Thrifting has become a favorite American pastime. It’s the thrill of the hunt for many, conscious consuming for some and the joy of a bargain for most. Whatever your “why”, vintage shopping ensures one-of-a-kind treasures that add flair and visual interest to any outfit, plus make you feel like an original. The range of products, quality and choices is vast, so making smart, informed decisions is the best strategy. Here’s a short list of the top items to scout:

1. Denim
   Some of the best heritage denim brands can be found at second hand stores. Shop Levi Strauss, Lee and Wrangler jeans, but also look for denim jackets, shackets, skirts and shorts. Turn your denim finds into a creative DIY project by embellishing with patches, embroidery, jewels or fun fabric liners. Or, reimagine denim separates by cutting jeans to shorts or a jackets to vests.

2. Luxury materials
   Shop luxury materials like leather, suede and fur, but with peace of mind because it’s recycling. Look for classic leather moto and bomber jackets in good condition, avoiding leathers that are torn, dried out or cracked. Shop suede baseball jackets, sherpa-lined utility shackets and fringed western-style jackets, and spot clean with a suede brush or cleaner to remove minor dirt spots. And don’t forget about exotics like alligator clutches and croc peep toe slingbacks. Vintage fur is abundant on the second hand market, so cherry-pick fur stoles, vests, jackets and coats in fox, leopard, snow leopard, mink and Mongolian wool. Avoid fur that’s too dry, as it will disintegrate in no time.

3. Hats
   Hats were a big part of 40s and 50s fashion, and remain some of today’s most well preserved vintage finds. Shop for wool fedoras, newsboy caps and cloches, as well as straw Panama hats and fur trapper caps. If you’re lucky, there are even top-quality, decorative fascinators to be found. Always ask if the original box packaging is available for storage.

4. Jewelry
   There’s an abundance of costume jewelry on the vintage market, though not all of it is worth the investment. Be sure to inspect embedments for cracks, dead rhinestones or loose or missing settings. Also test earring clips for a tight fit, plus bracelet and necklace clasps for secure closures. For bakelite and acrylic pieces, check for scratches and cloudiness to cherry-pick the most top-quality pieces.

5. Formalwear
   From gowns to tuxes, special occasion clothing is a treasure trove at vintage shops. Look for sumptuous fabrics like velvet, taffeta, tulle and satin, and styles like tea-length hemlines, corseted bodices, bell sleeves and waistcoat tails. Always try before you buy, keeping an open mind when it comes to alterations. Also check for flaws like holes, tears, stains, missing buttons, stuck zippers, yellowing and general wear and tear, and consider experts like dry cleaners, tailors and restoration services to bring garments back to life. And if you’re a bride, don’t rule out a vintage wedding dress. A one-of-a-kind gown from yesteryear might just be your dream dress!

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