I think it’s funny how people have strong opinions about thrifting! So, what exactly is thrifting? Thrifting is the act of buying used goods – such as clothing, books, or furniture – from thrift stores, garage sales, or flea markets at discounted prices. Basically, if you are shopping for used and discounted goods, then you are thrifting!
Thrifting vs. Antiquing: What’s the Issue?
The debate begins when someone shares their “thrift haul” or says they are “thrifting,” but they’re actually shopping at an antique mall or antique shop. Antique stores sell used goods, which technically fits the definition of thrifting, but there’s one major difference—the price. Antique stores usually price their items higher because someone has already done a lot of the work in curating pieces that are old, rare, and collectible.
Are You an Antiquer or Thrifter?
How would you describe yourself? Do you love hunting for deals at thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets, or do you prefer the curated finds of antique malls and shops?
As an antique dealer, I like to shop at both! Of course, I enjoy thrifting because items are discounted! However, thrifting takes time—while you can find hidden gems, there’s also a lot of junk to sort through. Since I resell items to make a living, I need to buy low and sell high. For that reason, thrifting is appealing.
However, as an antique dealer, I also need items of a certain age and with a specific look. Sometimes, shopping at an antique mall is easier because I don’t have to dig through as much junk—just awesome vintage and antique pieces! The quality of inventory definitely makes antique shopping appealing.
And although this can be debated, you can find amazing deals—“discounts”—at an antique mall. Honestly, I have found items cheaper at an antique mall than the same item at a thrift store on numerous occasions.
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Where I Source My Inventory
Over the years, my sourcing habits have changed. When I first started selling, I focused on cheap project pieces that needed cleaning or minor repairs. I shopped at auctions and private picks, hunting for bargains.
Now, I’ve shifted my approach. I no longer have the time or desire to clean and fix items, so I predominantly shop at antique malls, shops, and traditional thrift stores. I focus more on pieces that are ready to sell rather than projects.
More About Thrifting
My Favorite Thrift Stores in Des Moines
Thrifting With The Gals
I am so excited to be a guest host for Thrifting with the Gals! This group of gals all get together each month to share their favorite monthly thrifted finds with you, along with a few tips and tricks in vintage home decorating! Be sure to check everyone out this month!
Lora | Lora Bloomquist | Create and Ponder
Thrifting vs. Antiquing – Does a Name Really Matter?
At the end of the day, both thrifting and antiquing are about the thrill of the hunt and finding unique, secondhand treasures. Whether you prefer digging through thrift stores for bargains or browsing antique shops for curated finds, both shopping styles have their appeal.
So, what do you think? Do you consider shopping at an antique mall thrifting, or do you see them as two completely different things? Let’s discuss in the comments!
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8 thoughts on “What is Thrifting?”
Brook
I enjoyed your posts! In our area the lines are blurry between antique malls and thrift stores but I love them both. So glad you joined us this month.
I love both too! People can get pretty upset when you say thrift and you are at an antique mall or antique shop, but I think it all depends on the price point! I so appreciate you guys letting me join you this month!!
In our area, people think of antiquing as more expensive and thrifting as thrift store shopping, but I use both terms interchangeably, too. What a fun idea for a blog post. Thanks for joining us Brooke!
I used to be one of the people that hated when others said they were thrifting when they were at an antique mall or shop, but with thrift store prices going up I don’t think antique stores, at least around here, have increased prices. So when I can get the same or cheaper prices at an antique store then to me it meets the definition of thrifting – used & discounted. Thanks for letting me join you!
I can see why people would have a hard time categorizing antique shopping as thrifting. But honestly, a lot of the vintage shops I go to regularly can have great, thrifty finds that can be cheaper than the expensive thrift shops that price things high as “antique”. I think thrifting is any secondhand shopping. Fun idea for a post! Thanks for joining us today:)
Exactly what you said! I’m sure it depends on the area too! I was just in Chicago and some of those antique malls would not be considered thrifty, but around Des Moines I think they are!! I appreciate you asking me to join you this month!! Thank you!
I definitely love both. You just never know what you’ll find! Thanks for joining TWTG this month!
I definitely love both too! I am always looking to resell, so I have to buy low! I often have just as much luck at an antique store as I do a thrift store! So, used and discounted as the definition, then that means some antique stores meet the definition! Thanks for letting me join you this month!!