Showing posts with label thrift store. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thrift store. Show all posts
December 29, 2011
Beauty Station
One of my favorite things in my room is the little station that I have set up. I don't have a large room so everything is condensed into one little area. I also don't like to have a lot of knickknacks on display, so bins and shelves were out of the question. Instead I took what once was used as a computer desk and turned it into storage for everything I could ever need for getting ready. It was perfect. I could have everything within arm's reach and could hide it all once I was done. I love it!
This desk was a thrift store find! It was sanded and stained. It has seven drawers in total, with three on each side and one in the middle.
Makeup is separated into categories and organized into bins or pencil trays that were purchased at the dollar store. Makeup brushes and hair tools are separated into tin pails that were purchased the dollar section at Target.
All of my hair products fit into one drawer. All of my hot hair tools are placed in a clay flower pot.
How do you organize your makeup and other beauty related products?
December 4, 2011
Thrift Store Tips
Have I mentioned how much I love thrift stores? To me it's like finding buried treasure. You sort, sift, search, scour, repeat. Sometimes you find something worth the time and effort. Sometimes you don't. That's what makes it fun. A lot of people would be overwhelmed walking into a thrift store for the first time so this post is for those people. Maybe you have thought about trying it out but don't know where to begin, or maybe you're skeptical about what you can find. Thrift store shopping can be chaotic, frustrating, a bit time-consuming, but don't let it stop you! Once you score those first great deals, you will be HOOKED!
First, think about how thrift store shopping can be beneficial:
1) It saves $$$. You're money will stretch far. Think about how much you pay for one item at a department store. Think about being able to buy 5-10 things for the cost of that one item.
2) It helps a good cause. Thrift stores are often owned by charity or non-profit organizations. Because the items are donated, the money from the sales help fund charities and community programs.
3) It's eco-friendly. You recycle cans, bottles, and re-use items for other purposes. Why not clothes too? You are giving life to an item that might otherwise have been thrown in the
garbage and keeping things out of the landfill.
4) There's a wide variety. When you shop at department and other retail stores, there's probably 50 other people who have that same exact item. Thrift stores offer one of a kind pieces that you can probably bet nobody else is wearing and you can't find anywhere else.
5) You get the thrill of the hunt. Finding an awesome item at a great price is always a good feeling!
6) Things are in better condition than you might think! Just because things are donated doesn't mean that they are all falling apart. Think about the stuff in your closet that hasn't been worn for a while. They are still in perfect condition, but maybe it's just not your style anymore or maybe you changed your mind about something you bought but it's too late to return so it's just hanging out in your closet. A lot of the store's inventory come from those situations. There are plenty of items with tags still attached!
7) You get to use your imagination. There aren't any mannequins or store ads telling you what to wear. This is wear you can expand your creativity and really make the style your own.
Before you go/store tips:
1) Try to go on a week day. The weekends can get very packed which can discourage you from really diving in and sorting through all the racks.
2) Ask a worker what days the store stocks new inventory. Then try to go as early as possible to have the best selection.
3) Find out if there are days that offer special discounts. A lot of stores offer an extra percentage off of certain tag colors or an extra percentage off the senior discount. Bring a grandparent!
4) Look out for coupons. I've seen coupons in my area's Pennysaver for up to 50% off a purchase total. Check your newspaper or any community ad/circular.
5) Wear the right the right clothes for shopping. You will be doing a lot of sifting. You don't want to get too hot while shopping.
6) Wear the right undergarments. Try to wear a strapless nude bra/underwear for trying things on. It's easier to envision a final outfit when you don't have a clashing bra strap peaking through or colorful underwear showing.
7) Bring cash. Usually stores accept debit/credit, but bring cash just in case.
8) Check reviews online. Find thrift stores that have good ratings. People will tell you what kinds of things can be found and if they got good deals on them.
9) Be willing to spend a little time looking. You don't want to miss out on a great deal because you're in a hurry!
10)Have fun! Just keep thinking that you will find something perfect! It's out there somewhere! It takes patience at times.
Shopping tips (Clothes):
1) Be open minded. Think of what you could do with an item instead of just looking at what's on the hanger. Things can be tweaked and styled with just a little imagination. Shoulder pads can be removed. Granny skirts can be hemmed. Bulky pieces can be belted.
