What’s Big With Thrifting?

By: Haley Michelson

Thrifting, both for clothing and antiques has become very popular within the past year. It’s seen as a cool and more eco-friendly way to find new pieces whether that be of clothing, jewelry, or a cool mirror. Thrifting has been seen as a ‘hobby’ or a ‘trend’ in some ways, but in reality, it is more of a way to discover interesting finds for good prices.

Peyton Sa, ‘23, says, “A few years ago I started going to antique stores with my mom, and I learned to love it.” Antiques have been very popular as of right now with people finding unique accessories for decorations. People with an eye for antiques even find rare items to further sell on their own.

Sa says, “I really just like to look around, but I enjoy finding vintage toys like Care Bears and Comic Books.” Many things cannot be bought in stores. When looking for anything vintage, it’s way better to find them used. Sa Says, “I recommend anywhere in Cayucos. The ones downtown in Cayucos are great,” when it comes to good antique stores. With recommendations on where to go, many are able to have a fun and interesting experience going to different places.

Michelle Castaneda, ‘23, says, “It started thrifting about five years ago and I really liked it because they had clothes I could afford while also in good quality.” Thrift stores are great for finding clothes that are in great condition for reasonable prices while not having to spend too much money on clothes from name-brand stores that might not be the best. Castaneda goes on to say, “Now if I need pants or necessary clothes I try to find it at a thrift store…I’m always on the look for new books.”

Thrift stores offer many things for great prices and are always a great option for a place to go. Castaneda says, “Most people would usually say rescued treasures (for places to go) but my recommendation would be for the American Cancer Society Discovery shop.”

Having more recommendations on places to go and find unique things is ideal, especially for those who are new to thrifting or finding antiques.

Raelene Deleon, ‘23, started to go thrifting in September of last year, she says, “I like having the experience of finding different clothing and jewelry. I also like having to meet new people…” Thrifting is a fun experience where many people are able to find cool and unique pieces of clothing as well as jewelry/accessories.

New trends from within clothes where thrifting ultimately plays into, Deleon says, “I usually look for corset tops, baggy jeans and jewelry…(goes thrifting) 4-7 times a month…but not very often due to the pandemic.” Though it is hard to be able to go thrifting because of COVID, there are still some cool places to check out, Deleon adds, “I would definitely recommend reduced treasures by the Visalia mall and goodwill…”

Thrifting may seem as though it is a ‘trend’ or a ‘hobby,’ but really anyone could do it and find some awesome and unique things.