Hey earth muffins! Thrifting can be a treasure hunt, especially when it comes to finding cozy and stylish sweaters to keep you warm and fashionable during the colder months. This blog post shares all the best tips to thrift a cozy sweater that will not only keep you snug but also help you reduce your fashion footprint.
1. Know your sizes but shop the whole store!
Before you embark on your thrifting adventure, it’s essential to know your measurements. Sweater sizes can vary widely between brands and eras, so having your measurements on hand will help you quickly assess whether a sweater will fit. Another great thrift tip is to shop all departments of the store. You might find some great oversized sweaters in the men’s section or a cropped sweater in kids; plus, you never know when items are placed in the wrong place.
2. Shop often and know when the store puts out new merch
Just like with any secondhand shopping, it is important to go often. Especially in larger areas where there is a lot of turnover of clothing, it can be helpful to shop every week. You definitely won’t miss a cozy sweater if you do! In addition, learn when your store puts out new items so that you can go when pieces haven’t been picked over yet.
3. Inspect carefully before you purchase
Examine potential purchases carefully so that you don’t buy any damaged sweaters. Easy ways to avoid damaged secondhand pieces include looking for signs of wear, such as pilling, holes, or loose threads. Be especially vigilant around the collar, cuffs, and underarms, as these areas are more prone to wear and tear. Don’t be scared of minor imperfections though – you can just sew it up when you get home!
4. Be open minded when it comes to style (and don’t be afraid of a little DIY)
Thrift stores offer a wide range of styles, from vintage to contemporary. Don’t limit yourself to just one style – explore different cuts, necklines, and patterns. You might stumble upon a unique piece that you wouldn’t find in a conventional store. Don’t shy away from sweaters that are almost perfect but not quite; a little creativity can go a long way. You can upcycle a thrifted sweater with embellishments, dye it in your favorite color, or even turn it into a cardigan if the style doesn’t suit you.
5. Don’t forget to shop out of season too!
Visit thrift stores in the off-season to find the best deals. Sweaters are often more affordable during the warmer months when they are less in demand. You’ll have a broader selection to choose from and can plan ahead for the upcoming chilly season. However, some stores don’t put sweaters out during the warmer months… But online thrift shops will always have them around year round!
Thrifting for sweaters can be an exciting and sustainable way to build a cozy winter wardrobe! Armed with the knowledge of your measurements, a discerning eye for quality, and an openness to different styles and creative possibilities, you can unearth beautiful and comfortable sweaters while reducing fashion waste. How do you thrift a cozy sweater this time of year??
Love,
Jenna ♥
These are wonderful suggestions! It can be so exciting to find a cute new sweater at the thrift store!