Living in the South means appreciating the finer aspects of life without neglecting financial prudence, and one of the most rewarding ways to do this is by embracing the world of secondhand shopping. Not only does purchasing previously owned items align with our commitment to environmental stewardship, but it also allows us to own sought-after brands at a fraction of their original price. Perhaps you’ll find your children dressed in cherished hand-me-downs from a dear friend or inherited family treasures from your grandmother’s collection.
Whether you come across pre-worn garments by chance or intention, ensuring they look their best is a must. This involves a bit of elbow grease or, at the very least, a thorough wash. Cortnie Rohr, the owner of Retro Clothing Closet in Asheville and Marion, North Carolina, shares her insights, “When sourcing secondhand attire, you might need to invest some initial effort to restore the item to its wearable splendor.”
Yet, as the trend of reuse gains momentum, constructing a sustainable wardrobe is a simple yet effective method of preventing garments from ending up in landfills. Siobhan Haines, also known as The Lake Gypsy, who upcycles and resells preloved pieces, emphasizes, “The concept of keeping textiles out of the waste is a significant benefit of purchasing vintage and secondhand clothing.” Here are seven expert tips to help you make the most of your secondhand treasures once they’re in your possession.
Reviving a thrifted tee or an heirloom gown is as simple as giving it a fresh wash. “I always suggest washing all clothing as soon as you bring it home,” says Bethany Simonds, a reseller in Charlotte, North Carolina, who shares her finds on Instagram via Just Thrift It. Check the care label, usually found at the back of the neck or the left side seam, and adhere to the instructions meticulously. Don’t forget to apply a stain pretreatment for extra cleaning power.
But what if the tags are missing or the garment is too old to have one? “Vintage items often lack their care instructions, so you might need to brush up on fabric care,” Rohr points out. Fabrics like wool and silk usually require dry cleaning, while synthetic materials and natural fabrics like cotton and linen can be hand-washed or gently machine-washed and air-dried.
Your local dry cleaner can be a lifesaver when it comes to rejuvenating secondhand garments. Haines, who upcycles and resells in Virginia, still seeks assistance with delicate fabrics. “I’ve formed incredible relationships with reliable dry cleaners for fabrics too delicate for home laundering,” she says. A reputable service can determine whether a fabric needs dry cleaning or can be hand-washed.
While you might be turned off by odorous fabrics at the store, you might not have a choice with family heirlooms. “Sometimes it takes a soak or multiple washes to eliminate stored odors,” Rohr advises. Over the years, Haines has developed a natural solution for keeping clothes fresh and free of smells. “The sun and a few drops of very dilute cedarwood oil, combined with detergent, are often the best remedies,” she notes. Drying clothes in the open air and sunshine is an age-old practice that remains effective today.
Both Simonds and Haines suggest removing pilling from worn areas to refresh the look of your finds. While a sweater shaver is a quick fix, Haines has a different approach. “For knit fabrics, I find that a cheap men’s disposable razor works better than any tool I’ve bought,” she says. Pilling can affect sweaters, tees, and pants, detracting from the quality of even the finest garments. A lint brush or roller can help gather any lingering fur or fabric bits.
It’s crucial to inspect clothing for flaws and consider repair options before purchasing, particularly for Simonds. “It’s important to evaluate the damage and decide if it’s fixable or worth the time and money,” she explains. While Simonds often passes on items that require too much work, there are simple repairs you can learn to do.
“Repairing a torn seam, replacing a button, mending a hole, hemming, and stain treatment are all skills that almost anyone can master,” Rohr reveals. If you fall in love with a piece or wish to preserve an heirloom, an alterations shop can be a great resource. “Due to the sustainability factor, I find making repairs to be a worthwhile endeavor,” Rohr adds. “Vintage items may have minor condition issues, but they rarely need to be discarded.”
For Haines, her passion for upcycling leads her to take on more challenging repairs. “Investing in a simple sewing machine is essential for even basic repairs,” she says. “It’s also a fantastic way to maintain your current wardrobe.” Learning to hem and replace buttons is a valuable skill that can be quickly picked up. “There’s a wealth of information on TikTok and YouTube for those who are eager to learn,” Haines adds.
Just as Southerners take pride in maintaining their belongings, from fine silverware to outdoor garden decorations, the same care should be applied to clothing. Simonds recommends storing seasonally appropriate garments properly and inspecting them after each wear to ensure they remain in good condition. “When storing for the off-season, make sure they’re freshly cleaned,” she advises. “Hang garments in a cool, dry place and avoid folding delicate pieces. You can also use acid-free tissue paper and a storage box to preserve them,” she adds.
Once your garments are in perfect condition, don’t let them gather dust in your closet. Embrace the uniqueness of a printed sundress or a handcrafted sweater, and wear your finds with pride. “I love discovering vintage and unique one-of-a-kind fashion,” Haines says. She believes that vintage goods demonstrate the passage of time and the timelessness of well-crafted clothing. Rohr explains that older pieces, even those from before the fast-fashion era, are designed to endure. “You can be confident that you’re purchasing a quality piece,” she assures.
Shopping pre-owned also typically means supporting smaller, independent businesses. “By buying secondhand, we’re keeping more of our money in the community and supporting those who work to rescue quality clothing from the waste stream,” Rohr notes. Whether you’re preserving family heirlooms or purchasing from a reseller or charity shop, wear or display your pieces with confidence.