2) Consider alterations. Things can be fixed to better suit you. Hemming the bottom of pants and skirts, replacing buttons, or mending a ripped seam are easy fixes. If you don't have the slightest clue about how to work a needle, you can ask a friend or a family member. More complicated jobs can be altered professionally by a tailor for a fair price.
3) Don't shop according to your size. Obviously this wouldn't work for things like jeans, shorts, etc. But if you're a certain letter size, don't limit yourself to just that section. You might find that oversized sweater that hangs off your shoulder and looks great with leggings and boots, or a too big for you dress that magically fits with the use of a waist belt. The sizes will greatly vary especially since it's a bunch of different manufacturers. Also keep in mind that you're dealing with different eras. Things made in the past couple of years fit differently than things made in the 70s, 80s, etc.
4) Try things on! Things always look different on than it does on the hanger. If something catches your eye, snatch it up and head to the fitting room! Most places launder their items before putting them out if that's a concern of yours. It won't kill you, I promise.
5) Examine your pieces thoroughly before bringing them to the register. Missing buttons, tears along seams are quick and easy fixes, but you don't want to come home with something that
will cost more to fix than what you paid or what it would be worth.
And don't forget to check out everything else!! Books, accessories, home decor, furniture, party decorations, craft projects.. The possibilities are endless!
1) It saves $$$. You're money will stretch far. Think about how much you pay for one item at a department store. Think about being able to buy 5-10 things for the cost of that one item.
2) It helps a good cause. Thrift stores are often owned by charity or non-profit organizations. Because the items are donated, the money from the sales help fund charities and community programs.
3) It's eco-friendly. You recycle cans, bottles, and re-use items for other purposes. Why not clothes too? You are giving life to an item that might otherwise have been thrown in the
garbage and keeping things out of the landfill.
4) There's a wide variety. When you shop at department and other retail stores, there's probably 50 other people who have that same exact item. Thrift stores offer one of a kind pieces that you can probably bet nobody else is wearing and you can't find anywhere else.
5) You get the thrill of the hunt. Finding an awesome item at a great price is always a good feeling!
6) Things are in better condition than you might think! Just because things are donated doesn't mean that they are all falling apart. Think about the stuff in your closet that hasn't been worn for a while. They are still in perfect condition, but maybe it's just not your style anymore or maybe you changed your mind about something you bought but it's too late to return so it's just hanging out in your closet. A lot of the store's inventory come from those situations. There are plenty of items with tags still attached!
7) You get to use your imagination. There aren't any mannequins or store ads telling you what to wear. This is wear you can expand your creativity and really make the style your own.
1) Try to go on a week day. The weekends can get very packed which can discourage you from really diving in and sorting through all the racks.
2) Ask a worker what days the store stocks new inventory. Then try to go as early as possible to have the best selection.
3) Find out if there are days that offer special discounts. A lot of stores offer an extra percentage off of certain tag colors or an extra percentage off the senior discount. Bring a grandparent!
4) Look out for coupons. I've seen coupons in my area's Pennysaver for up to 50% off a purchase total. Check your newspaper or any community ad/circular.
5) Wear the right the right clothes for shopping. You will be doing a lot of sifting. You don't want to get too hot while shopping.
6) Wear the right undergarments. Try to wear a strapless nude bra/underwear for trying things on. It's easier to envision a final outfit when you don't have a clashing bra strap peaking through or colorful underwear showing.
7) Bring cash. Usually stores accept debit/credit, but bring cash just in case.
8) Check reviews online. Find thrift stores that have good ratings. People will tell you what kinds of things can be found and if they got good deals on them.
9) Be willing to spend a little time looking. You don't want to miss out on a great deal because you're in a hurry!
10)Have fun! Just keep thinking that you will find something perfect! It's out there somewhere! It takes patience at times.
1) Be open minded. Think of what you could do with an item instead of just looking at what's on the hanger. Things can be tweaked and styled with just a little imagination. Shoulder pads can be removed. Granny skirts can be hemmed. Bulky pieces can be belted.
2) Consider alterations. Things can be fixed to better suit you. Hemming the bottom of pants and skirts, replacing buttons, or mending a ripped seam are easy fixes. If you don't have the slightest clue about how to work a needle, you can ask a friend or a family member. More complicated jobs can be altered professionally by a tailor for a fair price.
