Fall is definitely here! A new season means a wardrobe change, a couple of holiday gatherings (maybe), renos & redecorating, and maybe a little bit of DIY. Here are a few tips and suggestions for thrifting in Fall!

1. Buy Second Hand Clothes Before Investing in Brand New Pieces

We’re all tempted to start shopping (online or in store) for trendy new Fall clothing items and completely disregard the gently used variety. Second hand shops are a plethora of awesome fashion finds!

Related Post: Easy Summer to Fall Outfit Ideas

• Browse carefully – and thoroughly – through all the racks of every day clothing items. Denim, jackets, sweaters, shoes, handbags, dresses – there are certainly a few hidden gems in there somewhere. You just have to take the time to look!
• Kids need some new Autumn digs too! Be sure to check out the children’s sections as well.
• Do not forget to inspect the men’s section. Not for your SO! For you! Be on the look out for rocker tees, flannel shirts, cozy knits, and even jeans!

2. Got a Project on the go at Home? Perhaps a Repurposed Thrift Store Find will Fit the Bill!

It is amazing, sometimes, what you can find at a thrift store! Everything from gently used dressers and cabinets to vases and picture frames. Sometimes, these items look like they’ve hardly been used at all! Put in a little elbow grease to clean up the piece or apply a coat of paint to suit the look you are going for – and voila!! Decor on a budget!

3. Feeling Crafty or Creative?

Let’s get real here for a moment – I’m not a super crafty person! But there’s something really touching and personal about a gift or decor piece that was made with two loving hands instead of just being purchased at a store! Here are a few ideas for DIY decor and creative crafts using thrifted items!

• Sweater Pumpkins. There a loads of tutorials on Pinterest for these adorable and surprisingly chic pumpkins! Match your home’s colour scheme or keep the patterns neutral. Be sure to gift a few to neighbours and friends!
• Patchwork Quilts. Browse all the clothing aisles of your local sally-anne for unique fabrics and patterns for a one of a kind quilt! Don’t forget to check out the linens and crafting sections of the thrift shops as well. You’d be shocked at what some folks donate!
• Chalkboard Serving Trays. Scour the second hand stores for large silver or wood serving trays and simply brush on a coat of chalkboard paint! Make them for the holidays with fun quotes or convert them into a family message board or weekly dinner menu board.

4. Autumn (& even Christmas) Decor Treasure Trove!

When local residents load up unwanted items to donate to thrift stores – they really do donate EVERYTHING! Not only clothing, housewares, toys, and shoes are given away – but holiday decorations and festivity specific items! A local thrift store that I frequently donate to and shop at regularly features items specific to an upcoming holiday.

Since Fall is in full swing, thrift shops will be displaying and promoting unique Autumn decor, Thanksgiving pieces, and Halloween costumes. Same goes for Christmas! Tree ornaments, collectible plates, and figurines will be available at a steal of a price!

Keep in mind that thrifting in Fall (or any time of year) doesn’t necessarily have to be done in store! Be sure to browse online closet clean-outs on social platforms, Facebook buy & sell groups, and even through conversations with friends and co-workers who may be purging and downsizing at home.