Some people think of thrift shops as carrying grungy old clothes that no one wants because they're no longer wearable.
Although that can be the case with certain thrift shops - I've been in some that pile everything into bins you don't even want to look through because you know the chances of finding anything you'd even consider wearing are next to none - there are millions of beautifully-dressed women all over America that are wearing vintage clothing.
How do you become one of the latter? Here are five tips for vintage clothing success.
1.
If you're one of those women who think wearing something that belonged to someone else is unthinkable - get over it.
Really.
I've met many women who dress like a million bucks; so stylish and unique I can't resist commenting.
They then tell me they shop in thrift stores, and share their favorites.
I make a bee-line in that direction at my first opportunity.
2.
Go to shops in the best areas of town.
When people donate their unwanted clothing, or put it up for consignment, they generally do so in a nearby shop.
People in the more affluent areas usually have better quality clothes in the first place and if something doesn't look good on them or doesn't fit properly, they tend to get rid of it immediately rather than keeping it around 'just in case.
' They also tend to take good care of their clothing, so the articles have less wear, no stains, and so on.
In those shops, it's not unusual to find vintage clothing and shoes that have obviously never been worn.
3.
Unless you're ready to have something altered, or are handy that way yourself, don't get something that isn't quite right.
You'll end up with a closet full of great clothes that you can't wear - while you still wander around in jeans and t-shirts.
4.
Unless you find something you really want at least half the time you shop at particular vintage clothing store, don't bother going there anymore.
Your time is better spent finding another shop that inevitably has something you like.
5.
Don't forget to shop online.
There are vintage clothing dealers on the Internet that have great products.
If you find one that offers specific measurements, lots of good photos and so on, you can get something that's just right for you without ever having to leave home.
With the economy being in bad shape and money a little tight, clothing is likely to be one of the first things cut from your budget.
But that doesn't mean you can't look great.
With vintage fashion, you can find great outfits at a fraction of the price.