3) Don't shop according to your size. Obviously this wouldn't work for things like jeans, shorts, etc. But if you're a certain letter size, don't limit yourself to just that section. You might find that oversized sweater that hangs off your shoulder and looks great with leggings and boots, or a too big for you dress that magically fits with the use of a waist belt. The sizes will greatly vary especially since it's a bunch of different manufacturers. Also keep in mind that you're dealing with different eras. Things made in the past couple of years fit differently than things made in the 70s, 80s, etc.
4) Try things on! Things always look different on than it does on the hanger. If something catches your eye, snatch it up and head to the fitting room! Most places launder their items before putting them out if that's a concern of yours. It won't kill you, I promise.
5) Examine your pieces thoroughly before bringing them to the register. Missing buttons, tears along seams are quick and easy fixes, but you don't want to come home with something that
will cost more to fix than what you paid or what it would be worth.
And don't forget to check out everything else!! Books, accessories, home decor, furniture, party decorations, craft projects.. The possibilities are endless!
A Thrifting We Will Go
My Sundays usually consist of cleaning, catching up on dvr'd tv shows, and going through my newspaper for ads and coupons. Today I changed it up a bit and decided to visit my favorite place to shop: the thrift store! It wasn't very busy today which was great because it allowed me to go through every single rack without having to cross paths with anyone. Don't you hate when you've developed a rhythm for sorting through clothes but have to stop because somebody has claimed a spot right smack dab in the middle? You have to stop, go around, then come back to that place. It just messes with the efficiency of things. Luckily, I was able to avoid that today.
Here's some of what I was able to pick up today:
Olive Jeggings $2.99, White Dress $2.99 by H&M (brand new w/ tag still attached!), Sheer Navy Blouse by Ann Taylor Loft $3.99, White Top by Old Navy $1.49, Clutch by Kenneth Cole Reaction $3.99
Here's some of what I was able to pick up today:
November 4, 2011
People Watching
I had a bit of waiting to do so I decided to sit and watch people go by. I was sitting on a bench waiting for my boyfriend to pick me up because my car has been in the shop for a few weeks :( I took a few pictures to help pass the time.
The shoes I wore today are one of my favorites. I got them several years ago on clearance for only $5. I got them thinking "They won't last very long but they're only $5 so why the hell not?" Surprisingly they've held up quite well even with constant use, and they are SO comfy! I love when that happens! I also wore one of my new favorites: a thrifted oversized cotton/acrylic blend sweater that I purchased for $2. Good stuff.
Thrifted Oversized Gray Sweater ($2), Stretch Skinny Jeans ($10.80) from Forever 21, Wedges ($5) from Payless ShoeSource, Bag ($20?) from Forever 21
The shoes I wore today are one of my favorites. I got them several years ago on clearance for only $5. I got them thinking "They won't last very long but they're only $5 so why the hell not?" Surprisingly they've held up quite well even with constant use, and they are SO comfy! I love when that happens! I also wore one of my new favorites: a thrifted oversized cotton/acrylic blend sweater that I purchased for $2. Good stuff.
November 1, 2011
Thrift Store Finds
Today I took a trip to my favorite local thrift store. I can spend HOURS just sifting through all of the racks, shelves, and bins. There are always good finds and the prices are just amazing. I came home with a few skirts and tops, none of them costing more than $3. In fact, I think just one of the items cost me a whopping $2.99, and it was for a really pretty Banana Republic wool skirt. I also came home with a stack of books in hopes that it will get me to start reading more. Hopefully it'll wean me off of the hours of reality tv I am guilty of being addicted to. Good luck to me.
October 25, 2011
Birthday Fun
Today is my birthday, and I feel inspired to blog! A fresh start, maybe? I've said that before, but this time I'm really determined! This past weekend I threw a little get together to celebrate my day in advance. I'd like to share some of the pictures taken :) A lot of DIY and thrift store decorations! I wanted the cocktail/lounge/dinner party feel more than an actual birthday party. The pictures make it seem very dark, but it wasn't. I might have overdone the photo effects, but I thought it made the white decorations stand out more. The party was a success! The food turned out great, we had a few cocktails, and I played some dance music. It was a good time.
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