Skip to Content, Navigation, or Footer.
We inform. You decide.
Friday, March 29, 2024
thrift store
thrift store

With summer break approaching, it is important to save money for vacations, internships, study abroad and so on. However, with the changing weather comes the need for a changing wardrobe. That is why shopping second hand is so great for college students: Besides being environmentally friendly, it saves money. Through extensive research (and probably too much money and time), I have amassed a list of some secondhand clothing stores to check out, and others to steer clear of.

Goodwill Thrift Store

If you want a fast thrifting experience, do not go to a Goodwill. Finding gems through vast amounts of racks at any Goodwill takes time, patience and energy because you have to sift through an endless array of unorganized clothing.

It is important to note before going to Goodwill that finding a trendy piece is unlikely, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make one yourself. Shirts can be cropped, dresses can be hemmed and jeans can be distressed. If you have the dedication to go to a Goodwill, it is well worth it.

Plato’s Closet

Plato’s Closet is the fool-proof solution when you need to add something to your wardrobe. Whether you are shopping for a beach-themed frat party, a dress for a night out or a Gator shirt for gameday, Plato’s probably has it.

Out of all the secondhand clothing stores I ventured to during my research, the men’s section at Plato’s is the most diverse. Normally, secondhand stores have a lackluster men’s section that is either abysmal or filled with Hawaiian button-downs and corny graphic T-shirts. However, Plato’s has a wide variety of men’s styles and sizes.

There are some drawbacks to Plato’s. Based on the way they buy clothing, accepting items they believe are the most current and have little-to-no wear, there is a lack of diversity in the brands they have. And even though they have this buying method, many of the pieces I have taken interest in are incredibly damaged. All in all, if you are a thrifting beginner, Plato’s is your best bet, but it’s not perfect.

Sandy’s Savvy Chic Resale Boutique

With a mirage of gaudy denim at the front of the store, your first impression of Sandy’s Savvy Chic Resale Boutique might be off-putting.

Although Sandy’s closely resembles Plato’s in terms of available styles, sizes and clothing layout, you can find some hidden gems that would’ve been rejected by Plato’s for being too old. If you did not have success in Plato’s, Sandy’s would be the next place to check out.

Flashbacks Recycled Fashions

Enjoy what you're reading? Get content from The Alligator delivered to your inbox

If you are looking for the classic thrifting experience, Flashbacks Recycled Fashions is the place to go.

The smell of old fabric, the makeshift dressing rooms, the shine of garish vintage jewelry and the feeling of materials like velvet and satin all add to the experience.

Not only does Flashbacks offer a great selection of vintage clothing, I have found pieces that were virtually unworn, with some still garnering their original tags from brands like American Apparel and Levi’s.

Thrifting in this kind of environment may be intimidating, but going to Flashbacks is worth the effort.

Support your local paper
Donate Today
The Independent Florida Alligator has been independent of the university since 1971, your donation today could help #SaveStudentNewsrooms. Please consider giving today.

Powered by SNworks Solutions by The State News
All Content © 2024 The Independent Florida Alligator and Campus Communications, Inc.