly way, run to your local thrift shop and try these tips!