When I was growing up, I never darkened the doorway of a thrift store. Back then there was shame in needing to buy a stranger’s castoffs. By college I was a fan of antique stores–used stuff, but of a different caliber–but I couldn’t afford anything. Once eBay was in full bloom and I had a bit of disposable money, I loved buying (and wearing) secondhand vintage clothes and jewelry. And in most cases they were better quality and cheaper than new stuff.
But it took opening my online vintage store 13 years ago before I actually entered my first brick-and-mortar thrift store. I was nervous and embarrassed. That old stigma still lingered in my mind. But after a few visits I got over it. One, I realized that thrifting was kinda cool and two, there was good stuff to be found at amazing prices! Not only stuff for my store but things for me and my house–fabulous pottery, leather purses (three that I use regularly), my leather coat, artwork, so many nice things.
I wish I had been open to thrift stores much, much earlier in my life. It would have been so useful in decorating our house and clothing our daughters. (The mantel display below includes an Art Nouveau-era German brass box and a painting that were bought on eBay and a perfect frame and the alabaster urn that were bought at thrift stores.)
And for those of us who are retired and may be on a stricter budget, thrift stores allow us the fun of shopping while being more frugal. Plus it’s eco friendly. Of course you don’t need to be retired to be on a budget. With higher prices and more job insecurity these days it makes sense to economize when we can.
To whet your appetite here’s a bounty of fabulous items that I left behind at my local Goodwill the other day–a Cutty Sark pitcher, a Waterford Alana crystal creamer and a Villeroy & Boch creamer. (The total for all three was about $20.)
Happy thrifting.
Today's Women of Age 
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