Thrift Store Findings

[Myst]

Hiya, girls!

Okay... so I know some of you love to shop thrift... and I am finding out that I myself am loving it! Thats' the way to go for sure! :thumbsup:

The other day, I couldn't believe my luck... I actually found a pair of shoes that fit! My feet are large even for a man, so I thought that shoes that fit would be next-to-impossible to find... but I did. Yeah! They are nothing special just a plain black, slip on, faux-leather shoe with a half-inch sole... but they fit!

I can't believe how just a simple pair of shoes can add so much to an outfit! I'd better be careful though! I can see myself beginning to become addicted to shoes! :p

The best part about the experience was that when I went to pay for them, the counterlady did not even look suspicious or surprised. She just smiled and gave me the total. I paid for the shoes, she bagged them and said to have a nice day... she didn't even seem to care that I spent most of my time browsing the women's section. Hmmm... Next time I'm there, I'm going to pick up this beatiful electric-blue bra that I spotted. But only if its still there... and only if I've got the courage to do so, of course! :heehee:

How about you other ladies... find anything super-awesome at the thrift shops?

[gennee]

I have purchased much of my wardrobe at thrift shops. The most expensive thing I bought was a skirt for 5 dollars. I love thrift shops.

Gennee

[Erica007]

I am only into underware or lingerie, but I have got some great buys at this type of store.

[melissacd]

I love thrift shops, there are so many wonderful bargains to be found and if you make a mistake it is less costly than buying new. You have to look a bit harder to find your size and to find things that are still in good shape, however, it suprises me how many things are in good shape and still in style. We have to be thankful to women who a) take good care of their things b) give them to these organizations and c) make it possible for us to build wonderful wardrobes at a fraction of the cost that it would normally be. This is good as we have to maintain two different wardrobes.

I never understood the whole shoe thing until I started buying some that fit and wow suddenly I was addicted. I love finding new and interesting shoes.

At one thrift shop that I frequent one of the sales clerks has gotten to know me well and though I have never said I am a CD I know that she knows. She compliments me on my choices and seems very interested to see what I have picked out. Yesterday when I took the purchases to the counter she says to me - Now what wonderful things have you found today? - I was tickled that she so gets into this that I am planning to one day take along some photos and ask her if she wants to see what I look like dressed up. I would love to see if she is willing to help me more in terms of finding things that are in good shape, suit me well, fit me well and make sure she is good with me trying things on at the store. I feel if I can gain the good support of people like this that it will make the whole process easier and better.

I was in a discount store the other day looking at new items and found a couple of really cute tops. While I was looking through the racks a sales girl there came right up next to me and approvingly said, you are getting ready for fall and I said you betcha I am, she smiled and carried on.

I am finding more and more situations where clerks are acknowledging these are things for me and appear to be supportive, interested and totally okay with it. I never hear any laughing or snickering in the back. I am sensing that when I am confident and open about things being for me that I get a great and positive response, especially when I am buying things that they approve of. I have had a number of comments at various stores approving my selections and that is a great confidence boost to me in terms of developing a style of my own.

If I get more and more of these positive responses I may reach a level where I am totally comfortable talking with them about my dressing and move to the next stage where I always try things on at the store and perhaps ask their opinion as well....who knows.

I never would have dreamed two years ago that I would have reached the point where I am at, which is still very novice, but I know that if I keep at this I will only get better and better at it.

I was one of those girls who looked at what others had accomplished and thought I will never reach that level. Well my tune has changed and I know that I will achieve that same thing too. It takes lots of small successes but if we are determined we can al achieve this and with each of us out there promoting our lifestyle it gets easier for the next ones stepping out of the closet.

Try it, you will like it :)

Huggs
Melissa Paige

(Sorry to get so long winded in this response)

[kimmiegal]

I have found many items at thrift shops over the years.In the beginning it was great because I did not have the courage to try anything on so if it was too tight, oh well, it was only $2-$7. Now I bring everything to the dressing rooms along with a couple of mens items (in case I run into anyone I know) and have a great time trying everything on. My best find to date was a real black leather mini skirt, soft and lined, new prob $150-$200 or more for $7.

