Two words: Treasure Hunt. If these words raise a sense, or even an inkling of excitement, thrifting is probably your jam. For those not in the know, thrifting is the act of scoring sweet deals at second hand stores. From consignment, to antique retail and garage sales, to thrift stores, there is a plethora of outlets for those wanting to get their savvy savings on.
There are a myriad of reasons to thrift, each one with its own unique appeal. One of the most implicit reasons is simply the thrill of the hunt. Others may enjoy the feeling of knowing that the item purchased was saved from a slow death in a landfill, especially as trash is a real and growing problem for the planet. When you shop secondhand, you can pat yourself on the back for giving something a second life! Then there is the act of supporting local businesses and nonprofits. Choose the cause or business you want to support and not only shop there, but donate unused items in your own home to them and keep the thrifting loop going.
Another great reason to thrift is the nature of what is on offer. Instead of grabbing a perfectly packaged yet predictable product from a big box store, go for the unique, the one of a kind, the special. Find that funky vintage sweetness and make your wardrobe and home stand out.
Thrifting is also a great way to make your dollars really count. With prices on the rise all around us, why not get that T-shirt for $4 instead of $30? It just makes cents - pun most definitely intended.
Tips and Tricks
Make a list. What are you looking for? The magic of thrifting is that you never know what you will find. That can also easily lead toward a sense of feeling overwhelmed. Give yourself the gift of focus and know what you’re browsing for.
Set a timer. Spending an hour searching for finds can happen in the blink of an eye. One could call this power shopping. Give yourself 20 or 30 minutes of focused time.
Be intentional with your purchases. Ask yourself: is this item going to bring you joy or simply add clutter to your home? Put the item in your arms or cart and let the idea of taking it home marinate while you continue the hunt. Do you love it? Do you need it?
Here Be Bargains
Delta has a healthy mix of secondhand stores. Upscale Resale and 4th & Main Exchange boast lots of unique finds, primarily in the antique category. Seeking out a vintage book or just something new to read? More Than Books on Main Street might have just what you’re looking for. Don’t forget to hit the Salvation Army before leaving town.
Montrose is plumb full of nooks and crannies in which to get your thrift on. Habitat for Humanity ReStore has a host of tools, home improvement items, furniture, clothes and more. Heirlooms for Hospice and Second Impressions are smaller, but boast a more organized selection of goods. As the name may suggest, Classy Closet is mainly consignment clothing for both men and women, and let’s not leave out Country Flair Antique Emporium with its multiple booths of antique and craft vendors.
Ridgway and Ouray also have a few hidden gems. Second Chance Thrift Store in Ridgway supports the Second Chance Animal Shelter and has a mix of everything from kitchen items to clothes to gear. The Vault Vintage and Consignment, also in Ridgway, has a somewhat more curated selection than Second Chance, with more one-of-a-kind finds. Red Mountain Trading Post in Ouray has a mix of old and new items, with a preference for old American-made items.
Happy thrifting!