In 2020, fast fashion is out, and thrifted finds are in.

Needless to say, Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw, a fashion icon and thrifting connoisseur, would be happy about this. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a basic staple, thrift shops can make your life easier by offering discounted and unique items, while helping reduce the amount of fashion waste in today’s society. Here are 10 tips for thrifting that are Carrie Bradshaw approved* (*well, we’d like to imagine.)

1. Before you go: Make an Inspiration Board

Make use of VSCO reposts, Pinterest inspo, old magazines, and Instagram content. Use these found images to put together a physical or digital collage to inspire the looks you’re shopping for.

Bonus tip: set a picture of the collage as your phone background to reference while shopping.

2. Clean Out your Closet & Bring your Old Clothes

You know what they say, one fashion lover's trash is another one's treasure! If you want to thrift like Carrie Bradshaw, you'll need to set out to get the most out of your shopping experience. Do a closet clean out beforehand and bring your old items to sell for store credit so you can put the difference towards your thrifting spree. Cha-ching!

3. Consider Thrifting Online

Think that thrifting is limited to physical stores? Think again! You can thrift remotely using your phone or laptop at stores such as:

Or, if you’re looking for more of a designer-vintage thrifting experience, try:

4. Thrift Somewhere other than a Thrift Store

Yes, you read that right. Try thrifting your family members' closets- you know, Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, aunt, cousin, great-uncle- you get the picture (just don't forget to get their permission first.) Tip: Ask friends or family if they need help cleaning out their closet, and some of their rejected pieces may catch your eye. They get a clean-out, you get new clothes, it's a win-win!

5. Look at labels …

The great thing about thrifting is that you can find designer labels for a bargain, or better yet, a vintage designer piece to add to your collection. Check labels for your favorite designers, or for ones you've always wanted to own.

6. ...but think outside the box.

Don't be afraid to buy something from a brand you've never heard of, or to try on a new style, pattern, or texture you've never considered. The beauty of thrifting is that you can find unique items to create individual styles that no one else will be able to replicate. After all, style icons don't come from comfort zones ;)

7. Play with Sizing.

Whoever says that clothes have to be in your size to make you look fabulous is seriously missing out. A sized-up men's t-shirt can become a t-shirt dress when cinched with a belt, and a children’s graphic tee can become an eclectic crop top that pairs perfectly with high waisted jeans.

8. Mix & Match!

Have a piece at home that you love, but never know how to style? Wear it to the store or try to mix and match it with your thrifted finds. Alternatively, mix and match pieces in the store to create a completely new look. Jean jacket from outerwear rack meets a simple tee from the bargain bin? A match made in heaven.

thrifting-accessories-clothes-and-water — 9. Don't Overlook the Accessories Section…

It's easy to breeze past the accessories section and skip straight to the clothing racks, but between sunglasses, jewelry, bags, belts, and more, the accessories section is where a look becomes complete. Definitely check out this section-this is often where the best bargains can be found!

10. & Don’t Skip the Shoe Section Either!

Carrie Bradshaw doesn't underestimate the power of a thrifted shoe, and neither should you! Even though the shoe section can be sparse at times, there's often gems to be found. So once you're tired of trying on clothes and walking around the store, have a seat and try on some new heels, or sneakers, or better yet, try both.