Broke but Stylish: 10 Thrifting Tips Every College Student Should Know
By Amanda Chen
Let’s be real–college life isn’t exactly cheap. Between tuition, housing, partying, coffee runs, and spontaneous Target trips, saving money isn’t exactly the easiest feat. This means saving money wherever you can is a must–that’s where thrifting comes in!
By saving cash and helping the planet, you are benefiting both your wallet and the earth! Whether you are a beginner thrifter, or a seasoned deal-hunter, here are some tips to help you score big without breaking your budget.
- Learn To Spot Quality
Before you fall in love with that $5 jacket, make sure it’s in good shape. If the clothing item you want is pilled or worn-looking, pass it on. Learn which brands are indicative of good quality. Don’t be afraid to google a brand you don’t know!
- Hit the Discount Days
Lots of thrift stores have student discounts, color tag sales, or “half-off” days. Ask the staff or check their socials to find out when those happen–you’ll be shocked how cheap things can get!
- Set a Spending Limit
It’s so easy to get sucked into the “It’s cheap, so why not?” mindset. But just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean you need it. Setting up a spending limit can help you minimize clutter = more space and money for things you truly love!
- Always Try Stuff On
Thrifted clothes come from all different brands, eras, and sizes, so the fit can be unpredictable. Try on things if you can, or bring a tape measure for quick checks.
- Look Through Absolutely Everything
Oversized items can have a cool slouchy fit and often items are stuck in the wrong size section anyway. It isn’t uncommon for women to find their best finds in the men’s section. Lots of petite women find clothes in the kids section, too!
- Go With a Friend
Specifically, go with a friend that is a different size than you. If your friend pulls something out that is too small/too big on them, then that item could fit you perfectly! It’s great to have an extra set of eyes and company to keep the experience fun.
- Go Often (Whatever That Means To You)
As busy college students, going to the thrift store hoping to score every day may not be the most feasible. But going every other week or so consistently will increase your chances of finding great stuff. PSA: some places release new things on a certain day of the week, find out what that day is and go then!
- Wash Everything
Don’t buy something if you aren’t confident you will be able to either clean it. Keep an eye out for stains in hidden areas–armpit rings inside a shirt, dribbles near the waistline, turn pockets inside out, and check the inner seams for staining on pants/fitness wear/pjs. Watch out for tiny holes in these areas as well.
- Shop Off Season
Thrift stores usually sort items by type. While others are rummaging through the tank tops during July, you might find a cool, untouched leather jacket.
- Ask Yourself: “Would I Buy It If It Was Full Price?”
If no, then it’s not a bargain. Make sure you are buying items because you truly love them, not just because they are cheap.
Conclusion: Thrifting Your Way Through College
At the end of the day, thrifting isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creativity, patience, and the thrill of finding something totally you for a fraction of the price. As a college student, every dollar counts, and learning how to stretch your budget while expressing your personal style is a skill that will serve you long after graduation.
So grab a friend, set your budget, and start digging through those racks—you never know what hidden gems you’ll find. Remember, college isn’t cheap, but thrifting definitely is!