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If thrift stores and Dollar Tree are already part of your weekly shopping routine, a polished family wardrobe may be within reach. A few smart finds and simple fixes can help stretch your clothing budget.
What Secondhand Clothing Is Actually Worth Buying?
Stick with versatile basics like blazers, button-downs, jeans, sweaters and simple dresses that mix easily with what you already own.
Start with wardrobe staples, know your personal style and avoid buying something just because it’s trendy, according to Goodwill’s thrift-shopping guide. Before buying, check the seams, buttons, zippers and fabric condition. A broken zipper or thinning fabric could cost more to fix than you saved. Think about how often you’ll actually wear something before deciding it’s worth buying.
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How Can Dollar Tree Accessories Make a Thrifted Outfit Look More Expensive?
One well-chosen accessory can pull a basic secondhand outfit together without another clothing purchase.
Combining color, pattern, texture and shine creates a more interesting look, according to Goodwill’s outfit-styling advice. Try adding a belt to shape a loose dress or pairing simple jewelry with a thrifted blazer. Dollar Tree lists inexpensive hair accessories, including claw clips with a charm. Selection and availability vary by store. Stick with one or two accessories that complement the outfit.
How Do Dollar Tree Finds Upgrade Thrifted Clothes?
Some thrifted pieces only need a loose button secured or a small seam repaired. Inexpensive sewing supplies can help with these minor fixes.
Goodwill’s clothing makeover tutorial shows how a thrifted dress became a strapless sundress using cutting, stitching and elastic. Dollar Tree lists a Crafter’s Square travel sewing kit that can help with loose buttons and small seam repairs. The retailer has also offered ribbons and beads for DIY projects. These can add decorative touches to pockets, cuffs or collars.
Keep the cost of your upgrades below what the garment is worth.
How Can You Style 1 Thrifted Piece Several Different Ways?
Styling the same clothing in different ways can help stretch a family’s wardrobe budget.
Goodwill’s guide to styling a white dress shows how one thrifted dress can work for the office, an evening out or a casual day. Changing accessories and layering pieces can give the same dress a different look.
Wear a button-down with jeans one day, then pair it with trousers or a skirt the next. A claw clip can create a casual look, while simple jewelry adds a dressier touch. A cardigan or different shoes can also change the feel of an outfit.
What Fashion Mistakes Should Budget Shoppers Avoid?
Buying something just because it’s cheap can lead to unnecessary spending, even at thrift store prices.
Goodwill’s thrift-shopping advice suggests using belts to shape oversized clothing. It also recommends folding or hemming jeans to improve their fit.
Avoid spending money on Dollar Tree accessories or DIY supplies for clothing with major damage or a poor fit. Not every thrifted item needs an upgrade. Sometimes, a well-fitting jacket looks best with simple styling. Shop your own closet before buying anything new.
