By Trilby Goouch
Blogs Editor

Thrifting-the process of scouring thrift stores for hidden gems. Sound tedious? It doesn’t have to be. Thrifting is a great resource for those of who like the look of that lumberjack button down but can’t fathom spending $50 or don’t want to look like every other guy on campus; thrift stores boast vintage items that you can’t find in your local mall or fashion magazine. I collaborated with Journal Sports Editor Peter Morrow, a seasoned thrifter, who has some valuable tips on how to navigate your way around a thrift store and what to look out for.

#1. Never pick up undergarments (e.g. underwear, boxers, etc.) It’s just not worth it.

#2. Once you’ve made your kick-ass purchase, run it through the laundry. Better safe than sorry.

#3. Go for knits, wool sweaters and lumberjack shirts – they look great with jeans for the fall and winter. Go for basics such as a plaid button down or v-neck wool sweater, and take time to scour out some sweet bands tees and vintage graphics.

#4. Be conscious when searching for hidden gems (oftentimes wicked brand-name clothes are out there for 1/10th the price, and in great shape — it just takes work ethic and digging). My friend scored a Robert Graham dress shirt for $10, a designer brand that normally goes for $280 plus. Designate 30 minutes of thrifting time and you’ll be sure to come across something; get lazy and you’ll come out empty handed.

#5. Vintage jackets, shoes & hats are key at these places. Try rocking a $20 leather jacket and your life will change. Like the look of Converse but don’t want to be “that guy” who walks around in shoes that look a little too clean? Thrift stores do the work for you.

#6. Scout out thrift stores for events such as Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas; make a sweet DIY costume or deck yourself out in lots of green pieces that you’ll probably never wear again…and that’s okay, because you spent less than $10 to show some serious spirit. Sick Christmas themed sweaters work in the holiday season and are perfect for ugly sweater parties.

Once you get past the fact that you might be wearing an unknown man’s old attire, thrift shopping is glorious. Why shell out money on faux-vintage brands when you can get the real deal for so much less? Best of all, it’s never a bad investment. If you’re having second thoughts about that polo you just bought, who cares. It was 5 bucks.

Where to go in Kingston:

• Phase Two at 353 Princess Street
• The Salvation Army at 277 Bath Rd
• Value Village at 1300 Bath Rd, Unit A1C