Hey there!
Non-conformists, known in 19th-century France as bohemians, were, in many cases, “starving artists.”
So, not only were early bohemians devoted to the arts and unorthodox thinking, lifestyle and dress, they were frugal.
If thrift shops had existed centuries ago, the bohemians would’ve been there! 😀
Today’s bohemians know the value of thrifting.
- Low prices
- further price reduction on “unwanteds”
- vintage
- unique finds
- raw material
- the thrill of the hunt!
First off, not all second-hand shops are created equal: If the sign says consignment or resale, it’s not a thrift shop!
If the store is fashionably laid out, looks chic and trendy, expect fancy prices to go along with the attractive shop.
If you see the word “upscale,” run! Lol!…unless, you are looking for a wedding dress or something for another very special occasion.
These fancy upscale resales are not for those of us looking to find cheap stuff to take apart to make something else!
All “thrift stores” have so-called “low” prices, but, only a few are literally low priced.
Search out charity thrift shops run by churches, particularly.
Bargain stores, such as Goodwill—while priced lower than new-merchandise stores, are, in my opinion, getting out of hand.
Even some charity
shops that raise money for animal shelters, etc., are too expensive.
I have, on occasion, bought an item from these when I really love something and can’t resist; but, for the most part, I go where the true bargains are.
Sometimes, it depends on the town or area, too. Those appealing to yuppies tend to be higher.
Most reduce their prices every week on things that don’t sell. You might think these items are truly undesirable, but, you’d be surprised. If you’re small, taking into account that most American women are not, you can find something really cheap that fits!
But, another reason for checking out the
“unsold-as-of-yets,” you can find raw materials. Think extra large sizes for that 🙂 , which translates to more raw material!
Spotting a great print in an extra large blouse, or useful denim in the form of huge jeans is the best!
Also, take into consideration clothing of natural fibers for the purpose of dyeing!
A not-so-well-known tidbit re: thrifting is the Goodwill Outlets, where you buy according to weight.
Here, rummage through bins of leftovers from their retail stores. Find clothing made in India, or made by Indian women here at home; lace, trims, tulle.
shower curtains, rugs, bed sheets, pillow cases—anything that looks appealing and has potential for re-purposing into clothing. Just remember your personal color palette.
My tastes run different from the ordinary person. They seem to leave all the cool stuff for me! 😀
Another place to look for free stuff is in your own closet and dresser drawers!!
Are you tired of something but still kinda like it?
Re-make it!
Have two or three full skirts of different lengths whose colors blend or match? Either sew them together, or simply wear them layered!
Other sources would be:
- estate sales
- rummage sales
- flea markets
- your friend’s or mom’s or sister’s closet! When you know she is cleaning out her closet, pose as a trashcan!! Lol. Volunteer to take things off her hands. So, maybe they are not exactly your style…RE-MAKE ’em!
ALWAYS look for stuff to make stuff out of!
We creative bohemians have a lot of choices in being ingenious! …and being
C’mon, admit it…
it’s flat FUN to
thrift and re-make!
Plus, you get something cool to wear!!
Click an image.
Click an image.
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