[darley dee]

Hiya, girls!

Okay... so I know some of you love to shop thrift... and I am finding out that I myself am loving it! Thats' the way to go for sure! :thumbsup:

The other day, I couldn't believe my luck... I actually found a pair of shoes that fit! My feet are large even for a man, so I thought that shoes that fit would be next-to-impossible to find... but I did. Yeah! They are nothing special just a plain black, slip on, faux-leather shoe with a half-inch sole... but they fit!

I can't believe how just a simple pair of shoes can add so much to an outfit! I'd better be careful though! I can see myself beginning to become addicted to shoes! :p

The best part about the experience was that when I went to pay for them, the counterlady did not even look suspicious or surprised. She just smiled and gave me the total. I paid for the shoes, she bagged them and said to have a nice day... she didn't even seem to care that I spent most of my time browsing the women's section. Hmmm... Next time I'm there, I'm going to pick up this beatiful electric-blue bra that I spotted. But only if its still there... and only if I've got the courage to do so, of course! :heehee:

How about you other ladies... find anything super-awesome at the thrift shops?

I love the trift stores too! I've purchased many dresses, suits ,skirts etc.Some of the stores I visit have designer racks top of the line stuff ,Talbots etc. I have yet to out in public but when I do My $20.00 black coach purse is going with me!
Luv, Darley Dee

[Myst]

Yeah, the best thing about the thrift shops are the prices!

I also like the fact that many of the itmes have already been worn and are already broken in and extra-comfy! I don't mind buying new, but because my dressing is so limited, it takes a long, long time before my clothes can get that worn-in feeling.

[Calliope]

Another cool aspect of thrifting is all the 'name brands' are under one roof.

[Charleen]

Love thrift stores! Clothes, books, chatzkis, all at great prices, who could ask for more? Love and xxxx, Lily

[JenniferMint]

The best part about the experience was that when I went to pay for them, the counterlady did not even look suspicious or surprised. She just smiled and gave me the total. I paid for the shoes, she bagged them and said to have a nice day... she didn't even seem to care that I spent most of my time browsing the women's section.

When I went to Payless Shoe Source to buy my shoes, I wonder if the SA thought something was up. She knew I was buying women's sneakers. She commented to me that she had a pair of those and that they were very comfortable. But as she was ringing up my purchase she asked me for photo ID (I was in drab, paying by credit card), but I didn't have it on me, so she asked me to sign my signature more neatly to match the signature on the back of my credit card.

I wonder if she thought I was trying to credit card fraud those shoes!

[Emeralddragon]

Just the other day i was at a thrift store / charity shop whatever ya wanna call it. I got myself a really nice pink top and these sexy purple leather trousers. No shoes to go with them cos I cant find anything in my size anywhere here and I gotta pay rent before spending money online. I want some nice pink shoes to go with it all.

[Sweet Marie]

There are no mens or womens dressing rooms...just dressing rooms. I pick out all the fem stuff I want to try on; throw a men's shirt over them and off I go. It's lots of fun to try things on before getting them home. And, I'm only two blocks away from a very nice thrift store.

[Staci]

I also buy from thrift shops. Got some nice jeans for $2. Got a very nice bridal petticoat for $10. I think that is the most I have ever spent on something at a thrift shop. Got a really nice light blue top once for about $2. You can't beat it.

[Kandi]

My wife got me started at thrift shops and we have found some great treasures. Only thing I hate is a lot of the time the clothes are not arranged by size and you have to look at each tag to see what size it is. Not a bad deal for the price though.

[Myst]

Just the other day i was at a thrift store / charity shop whatever ya wanna call it. I got myself a really nice pink top and these sexy purple leather trousers. No shoes to go with them cos I cant find anything in my size anywhere here and I gotta pay rent before spending money online. I want some nice pink shoes to go with it all.

Keep looking... you never know! :p

The thrift shops always have new things arriving in everyday!

