How to thrift like a pro: Tips and tricks on scoring secondhand gems

Thrift shopping is a great way to score trending and vintage looks on a budget.

Thrifting has been around for decades but sometimes it can be a challenge to know the best ways to shop for good finds.

"Good Morning America" set out to a handful of thrift shops across the country to learn some best practices from the pros, whether you are searching for clothing for adults and kids, wedding attire, furniture or something else entirely.

Clothing

Tip 1: Ignore sizes and always try on

Yoshi Isogaya, a sales associate at Jet Rag, a vintage thrift store based in Los Angeles, told "Good Morning America" that thrifting "can be very overwhelming."

"You have to take your time and look through all the racks, have patience," Isogaya said.

While shopping at Jet Rag, "Good Morning America" lifestyle correspondent Lori Bergamotto had a similar insight to share.

"I tried on jeans three sizes up from what I normally wear and they were too tight. You have to try everything on before you find a gem," Bergamotto said.

Tip 2: Only shop for designer pieces at trusted establishments

Dom Marlowe, general buying manager at Wasteland, another vintage thrift shop based in LA, told "GMA" that shoppers should "make sure you're looking for good condition, good fabric, and you're going to a trusted place" when looking for designer items specifically.

It is important to remember to shop for designer brands only at well-established stores that have professional authenticators on staff.

Tip 3: Start with denim jeans

If you're unsure where to start, given the large inventory most thrift stores keep on hand, try kicking off your shopping trip by searching for a good pair of jeans.

"Every thrift store I went to had a large selection of jeans. Denim holds up really well over time and used jeans start with that broken-in feel and look," Bergamotto said.

Furniture thrifting

Tip 4: Don't be afraid to negotiate

"If you have a budget in mind, you can always chat with the person that's working at the store and see if there's they can give you a deal," said Christi Morais, store owner of The Blessing Barn in Mendon, Massachusetts.

Many shops are eager to clear floorspace as fast as possible to get new items on display. If you tell the shop you can take your big furniture items with you right away, they might give you an extra discount.

Tip 5: Check the sturdiness and condition of the furniture you are buying

Be sure to open all draws and check both the interior and exterior of the pieces before settling on a price.

Tip 6: Shop multi-functional pieces

When investing in any type of furniture think of ways to make pieces become multi-use. Think storage, folding and large drawers to pack things away.

Kids thrifting

Tip 7: Trade clothes in for store credit

Karen Duclosel, Founder of Thrifting Atlanta, advises trading in your kid's clothing for new sizes once they have grown out of it. "This is a perfect opportunity to make some money back," Duclosel shared.

Tip 8: Make a list of items that your kids need in advance.

It is important to thrift shop with a plan. Be sure to make a list of items that your kids need before visiting a store.

Tip 9: January is a great time to find new clothing never worn previously.

"Store usually do the quality check for you," Good Morning America's Ginger Zee continued, "Be sure to give the tag a check and you might be able to score some pieces never worn before."

Wedding thrifting

Tip 10: Go with the mismatched trend.

"It’s not a one-size fits all approach - it’s what works for you and your plan," Younis shared with "GMA". Even bridesmaids' dresses can be mismatched while on trend.

Tip 11: Grab unbeatable prices for your bridesmaid's jewelry.

Your bridesmaids are already spending a pretty penny to be in your wedding why not help them save by buying their jewelry secondhand?

Happy thrifting!