I have major shopping karma at Goodwill. I’m the type who wants to become an expert at ONE store and master it. Goodwill is that store, mostly because there are several conveniently located near my house (and I cast a small net and stay close to home). In fact, if you want to check out
Secrets of a Savvy Goodwill Shopper
You can apply these to YOUR favorite consignment or secondhand store.
The five clothing items I always look for at Goodwill.
1. White Blouses
One of my favorite features of Goodwill is that clothing is arranged by color. I look at the white blouses in sleeveless, short sleeve and long sleeve. I’ve found classic, bohemian and flowy white blouses for a steal and they’re wonderful additions to my wardrobe.
This is a particular favorite with mother of pearl buttons and ruffle details.
This one is so light weight and has lovely embroidery.
2. Jackets and Blazers
From Ann Taylor to Banana Republic, I’ve found classic and funky blazers that make a casual outfit look more professional or that keep me warm in air conditioned buildings. Black, navy and gray are classics but keep your eyes open for other fun colors and fabrics. I found an adorable pink corduroy blazer once!
This gray cropped blazer and was about $10.
Check in the long sleeve tops for cardigans, too. This navy ruffled number is Old Navy and perfect for layering.
3. Denim Blouses and Jackets
Every wardrobe needs a denim blouse. They can be worn like a jacket, tied at the waist or layered under a sweater. This one is J. Jill.
A denim jacket is also a staple item everyone needs at least one of. I love to wear mine with sun dresses.
I wear this one almost weekly. It’s a boutique brand and had the tags still on it and cost about $8.
4. Linens
Yes, I always do a sweep of the linens section to look for aprons, or scarves and wraps someone mislabeled as table runners. I often find cute tote bags, too.
This scarf was mixed in with the table linens and was about $2. It’s super soft and has little flecks of color that make it go with a variety of colors.
I do recommend actually checking the scarves section of the store, you just have to dig for the gems.
5. Dresses
You’ll be able to easily pass over the denim jumpers and thin velvet numbers from the 80s. It’s worth sifting through them to find special occasion dresses or a classic LBD (Little Black Dress).
My favorite knee-length black sleeveless dress from J. Jill came from Goodwill. I often wear it with the above mentioned denim jacket.
This floral dress was another Goodwill find in a junior’s size that I wore to my Valentine’s Day tea party in 2015. I wouldn’t have spent $40 retail on this, but I was happy to spend $8!
Shopping at Goodwill can be overwhelming so I hope this list of clothing items I always look for at Goodwill help you shop on purpose and unearth some fun treasures to add to your wardrobe, or just to wear for a special occasion.
What was your latest thrift store find? What questions do you have after secondhand shopping? Leave a comment or head on over to the Facebook page.
I thought socks were a asked about item? I have tons of golf shirts too, they are in great shape. Have only been worn 1 or twice I hope they can use them. Thank You, I am a great believer in goodwill. Bruce Butler