[GypsyKaren]

Oh geez, I get all of my clothes at thrift stores. Last week I bought a 100% cashmere winter coat for $4.50 and a wool poncho (cute!) for $3.00, you just can't beat it!

Karen

[KrazyKat]

OOOOOO, Yes, and thank you Karen for buying me my first faux Sable coat, for $4.50, fabric made in France.
Almost can't wait for cold weather!!

[rachel_rachel]

I bought a wedding dress from the salvos, got matching shoes too...
When i went to pay the guy there asked me is it for you? I replied, yeah it is......

If he only knew.

[randi_789]

Okay, this may sound like a dumb question, and it probably is, BUT... what exactly is a thrift shop? And where would I find one? I reside in central NJ so if, after defining it you could point me in the direction I would be ecstatic. Thanks bunches.

[Emeralddragon]

Keep looking... you never know! :p

The thrift shops always have new things arriving in everyday!

Yeah the biggest womens size Ive found in shops in Ireland is a size 8 UK. I take a size 12.Its looks like Im comparing kids shoes to my feet when i look at what they have. The bigfooted women are keeping their feet well hidden.

[Karren H]

ever again!!


But I'm happy you found something! I find that it takes way too much time! And yeah you can find some nice things once in a while but I'd rather hit a department store during one of their many clearences and buy something new and stylish and deeply discounted!! And I don't have any problems with sales associates....after all its all about the money!! Had more than one compliment me on my purchases!!


And even though Tekla says that there is something about clothing that was actually worn by a woman (or another crossdresser?? Ewwww. Hehehe) I'm still not convinced its worth my time and efort...


But that's just my opinion...and if your happy shopping there....that's all that counts, isn't it? :)

Damn....all this chat about shopping has got me excited....race you to Kohl's for their big sale!!! Hehehe


Love Karren

[Karren H]

Okay, this may sound like a dumb question, and it probably is, BUT... what exactly is a thrift shop? And where would I find one? I reside in central NJ so if, after defining it you could point me in the direction I would be ecstatic. Thanks bunches.

www.superpage.com and search for "thrift stores" in your area... Typoical ones are Goodwill, Salvation Army plus resale and consignment shops are simular..

Love Karren

[Kate Simmons]

Gotta watch those clearance sales Karr, especially the ones with the "rock bottom" prices. I've seen GG's literally fighting over that stuff. The place usually looks like a combat zone and some of those gals are viscious mothe....er ladies. I learned not to ever come between two women that want the same bra for $2.00. Not a pretty sight at all. Ericka Kay

[angelfire]

Okay, this may sound like a dumb question, and it probably is, BUT... what exactly is a thrift shop? And where would I find one? I reside in central NJ so if, after defining it you could point me in the direction I would be ecstatic. Thanks bunches.

A thrift shop is basically a used clothing store. Most of the time the clothing is donated, and the store donates a certain % of the money to a charity or something, but not always. In my area the only ones I know of are a few Salvation Armys, A couple Value Village, and a Phase 2.

I know salvation army does alot for the community. Value Village donates sometimes to charity, and I have no idea about phase 2. 90% of my wardrobe (as small as it is) was bought from the Salvation Army. Their selection wasn't the greatest, but I managed to find a few things. I mainly shop there because I am watching my money, and need to spend most of it on other things, so if I can buy new femme clothes for a few bucks, its not such a big deal.

[veronicaM]

some of my best finds, have been bargain day at the thrift store.
what a selection.
veronicaM

[julie w]

yes thrift ships are fun if you are looking for full slips etc, but there clothes are
picked over so much its hard to find some thing up to date .but some times
you can get lucky .

[Myst]

yes thrift ships are fun if you are looking for full slips etc, but there clothes are
picked over so much its hard to find some thing up to date .but some times
you can get lucky .

I bought my first full slip at the thrift... I love it so much! I think that is what got me hooked on shopping thrift.

