Back-to-school season was always more than just a checklist for me. It was a fresh start; a chance to express who I was through my personal style. I remember wanting to feel trendy and current, but in a way that still felt like me. So I spent summers during middle school seeking inspiration from my favorite brands and magazines (bare with me, this was before Pinterest and TikTok) then I’d turn to thrift stores (especially Goodwill®) to build my outfits and personal style. Whether you’re headed to school or you’re shopping for a student, these are the go-to steps I’ve followed throughout my years as a thrifter to help you find back-to-school looks that feel like you.
Category: Shop
Summer Upcycle Inspo Project: DIY Earring Holder
Warm weather and sunshine can get the creative juices flowing. Plus, these longer days mean we have more time to get to all the projects we’ve been dreaming of doing. Decluttering and organizing have long been a great way to start a new season with a sense of freshness and possibility. Letting go of what no longer serves you to make room for what you need at the moment can be such an important part of the process, but one that oftentimes gets skipped. Look at the different parts of your life to see where you want to focus first. For me, finding a matching pair of my earrings has been one of those areas. It was finally time to do something about it with the help of my DIY earring holder.
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Celebrate Summer with Stars, Stripes and Understated Structure
Sunshine, BBQs and spending time with friends can be the recipe for a perfect Fourth of July weekend to celebrate the summer holiday. If you’re lucky enough to get a long weekend off work for the holiday, you might be starting to think about the perfect look for your plans.
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Curate Your Own Thrifted Picnic for International Picnic Day
International Picnic Day is on June 18th this year, and it’s the perfect excuse to put together an impromptu family fun day outdoors. Picnics can be a relaxing change of pace from daily life and a nice moment to unplug and enjoy nature. Pair this extra time in the sunshine with family or friends, delicious food, and special finds from Goodwill® and you can’t go wrong.
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Kick Off Summer in Memorial Day Style
While Memorial Day is a time to remember those who gave their lives in service to our country, it’s also the unofficial start of summer. It’s the perfect time to jump into the new season with fresh new looks. You don’t have to spend a fortune to pull together a stylish summer outfit.
DIY Mother’s Day Gift: Thrifted Wildflower Candle
As the years go by, it becomes more and more clear that the most precious part of life is time, and it’s our job to make the most of it. If you are lucky enough to still have your parents or paternal figures in your life, honoring them on their special days is an amazing way to show your appreciation for all they’ve done for you and the impact they’ve had on your life.
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Incorporate Your Love of Reading in Your Home Décor
You don’t need to get on an expensive flight to have a new experience or a taste of a new culture. Books can help with that, providing a new adventure with the turn of a page. Reading can be one of life’s most precious joys, taking you out of reality for a few minutes and into another world through storytelling. But books are more than fiction — they’re educational, protectors of history, sparks of creativity and even décor.
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The Cutest Thrifted DIY Easter Centerpiece That Costs Under $10
April showers have been upon us, but spring is blooming and Easter celebrations are nearing. I am hosting Easter this year, and it’s important to me that I prep as much as I can in advance. I love personalized touches, like a DIY Easter Bunny centerpiece that features flowers from my own garden and a beautiful vase from my favorite Goodwill® store.
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Spring Break Statement Pieces to Keep You in Style All Spring
Spring break is the perfect time to celebrate friends and warmer weather. Tradition includes travel to a warmer place where you can relax and let loose after final exams. Sometimes, in the midst of studying and packing, you might not have time to head to multiple stores to shop—if any! Fortunately, Goodwill can be a one stop shop for all your vacation needs, a place where you can find special statement pieces at more affordable prices than retail that you’ll be wearing on repeat all spring and summer long.
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Going for Bold Fashion This Women’s History Month
Just like every woman has a unique voice, every woman has a unique style. It’s not always easy to speak out and be true to yourself. It can take courage to express yourself through your clothes, but we have plenty of women we can take inspiration from. As we celebrate Women’s History Month this March, I’m drawing inspiration and strength from the achievements of the amazing women in our lives, and throughout history. That can be a great place to start when it comes to going bold.
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Thrift vs. Fast Fashion: Why Gen Z Is Choosing Secondhand
As sustainability takes center stage in the fashion industry, a new wave of consumers is redefining style choices. Gen Z, in particular, is gravitating towards thrift shopping as a way to express individuality while promoting eco-friendly practices. With a keen awareness of what's wrong with fast fashion, this generation is not just looking for unique pieces but also considering the ethical implications of its purchases.
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Valentine’s Day Date Idea That Won’t Break the Bank: A Thrift Date at Goodwill®
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and love is in the air. With it comes the reminder to show your appreciation for the loved ones in your life through thoughtful moments, experiences or gifts. I’ve personally always loved Valentine’s Day because it’s more personalized than some of the other holidays, making it an opportunity to show your loved ones how well you know them and how much you care for them.
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