Would you buy clothes from thrift shops, Goodwill, or the Salvation Army?

Question

I have known a few people before that have told me they would never wear clothing that was used by another person unless they knew them. I am just curious to see if this is common.

Answer 1

I do, but usually for costume purposes. Most of the shops around here only have stuff that is SERIOUSLY outdated.

Answer 2

I've been shopping in thrift and second hand stores since I was 12 and have found some incredible pieces. I could give you a lot of advice on how to go about it, but I don't think that's what you're asking.

Personally, I'm pretty sure that if you wash or dry-clean a piece of clothing, it is then clean and acceptable to wear. Anything else is superstition or irrational squeamishness. A lot of people don't have the money to dress really well and I, for one, would rather wear a second-hand Dior skirt then a new one from Old Navy. It's a helpful resource for people needing good clothing for work or any purpose, really.

Vintage is another thing. The only real difference is the word itself, the price and the shop you buy it in. The shop does the work for you, finding good pieces and winnowing out the garbage and you pay for that service. Shopping vintage is very trendy, which makes it all the more silly when someone says they would never shop at a thrift store.

As far as what's common...I've never had a friend who minded something really good coming from a second hand shop.

Answer 3

With 2 children who are growing like weeds, buying 2nd hand clothes is definately an option for me, however the clothing has to meet certain standards.

For example, it can not be 5 years out of date, ripped or stained, etc. I would never, ever buy 2nd hand underwear.

I've actually found that the Salvo's don't have alot of choice sometimes, and that a pair of jeans can cost $15 second hand.

So, I usually wait for the sales to begin. I can buy jeans for $5, and they are new.

I went camping once and forgot to pack a sweater. Went to the thrift shop and the only one there was ugly. But it was $2 and I was heading into the wilderness, so it was a good buy.

When you are on a budget, these stores are a blessing.

I also buy 2nd hand clothes from e-bay, on top of that, one of my friends' daughter is a couple of years older than mine and sometimes offers me some lovely items of clothing.

Answer 4

Not only do I haunt the places regularly for unwanted Barbie dolls, I shop there for major things like suits and formal shirts. Once they're clean, they're as good as new. And I like the idea that the money I spend there goes to help pay for job assistance for afflicted people--I was once trained on computers by Goodwill, and funds from the stores paid for the teacher and equipment. It's fun to think how the money goes around.

Answer 5

yea i do, you find better gear there for amazing prices. one thing i never understood, was how people buy shirts that say "Amsterdam" yet they are neither Dutch nor have they ever visited.

i like pickin up shirts from places i've been to. conversation starters and reminds me that i was actually there (fading memory problems)

if i travel in the States, i make sure i stop by a Goodwill nearby. interesting stuff.

few people you know sound shallow and stuck up. as if a complete stranger has some life threatening disease.

if you decide to go, definitely wash the clothes before you put them on.

Answer 6

i already do that when i see something i like. As a matter of fact i was at a thrift store a few weeks ago and found this dress that had a really nice plaid bottom but an ugly top, so i am going to cut off the bottom and make it into a plaid skirt, And make the sleeves into arm warmers.

Answer 7

Over the years, I have bought many items at used clothing stores. At work, I've gotten compliments on many things that I've worn. My coworkers are always disappointed when they find out I bought something at a thrift store because that means chances are practically non-existant that they can find the same thing for themselves.

Answer 8

Any thrift store that can save u money ,is a good store.To me it keeps money in my pocket. most of my music cd,s came from good will and other places. Music like Def Leppard , Motley Crue ,Van Halen.Cinderella,and White lion, These are only a few that i have;That came from places like that.I bought 10 cd's for about $20.00 at $2.00 a pieace. Tell me that's not saving some money. Lets see u go to your nearest Wal-Mart and buy your favorite music cd's for that price.

Answer 9

When we moved from Florida to NY, I , a native Floridian had never experienced winter (like with snow ). My kid's Dad, who was from NY never mentioned that the kids, and I, were going to need winter gear. We got here in August. It got cold in October. My neighbor started dropping off strange things like gloves and scarves, and second hand jackets. It got really cold.

I took myself and the children to the salvation army. We got turtlenecks, coats, gloves, jackets and all the things you need to survive winter. I could never have afforded to do all of us at the same time if it hadn't been for the Salvation Army.

Of course, they're older now and just won't do it. But that first winter, thank God.....

Answer 10

I would, if the price is right. I'm awfully cheap (minimal salary, so I actually have to be...) and I can find brand new clothes at Wal*Mart or K*Mart on clearance for cheaper than the used stuff is at Sal's sometimes. Clothes are clothes. Just wash them and they're clean. If you find a good deal, then great, and if not, well, better luck next time. I think it's actually more fun to hunt than it is to just go pick up something off the shelf.

Answer 11

I love going to the thrift stores. I have found some great items. My curtains are from a thrift store that helps women, I love them.