As for outerwear, I agree, it takes a lot of time, most of the time, the clothes are dated... in this case, I like Karren's advice and hit the clearance section. I've been looking through many of them lately what with all the stores trying to make room for their fall fashions!

[Rachel Morley]

Now admitidly you don't always find what you want, and it's a bit hit and miss...but in my personal opinion thrift stores are the bomb!

Marla and I regularly go on "hunting trips" to Goodwill. It's so cheap that if you only wear it once to a Tri-Ess social you've still got your money's worth. I often find really cute clothes...sometimes even designer brands....all in good condition. If you go to the stores that are on the edge of the more afluent areas of town you can make a killing. Plus...wearing cute clothes that used to be worn by real GGs somehow makes them more femininzing to me. :D

Crossdressing can be VERY expensive, and I believe this is a way to get more clothes choices without blowing your salary every month.

[Debbie GG]

Just as not all CDs like the thrift experience, I'm sure not all GGs do either. However, my GG friends at work and I discuss the fact that we prefer to shop second hand. New clothes (if they are quality) cost so much. I also like in a college town and a lot of the stores only carry stuff for teens and 20-somethings. Having past the half-century mark, I really don't want a mini-skirt, faded jeans, etc. A nice tailored pair of slacks and button down blouse or a "classic" suit or dress are much more my style. It is a drag that they don't keep the clothes sorted better - and sometimes not even marked very well as to size. As others have said, if you pick up something that doesn't fit, at least you only spent a couple of bucks on it. Also, if you spill something, rip your clothes on a nail, rough surface, etc. you didn't have a fortune in it. So, I vote for the thrift stores, second hand stores and garage sales!

:hugs:
Debbie GG

[wendy]

I love shopping at thrift stores, but it also depends on the thrift store too. Some of the smaller ones I've gone to the selection is rather limited but the larger ones, IMO, are worth the time and effort to browse thru as you never know what you'll find.

I recently purchased a very nice white blouse (it feels like silk but it is polyester) and a nice black skirt (albeit a little on the large side) for $11.

I plan on going back and see if I can find another black skirt (with a lining this time) and a black dress pants.

I've also purchased some nice lingerie from thrift stores too, one of them made by undercover wear (?), it is a very long, beautiful black slip.:D

[Missy Anne]

We go to thrift stores to look for styles that are no longer available in the regular stores. We frequently find nothing, but sometimes someone with good elegant taste cleans out their closet and then it's like Christmas time!

Ane even if we don't find anything on a particular visit, it's still the "thrill of the chase" !!

Missy Anne

[mskilmer]

Thrift shops are the BEST! I find I can very easily shop there en femme. And of course you never know what you'll find.

But there's still something a little more thrilling about shopping at a womens' clothing store en femme ... you know?

[Paula G]

If it wasn't for the Salvation Army and Goodwill, I wouldn't have ANY clothes! I get most of my clothes from thrift stores, including what I'm wearing on both the avatar and my profile picture. Same thing for Payless on-line for 90% of my shoes.

It really is fun to go shopping at thrift stores. It is like a treasure hunt in that you'll never know what you'll find that you couldn't live without.

[angelfire]

A thrift store near my place is having a 50% off EVERYTHING sale on tuesday. I'm pretty excited, I'm gunna have to go buy some stuff, but I got class 'till 6pm, so I'll have to go after. Hopefully there is still stuff left by then.

[Alice460]

Another great thing about thrift stores is the vintage clothes that you can buy. The condition is always great.

[L.E.J.]

I love thrift store shopping. I have found some great purses there.

[Reginainva]

I was just shopping today. I found 2 really great sweaters for this fall a pink and white. Got both for less than $10.

He He The sales girls all knew they were for me. She started asking chatting a little and taking her time. I know she was doing it on purpose. Nothing too humiliating though. She was just letting me know I was a sissy. lol

:happy:

[alison]

I love thrift stores! I'm usually too scared to try things on, and even though I've gotten pretty good at guessing my size, it's easy to come home with a few things that don't fit. But since everything is so cheap it doesn't matter. (Nothing like coming home with a full bag of cute skirts and blouses that fit like a dream though!)

