Dancer’s Thrift 101: Fashion Finds for Performance & Everyday Style
Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely love thrifting. It's my go-to, especially for auditions. Those last-minute calls where you need a cowboy outfit or an all-blue ensemble? Thrifting has saved me countless times. While it's not always necessary, dressing the part can make you stand out. 😉
How I Got Into Thrifting
I was introduced to thrifting by my aunt during her photoshoots. She’d partner with local thrift stores to curate themed shoots, and we’d go shopping for looks. I was surprised by how many cute, clean, and affordable clothing items I found while sifting through bins and hangers. As I got older, I started thrifting more and more, and to my surprise, some of the outfits I’ve received the most compliments on have been thrifted!
It’s not just about vintage items. I’ve been able to find designer pieces from brands like Christian Dior, Gucci, Oscar de la Renta, and Burberry.
The Thrift Store Strategy: How I Find the Best Pieces
Before I head to the thrift store, I usually look it up on Yelp to get a sense of what others have found there and what the store looks like. Depending on what others are finding, it gets me excited and gives me an idea of what I might come across.
Once I get to the store, I always take my time. Scope out the entire store (aka do a lap) and make sure to look high and low! Thrift stores can be a bit messy, and sometimes the good stuff is hidden away in bins, under tables, or smushed in between other clothes… so don’t overlook any corner.
Create a Moodboard with Pinterest to Stay on Track
When you're on a mission to find something specific, creating a mood board is a game-changer. My go-to tool is Pinterest. I create a vision board with a few photos of what I’m looking for, and it helps keep me focused while I sift through the racks. Having a visual reference makes it so much easier to spot the perfect piece, and you’ll be surprised how much faster your eye will catch the exact vibe you're after. Trust me, it makes thrifting way more efficient!
Shopping Tips: How to Save and Still Look Fabulous
Here are a few of my top tips for shopping at thrift stores:
Wear something easy to change in and out of. This will make trying on clothes a lot quicker and smoother. Some thrift stores did away with changing rooms, so ideally I usually love leggings or shorts and a tank (depending on the season or how serious I am about finding what I need).
If you find something you love, but it’s overpriced, don’t be afraid to pass on it. There are so many thrift stores, and if it’s overpriced here, you’re sure to find it somewhere else.
If you’re looking for something specific, moodboards are your best friend. Pinterest is perfect for this! Create a vision board with a few images of what you’re looking for, and it’ll make sifting through racks easier. Trust me, it works! Your eye will naturally catch things that fit your inspiration.
Negotiating: If you find a great piece but it has a small flaw (like fraying or a stain), ask if they’d be willing to drop the price a little. This doesn’t always work, but it’s worth a shot. Don’t get your hopes up too high though!
Thrifting for Denim: Jeans and More
Jeans are one of the easiest things to thrift for! You can find so many different silhouettes, styles, and sizes. Plus, DIYing thrifted jeans into shorts is a great way to update your wardrobe without spending a lot. Whether you need classic, oversized, or fitted jeans, the thrift store is the place to look.
JEANS HACK: Wrap the waistband around your neck. If the waistband fits comfortably, you’re good to go!
The Golden Rule: Wash or Dry Clean Everything!
Here’s a piece of advice you definitely don’t want to forget: Before you wear anything you get from a thrift store, wash it or get it dry cleaned! Seriously, 99.9% of the time, the people who donate clothes don’t wash them before they drop them off. Trust me, you’ll want to clean them before wearing them — no exceptions.
Thinking Outside the Box: Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
Sometimes, thrifted pieces might seem “weird” at first. But don’t be afraid to get creative! You can layer, cut, tuck-in, or pin pieces to make them work for your style. I can’t tell you how many unique outfits I’ve put together just by thinking outside the box.
Explore Outside Your Local Neighborhood:
When it comes to thrifting, sometimes the best finds are just outside your immediate area. Instead of sticking to the thrift stores near your home, try driving 20-30 minutes outside of your usual shopping radius. Trust me, these hidden gems can be where you find the most unique treasures. Different areas often have different inventory, and you may stumble upon items that aren't available in the more popular spots.
And if you’re looking for even more options, don't overlook estate sales, garage sales, and yard sales! These often have one-of-a-kind pieces that you won’t find in a store. Websites like EstateSales.net and Facebook Marketplace are great tools to use when hunting for vintage finds or designer steals. You might be surprised at the treasures waiting for you in someone's backyard or attic. Expand your search beyond your usual spots — you never know what you’ll uncover!
Don't Be Discouraged by the Size – Tailoring is Your Friend!
If you come across a piece you absolutely love but it’s a little too large, don’t stress! The art of tailoring is often overlooked, but it’s a game-changer. Take your find to a tailor and get it altered to fit you perfectly. A well-tailored piece will make all the difference in your overall look, and it's a small investment that can make a thrifted piece feel like it was made just for you.
Final Thoughts: Thrift, Create, and Stand Out!
Thrifting is not only a great way to save money, but it’s also a fantastic tool for creating unique, standout outfits for auditions and performances. By keeping an open mind and following a few simple tips, you’ll be able to find some of the best pieces for your wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for vintage gems or designer steals, the thrift store is your playground.
Remember: Fashion is another form of storytelling. Use your wardrobe to express who you are — and to help you shine on stage or in auditions.
