How to Support a Cause in Style

You can be trendy and thrifty, while looking good and feeling even better by shopping at a charity thrift store. Do this by creating your wardrobe with the Salvation Army’s slogan in mind: “Refresh, recycle and restyle.”

Refresh. We’re a few weeks into the New Year, and although it’s not time for spring cleaning, you might have already cleaned out your closet, making room for new looks. Perhaps you still have some items remaining in your closet, so why not try putting a fresh twist on something old? Go out and see what pieces are waiting to be united to make a rocking outfit.

Recycle. Although the garments are second-hand, there are good-quality pieces—you just have to choose wisely as you’ll want to make sure what you’re picking out is decent enough to wear (outside your home, or wherever you plan on wearing it). Be cautious of stains and damaged areas—check the seams for loose stitching and holes in the fabric. Go here for more tips on thrift store shopping. Also, being trendy isn’t just fashion-related. Being ecologically friendly by reusing garments and reducing waste is a trend that is being set and should be followed.

Restyle. Browse through the selections and mix and match articles to create various looks. The 60’s, 70’s and 80’s are all making their returns, so spice up the pieces you’ve found by adding funky and edgy accessories. There are so many possible looks to assemble that thrift shops can be seen as fashion museums, with the shopper making the “artifacts” come to life. You can also think of it like exchanging clothes with your friends—swap your blue sweater that’s no longer your style for a yellow cardigan. Wear it over a white frilly shirt with a high-waisted skirt, a pair of stockings and a brown leather belt for a cute vintage look.

If you’re on a tight budget, shopping like this will also be a way for you to stretch a dollar. Especially after the holidays, you might not be up for spending a whole lot. And after having the stress of shopping for other people’s gifts, you can just have fun looking for something for yourself. With eight locations in Toronto, the Salvation Army asks that gently-used clothing be donated at your local thrift store. Be inspired by the three “R”s and purchase your next outfit at a thrift shop or make a donation.