[Angie G]

Yes thrift shops are great got some good things at them :hugs:
Angie G.

[Myst]

It really is fun to go shopping at thrift stores. It is like a treasure hunt in that you'll never know what you'll find that you couldn't live without.

So true!

I'm planning another trip soon so I hope there will be some things that I love!

:happy:

[sandra-leigh]

A thrift store near my place is having a 50% off EVERYTHING sale on tuesday.

Sounds like Value Village :)

My VV haul from last night was: a stretchy long short-sleeved black dress (arms could be slightly larger diameter but it's acceptable); a coordinated midi-skirt and long shirt (almost jacket-ish) in a white acetate material -- an outfit I imagine might be worn to work by a stylish professional; a very loose (size 4X) light blue peasant-type blouse, low cut and with a keyhole -- I've been trying to find something sufficiently low cut to show off what little taped cleavage I can muster myself.

[angelfire]

Yup, it is value village.

I am still thinking about if I have the nerve to go for the sale or not. Its likely going to be really busy, and I do have a long day of class that day, so it will likely be a last minute decision on my part.

[Karren H]

I actually went to 3 thrift stores this weekend, believe it or not.. With the wife, son and his friend. They were looking for costumes for an upcomeing scenerio paintball game where its Comic Book Charaters vs Anime in World Domination xxx or something like that.. A bunch of crazy kids in costume shooting each other. Lol.


But I went along for the ride and did see some things I'd like to try on!! And I might go back. Funny though, was standing next to a rack of prom gowns, just looking, and the wife strolls over and takes my hand and escorts me back to the mens side. Hehehe. Figures that I'd be tempted to try one on right then and there? Lol


Love Karren

[angelfire]

They were looking for costumes for an upcomeing scenerio paintball game where its Comic Book Charaters vs Anime in World Domination xxx or something like that.

Thats cool, but I prefer regular domination :tongueout

[LadyLiz GG]

The name brands and quality are there if you look hard and go often.

[cindyxdresser]

I love to go shopping at thrift stores.There so many great deals there and most stores are crossdresser friendly .I love to be looking at skirts have someone notice what i am shopping for.I can tell by the look on womens faces that they realise what i am there for ,but havent ever had one walk up and say a thing

[Barb Valentine]

I love going shopping at thrift stores
(especially on company time)
You never know what you might find

[happyroman]

Have any of you ladies tryed free cycling? We have it in our area and people offer clothes and items they no longer want. It is a good way to pick up clothes.
Carol Jones

[Joy Carter]

I guess it's because I was raised in a single parent household and we were poor to say the least. I wore those second hand clothes for years untill I went to work and ever since I buy new. Besides I can't see ever finding enxtended or tall sized clothes there. Not to say I blow alot on clothes because I like Karren do look for a sale.

[Snookums]

Where I live we don't have Goodwill industries stores,I miss Goodwill,we have just one Salvation army store,the remainder of the thrift stores are owned by the Mormon church,Deseret industries.you can't find sexy clothes,or shoes in these stores,they believe in modest dressing.The mormon thrift stores are also expensive,5 bucks isn't much to pay for shoes,but when they are someones throw aways,5 bucks is a lot.

[Kristen Kelly]

Okay, this may sound like a dumb question, and it probably is, BUT... what exactly is a thrift shop? And where would I find one? I reside in central NJ so if, after defining it you could point me in the direction I would be ecstatic. Thanks bunches.

I hate to tell you for you might get all MY treasures but here goes. Very good 1 n Goodwill on RT 18S in East Brunswisk, have fought with my guys over the skirt rack there :happy: ,A few in Red Bank and Rahway. just Google thrift stores for a complete list in NJ

[angelfire]

I was gunna go to the salvation army after work today, but it closed at 6pm, and I was off work then too. Maybe tomorrow then, or next thursday.

