When we got sent home from school in March, I discovered I had a lot of time on my hands. Instead of doing puzzles, reading a book, or learning to bake, I decided to begin to explore the world of fashion. 

Unlike most of you wonderful readers, for most of my 20 years, I have never really cared about my clothing. In middle school, it was basketball shorts and Nike Elite socks. In high school, it was khakis and a sweatshirt. Over quarantine, however, I began to realize that fashion is such a great way to express yourself without ever saying a word. I began to follow fashion accounts on social media, taking note of what artists and athletes wore and talking to my fashionable friends. 

I only had one problem: I am broke as f—k.

So I decided to start thrifting! At first, it was completely online—I stumbled across a few Instagram accounts that resold mostly vintage t-shirts, and I was able to shop for some sweet graphic tops while browsing social media. 

But one of the best parts of thrift shopping is the experience: taking pictures in the store, rifling through the overwhelming amount of clothes racks, and giggling with your friends when they hold up some ridiculous dress from 1894. So this year, I want to write about every thrift shop I can find in Boston and tell you about my finds and experiences. It gives me an excuse to do what I love while documenting it for some more dope, fashion-loving people. 

Welcome to my thrift series!

Savers 

1230 VFW Pkwy, West Roxbury MA, 02132

Savers is a massive warehouse with lines of racks as far as the eye can see. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but after I dove into the men’s clothing section I found a sweet long sleeve pink polo and a hawaiian shirt made out of jersey mesh. Perfect darty garb. I had some funky energy that day, so I wandered into the dress section and bought a long-sleeve cotton dress that hung at my ankles and will most definitely keep me warm on these cold Boston mornings. Hopefully I can attach a picture of that bad boy. I’m starting a collection of cheap sunglasses too, and I bought a nice $2 bedazzled pair. 

I was pleasantly surprised with the selection at Savers—I could’ve spent a lot of time in there, endlessly browsing their racks for more and more offbeat finds. It’s about a 20 minute drive from campus, but a five minute drive from Chick-fil-A, so I’ll leave it up to you to decide if that trip is worth it or not (it is).

The Garment District

200 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02139

I’ve been to the Garment District a few times. Their two-story building holds tons of nooks for photo-ops and a diverse selection of windbreakers, jackets, and tons of faded denim. Half of their selection is costumes, and though they’re a little expensive, it’s definitely a good stop before Halloween. I picked up an ‘80s-esque polo with a deep collar 

Full disclosure, the Garment District has always been a bit underwhelming for me. Their prices are on the higher side, and I can never seem to find anything I love. However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and at the very least, the Garment District is in a beautiful neighborhood and is a great spot for a photoshoot. 

I’m excited to keep you guys updated on the Boston thrift game. Hopefully I thrift some more funky finds for low prices. Either way,  I’ll be here to let you know! 

Peace!