If you want to start looking for a bargain or some beautiful vintage pieces for your home or wardrobe, then this article is the one for you.

I am not an expert in thrifting, but I must give myself some credit, because thrift store clothing fills up half my closet as well as room décor. I also currently work at a thrift store which also gives me some experience, as well as winning the “best dressed” superlative by pretty much wearing only thrifted clothing my entire high school career. Anyways, thrifting is a magical experience that I feel like everyone should try at least once in their lives. So here are my most helpful tips to enhance your shopping adventure.

My first tip is set aside a whole day to thrift shop. It is a very time-consuming activity because there is SO MUCH to see in one store: clothing, shoes, books, records, furniture, the list goes on. Since most of the items you find in these stores are unique and vintage pieces from decades ago, there are more things to look at, because you won’t be pushing through the same five sweaters on a clothing rack. I also recommend going to multiple stores in one day, because like I said, thrift stores and antique shops contain things that you may not be able to find again.

My second tip is not to plan to look for anything specific. It is best to go into a thrift store with an open mind. This will allow you to pick up items that you may have not thought you’d like if you had a preconceived mindset of what it is you wanted to end up finding. Also, you tend to find the best pieces when you least expect it. Try not to develop any expectations before going into the store, because you could end up looking past a hidden gem.

My third tip is to look at EVERYTHING. Like I said earlier, there is so much to look at in thrift stores, all the way from clothing to furniture. Also, when I go thrifting, I look at the women’s AND men’s sections because the clothes are equally amazing. Most of my favorite finds are actually from the men’s sections. Clothes are just clothes, it doesn’t matter who wears them. Thrifting is a great way to step out of your comfort zone and develop a style unique to yourself.

Lastly, my fourth and final tip is to try the clothing on. If you can look past the fact that someone previously loved them, and they haven’t been washed yet, then it’s a good idea to try the clothes on, because some thrift stores can have tricky return or exchange policies. You want to be happy with your purchases and enjoy every part of the experience.