In an age where fast fashion dominates and trends come and go in the blink of an eye, a different kind of shopping is making a comeback: thrifting. It’s more than just a way to save money, for many, thrifting is a creative outlet, a sustainable choice, and a thrilling hunt for unique treasures. 

Most people go thrifting or are able to craft their own unique personal style. Elizabeth Daggers goes for a “simple clean girl” aesthetic, while Micah Byrd is all about “streetwear.” On the other hand, Roman Vasquez has a clear vision for a “grunge style.” 

This shows that thrifting isn’t just about finding clothes but about curating an identity. Ryan Diaz highlighted a more seasonal approach, stating he’s currently looking for “more autumn colors because fall is coming.”

When it comes to the best places to find these gems, our students had a few recommendations. Elizabeth Daggers swears by Circa Vintage because they “cater to a large group of people” with a variety of styles. Ryan Diaz, however, prefers the more unconventional Goodwill Bins, noting that it’s not a “not an average thrift store and has cheap finds.” Micah Byrd’s go-to is Uptown Cheapskate. These varied suggestions highlight that the best thrift store often depends on what you’re looking for, whether it’s vintage curation or a bargain hunt.

The thrill of the find is a huge part of the thrifting experience, and our interviewees have some great stories. Elizabeth Dagger’s best finds include a “super cute baby top” and a “couch bag that was pretty cheap.” Ryan Diaz is proud of his “brown printed camouflage thick jacket that’s really nice.” These stories of success show that thrifting can unearth some truly special items that can’t be found anywhere else.

Of course, not every thrifting adventure is a success. Regrets are a part of the process, too. Ryan Diaz had second thoughts about some camouflage boots, admitting he “was worried about the cleanness and who wore them before.” Micah Byrd had a classic thrifter’s regret, a hoodie she “thought was a good deal but I paid too much for it.” Roman Vasquez was disappointed by a CD that had the wrong artist’s music on it. These experiences remind us that thrifting is a hit-or-miss game, but the low cost makes the risk worthwhile.

Speaking of cost, budgets are a key factor in the thrifting world. Ryan Diaz tries to stay under $100. Roman Vasquez’s budget is between $50-60, and Micah Byrd is the most budget-conscious, sticking to just $20. 

Beyond the financial benefits, Ryan Diaz also pointed out a significant ethical advantage, stating, “I like thrifting more because it’s better for the environment and it’s better for environmental practice.” This sentiment shows that for many students thrifting isn’t just a fun hobby; it’s a conscious choice for a more sustainable future.

From curating a specific aesthetic to simply looking for a great deal, our student body has a wide range of reasons for embracing the world of secondhand shopping. It’s clear that thrifting is more than a trend; it’s a movement driven by creativity, sustainability, and the thrill of the hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just starting out, there’s a world of unique and affordable finds waiting for you.