Mix it, match it, grab it, THRIFT IT!

Have you ever walked into class or a party and found that there was somebody else wearing the same thing that you had on?

Of course you say to yourself "Yeah, but I look better in it."

Unfortunately this is an all too common trend, especially on this campus. Thankfully this has not happened to me, but I have a solution for all of you who have experienced the former issue.

Mix it, Match it, Grab it, THRIFT IT! By that I mean abandon the generic stores that produce the demand. Get in touch with your artsy side and explore the art of thrifting.

Thrift stores and consignment shops have pieces that are one of a kind which should appeal to all of you "I like to stand out, not blend in" kind of people. But more importantly, thrift stores should appeal to all students because of their very low prices. As college students, we are on a budget, and sometimes clothes and accessories don't quite fit into that budget. While I always happen to squeeze a trip to the mall here and there, I often find myself having to think long and hard about a decision to do so.

The key to thrift shopping is to keep an open mind. Thrifting is not for everyone especially if you cannot come to terms with the fact that a random person once owned the items that are available at thrift stores. If you have no patience, thrifting is also not for you. Thrifting is an experience that takes time and patience. In order to snag the great finds, you must be willing to look through a heap load of racks on racks on racks.

But the great thing about thrifting is that you do not need racks on racks on racks to shop there. Contrary to popular demand, you may enter a thrift store with as little as $10 and walk out with some great finds.

I would also recommend exploring the store from top to bottom. Meaning, females should not only look in the women's section and males should not only look in the men's section. Things get thrown everywhere and you never know what you can find if you simply explore.

Another suggestion for all you prospective "thrifters" is to not think too long and hard about what you can potentially wear with the items you find at thrift stores. If you sit there and say to yourself "Oh well I have nothing to match with this." Or "I don't think I can pull this off," then you will miss out on some very unique pieces.

Some thrift stores in the vicinity include:

Goodwill - 1 County Road 156

Plato's Closet - 818 Central Ave. #2

Treasure Chest - 295 Hamilton Street

Great Finds Thrift Shop - 260 Washington Ave.