Thrift without stress

By: Esra Erdogan/Columnist

esra.erdogan@fiusm.com

I feel a little protective of my thrifting haunts. It gives me a little bit of anxiety to know that someone else may be uncovering a vintage Escada jacket that could be hanging in my closet.
But since this is one of my last columns, I figured it’s about time to share my wisdom. Good thrifting in Miami does exist.
When I mean thrifting, I mean thrifting. Not a fancy vintage store that is well curated with amazing vintage pieces with high prices to match. I’m talking about the places that smell a little old, make you crave hand sanitizer, and are probably filled with crap 80% of the time.
Thrifting is difficult, but once you get the hang of it and pick the spots that you like the best, you can uncover some really original things.

TIPS

1) Bring cash. If you haven’t been to a store before, take cash. Some of these stores are older and haven’t updated their systems in forever. Cash is quick and easy, and usually guarantees the stores’ prices are lower.
2) Wear something form fitting. Some thrift stores don’t have dressing rooms so you want to be able to throw on a button down or skirt over your clothes and still get a good idea of what it would look like without the extra insulation.
It also helps to know your measurements in vintage clothing so you have an idea of what will fit you today versus what size you would be wearing if you lived in the 1970s. Sizes have changed a lot over the years. Do some research on Google about vintage clothing sizes before you leave your home.
3) Go hands free. Use a cross body purse or use your pockets. You will probably have to use your arms to go through the racks and after a while a big, heavy purse or backpack can become a huge burden.
4) Have patience. Things aren’t going to jump out at you. Oftentimes the best stuff is buried in a long forgotten corner. Look in unexpected places. Sometimes I look through the boy’s section, which usually gets me a few looks, but I’ve found some nice fitting oxfords and a blazer there.
5) Do research. See something you like but don’t recognize the label? Do a quick Google search on your phone. You may have hit the jackpot with a vintage piece of a now defunct French fashion label from the 80s. You never know.
6) Be commited. These places do not have return policies, so make sure you love something before you take it home.
7) Sanitize. It goes without saying that you should wash everything thoroughly before wearing, even before you introduce thrifted stuff to your closet.

WHERE TO GO

Goodwill
6842 Bird Rd
Miami, FL 33155

Although there are many locations in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, not all Goodwills are created equal. The location on Bird Rd. is probably the best maintained store which is why it’s my number one go to spot. They have a huge selection of garments that are pretty organized.
The store is clean and new inventory is put in frequently. My suggestion is to go during the weekdays. It’s more likely that the store will be well stocked towards the end of the week because it can get crowded over the weekend.
This particular Goodwill has a lot of interesting jewelry and accessories to pick through, as well as a huge selection of dresses. One tip for the girls: look through the juniors and women’s section because the Forever 21 club wear gets confused with the nicer things. I’ve purchased a tweed Moschino jacket here for $15.

Red White and Blue Thrift
901 E 10th Ave
Flamingo Plaza
Ste 12
Hialeah, FL 33010

This place is a goldmine for vintage lovers. If you’re looking for really old stuff, this is the place to go. Come here with the entire afternoon off because the place is huge and there is a lot to sort through.
The pricing is a little arbitrary here, so come with a lot of cash on you because the it is cash only. They also don’t have dressing rooms so prepare accordingly. This place has an awesome selection of accessories, so definitely look through the handbags, shoes and belts.

Salvation Army
1801 W Broward Blvd
Ft Lauderdale

This is my number one spot. They don’t have the biggest selection, but the area is old enough to find some really interesting pieces. I found an Hermes belt here for $3. I felt like I had robbed someone.
Costume jewelry and handbags are also plentiful, so definitely check that out. My absolute favorite part of this store is their book selection, though. They have coffee table books galore for mere dollars. Sometimes thrifting isn’t always about fashion.
With enough practice and frequency, I can promise you that you will find some unbelievable things.