Thrifting isn’t just about saving money. It’s an art, a lifestyle, and for Detroit creative and fashion influencer Alayna Bell (@fashionlayn), it’s also a form of self-expression. Known for her bold style and knack for finding hidden gems, Bell sat down with the Michigan Chronicle to share her top tips for making the most out of your next thrifting trip.
Sell or Donate Before You Shop
For Bell, the first step to smart thrifting begins at home. “I get rid of things by examining my personal style. If it’s been untouched for more than a year, doesn’t fit, is damaged, or just doesn’t give me a good feeling when I wear it, it goes in the donate or sell pile,” she said.
Decluttering also reveals what’s missing in her wardrobe. “Every time I free up space in my closet I get a chance to reexamine my personal style. That often leads me to unexpected thrift finds,” she added.
Have a Thrifting Game Plan
Bell admits she wasn’t always a fan of thrifting. “Before I became a serial thrifter I would avoid it because it would put me in a frenzy,” she confessed. Her solution? Strategy. She shops with a color palette in mind and takes a mental inventory of what’s already in her closet.
“I like to stick to neutral colors because you can’t go wrong. Planning ahead has helped me avoid regret buys and save money,” Bell explained.
Dress Smart for Trying On
Thrift shopping often means limited dressing room options, so Bell always dresses “thrift-ready.” Her go-to look? “Either an active bodysuit or black leggings. These pieces are form-fitting and make it easy to slip items on to see if they fit well,” she said.
She’s also learned the hard way about skipping the fitting process. “Sometimes you can’t trust your eyes. Thrift pieces in regard to sizing can be unique. I’ve had to teach myself to pause and plan ahead so I don’t waste money on things that don’t fit,” Bell said.
Location Is Everything
When it comes to thrifting, Bell believes your shopping destination can make all the difference. Her most memorable find was a Christian Dior trench coat. “That was when I became hooked to the thrill and hunt of thrifting,” she recalled.
For Detroiters on the hunt, she recommends checking estate and yard sales in historic neighborhoods like Boston-Edison or Indian Village. “You can also score at thrift stores near affluent areas in Detroit and the metro area,” she suggested.
Inspect and Know What’s Worth It
Quality matters. Bell’s first step is always checking the material tag. “I prefer cotton, silks, and linens because they last longer and are breathable,” she explained.
She also learned mindfulness from a regretful buy. “I once purchased a handbag I thought was authentic without examining it. It turned out to be a replica. That taught me to slow down and always check for lining quality, material, and serial numbers,” she shared.
Bonus: Thrifting While Black and Bold
For Bell, thrifting is also cultural reclamation. “To the Black women that are looking to embrace thrifting I would say you gotta know yourself and always choose to show up authentic. Don’t be afraid to let your creative side take over, remix eras, and reclaim styles that have been taken and called something else. Shine,” she said.
✨ Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just getting started, Bell’s tips remind us that thrifting is more than bargain hunting. It’s about creativity, sustainability, and confidence.
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