JustClaxthe

of thrifting. With each clothing item ringing up as $1 or less, you can’t beat it. Its awkward hours and cluttered atmosphere make it a little difficult to fully commit to the gems that lie beyond the doors of Barkin’ Barn at first. I am here to tell you that the digging and rummaging is completely worth it in the end.

I now go to Goodwill and feel like I am paying too much for what I’m getting. Just a simple snip of the shoulder pads in their dresses and shirts, and Barkin’ Barn can provide you with a cheap unique vintage ensemble. Even if the item is worn once, that dollar you spend is less money than what you would spend on a large happy hour cherry limeade from Sonic.

Now, there is such a thing as thrift store overload. Getting too comfortable with the styles of the ’80s and ’90s can be dangerous.

Sometimes people get too creative, and a little too gutsy, putting patterns together that really don’t match and buying things that really don’t fit. “I’ll have to work with it,” they’ll tell you. Even if thrifting is trendy, not everything thrifty is pleasing to the eyes.

The trick behind the thrifting process is getting things that do not look like they came fresh out of the gates of Goodwill. That means no fading, tears, holes or unnecessary bagginess. There’s also something about a suit dress that I’m not completely sold on either. Thrifting is a glorious thing, but getting caught in the trap of cheap deals and cheap thrills can be addictive.

KAELYN TAVERNIT is a guest contributor for The Bison. She may be contacted at ktaverni@ harding.edu.