I’ve been thrifting for more than a decade. My mom was thrifter. It’s in my blood. Give me a picture and I can recreate it in sizes that fit. That’s how I create the stylish combos I’m known for.
Here’s the thing: Thrifting as a plus-size woman can feel intimidating. The selection is smaller, and it’s hard to find our sizes. So no, you’re not alone if you feel like thrifting is tough.
That said, I believe anyone can learn. It’s a matter of finding the look you want and using thrifting to form your personal style.
If you want to become an expert and save money at the same time, check out these 10 tips to becoming the ultimate plus-size thrifter.
1. Focus on Material and Cut
The most important thing to know in plus-size thrifting is that material is more important than size. It’s easy to walk away from an item because of the number on the tag. But in reality, if it’s a flowy or stretchy material, it might be an option for you. Don’t let size intimidate you; but at the same time, don’t stress if you try on a straight-sized, stretchy option and it doesn’t fit.
My most exciting purchase from a thrift store was an Armani LBD (little black dress). New, an Armani Exchange LBD could retail from $100 to $160, but buying it thrift, I got it for 16 bucks.
This is what I want you to think about … this dress wasn’t even plus size, but because it was super stretchy, it fit. When I grabbed it off the rack, I could feel how stretchy the fabric was and stretched it out to see if it would accomodate my curves. After trying it on, it immediately became my go-to party outfit. I still have that dress 10 years later.
2. Cut, Sew, Rip, Knot and Cuff
If you learn to sew, it’ll be easier to manipulate thrift clothes to work for you. My mom recently bought me a sewing machine for the sole purpose of manipulating thrifted clothes. I still struggle with using the machine, so she helps me out. You can also buy something super cheap and then take it to a reasonably priced seamstress. By sewing, you can add or take away material to make it fit.
For the items that don’t need sewing, I will cut hemlines or sleeves, cuff pants or shorts to fit my shorter frame, add patches or vintage buttons, take in a waistband with hand stitching or tie a knot for a cropped top look. Sometimes I even cut the lining out of blazers and jackets so they can fit my larger arms. My point is the sky is the limit. You can create the look you want by personalizing it to your size and style.
3. Buttons and Zippers — Who Needs Them?
Don’t let zippers and buttons throw you off. Being a plus-size woman with a larger bust makes it super challenging to find button-up or zippered jackets that close without those annoying, gaping holes. Honestly, about 75 percent of my thrifted jackets, shirts and blazers don’t actually fit properly, so I wear them open. The key is to wear a nice shirt underneath (which can even be a tank top or T-shirt) and throw on those items that may not be able to close all the way. Do this, and BAM, you have an amazing accent piece and no one will ever know.
4. Shop in the Men’s Department
I’ll admit I’m a bit of a tomboy. I would prefer to wear baggy sweatpants over a dress and heels any day. But sweatpants aren’t realistic when you work in a school or business setting. This is where the men’s department comes in handy.
The men’s department has more structured pieces, and you can usually find bigger sizes. I have found great oversized blazers that I pair with tighter clothing, bomber jackets to wear with slacks and button-up shirts that can be worn as a dress or off-the-shoulder shirt. Some can even be used around your shoulders for a more preppy look, or around the waist for a more ‘90s look (my favorite).
5. Know Your Style and Thrift Stores
When it comes to thrifting, knowledge is power. Ask when sale days are and when shipments come in. Sign up to be on your store’s email list to get random discounts and reward perks. Go often and try areas where the majority of people have a similar style. I love oversized ‘90s clothing, so going to an area where most people wear business suits or luxury brands wouldn’t work for me. If you prefer higher end clothing, try consignment shops in more expensive areas.
6. Dress Comfortably
My go-to thrifting outfit involves leggings, slip on shoes and a tighter T-shirt or tank top. That’s because I’m all about comfort. Some thrift stores only allow very few items into the dressing room, and those lines can be extremely long. Wearing a tight and more comfortable outfit allows you to try things on right there in the aisle. Don’t be shy! Everyone is doing it. This will save you time.
7. Shapewear
Though I dress in comfortable clothing, I make sure to wear my good bra and girdle (yes, I wear shapewear) when I thrift. I would prefer to wear the saggy sports bra I go to bed in, but wearing the proper undergarments will help you better visualize a full outfit. This is especially true if you’re shopping for anything form-fitting, like a dress.
8. Snack, Water, Patience
Prepare for a longer shopping trip. It’s not like when you go to the mall and you can just grab water and a snack. Thrift stores can be out of the way, and can take hours to comb through. So bring a little snack and a drink to tide you over.
In addition, be patient. Most thrift stores are organized by size, color, product type or the combination of all three. This can help when browsing, but only a little. The clothes are tightly packed on the racks, so going through each item, feeling the material, looking at the print and taking your time will ensure that you find that hidden gem.
9. Try EVERYTHING on!
When it comes to things that can be a tough fit, you’ve got to wait in those long lines I just tried to help you avoid. For example, I have to try on pants in the fitting room. For the most part, I can look at an item and know whether it will fit me, but pants are (and continue to be) a struggle for me. During my last trip, I found 12 different pairs of vintage “Mom Jeans” that were definitely my aesthetic, but the sizing for vintage and current clothes, or even from brand to brand, isn’t consistent. After trying on all 12 pairs of jeans, I left with 0. Yes, 0. Which brings me to my last tip.
10. Accept Defeat
There are times when you will leave a thrift store with three giant bags full of clothing, and other times you will be lucky if you find one item. It happens. Stay open minded, and please don’t stress. Although I tried on 12 pairs of jeans and not one pair fit, there will always be a next time. On my next shopping trip, I may find the jeans I have been desperately searching for. Never give up.
About the Author: Amy is a middle school counselor and former teacher based in New York City. Thrifting and education are her passions. She can be found on IG @Thrifty.tiana. She’ll be back every month with more thrifting tips.