[Billie Jean]

I like shopping at Good Will. I have found lots of shoes that fit as well as some really cute outfits. Never pay more than $4.95 for any thing. I do however use Walmart for undergarments and hose, I feel that wearing someone elses is taboo. Billie Jean

[Myst]

i have found some great slips, skirts and nighties at thrift shops

Thrifts always seem to have so many of these types of things to choose from! And so inexpensive!

[Nigella]

I have always begrudged paying top price for clothing, even when I wore male clothing.

Whilst there are good finds to be had in "second hand" clothing, I usually wait until the retailers, either in the high street or catalogues, have their sale. What makes this even better, is that you get the almost latest fashions at a much reduced price.

[Larissa]

I've been working up my courage to go into a David's Bridal store. Imagine my joy, when I found a David's gown in my size at my favorite thrift store! :D

[angelfire]

I saw 2 wedding dresses at the salvation army. Unfortunately, they were around 80$ each, so I didn't even check the size. Way outside of my budget. Although Value Village had prom dresses more reasonably priced...

[Ranee Daze]

Today, in at The Sally Ann (Salvation Army Thrift Store Canada), as I found this great pvc miniskirt a little brown six-year old boy came bounding down the aisle with.......a yellow, frilly girls' party dress. He was begging and begging his dad to buy it for him, to let him into the changing room (no pun intended), pressing it against his chest etc. pretenting to dance in it, and at one point taking it off of the hangar and donning it halfway over his street clothes, his dad stopping things right there and scolding hime, but he wouldn't stop and threw up a tantrum!
Oh the look in that man's face! He looked so ashamed and at the same time concerned about his son. Imagine a genuinely sexually disphoric six year old in public. Your son! For all to see. What would you do? Nip it in the bud? Off to the priest, psychologist? If you were that boy however many years ago, in hindsight, what would you have your father do?
Buy the dress? Yea or nay ladies???? Hmmmmm?

[Karen Johnson]

I have found some pretty cool things at thrift stores and yard sales. One of my favorite it a pair of high heels that actually fit (12W). My wife usually goes with me, which makes it a lot easier. My hat is off to those with the tits to shop for themselves.

[angelfire]

Today, in at The Sally Ann (Salvation Army Thrift Store Canada), as I found this great pvc miniskirt a little brown six-year old boy came bounding down the aisle with.......a yellow, frilly girls' party dress. He was begging and begging his dad to buy it for him, to let him into the changing room (no pun intended), pressing it against his chest etc. pretenting to dance in it, and at one point taking it off of the hangar and donning it halfway over his street clothes, his dad stopping things right there and scolding hime, but he wouldn't stop and threw up a tantrum!
Oh the look in that man's face! He looked so ashamed and at the same time concerned about his son. Imagine a genuinely sexually disphoric six year old in public. Your son! For all to see. What would you do? Nip it in the bud? Off to the priest, psychologist? If you were that boy however many years ago, in hindsight, what would you have your father do?
Buy the dress? Yea or nay ladies???? Hmmmmm?

Interesting. I never did that as a kid, but my parents for sure would have said no, and likely told me to never do it again. Happened when I was caught playing dress-up with a female friend when I was a little older than that.

[Myst]

I saw 2 wedding dresses at the salvation army. Unfortunately, they were around 80$ each, so I didn't even check the size. Way outside of my budget. Although Value Village had prom dresses more reasonably priced...


Hmmm... A prom dress! I think I may have to go visit Value Village sometime!

:happy:

[Myst]

Today, in at The Sally Ann (Salvation Army Thrift Store Canada), as I found this great pvc miniskirt a little brown six-year old boy came bounding down the aisle with.......a yellow, frilly girls' party dress. He was begging and begging his dad to buy it for him, to let him into the changing room (no pun intended), pressing it against his chest etc. pretenting to dance in it, and at one point taking it off of the hangar and donning it halfway over his street clothes, his dad stopping things right there and scolding hime, but he wouldn't stop and threw up a tantrum!
Oh the look in that man's face! He looked so ashamed and at the same time concerned about his son. Imagine a genuinely sexually disphoric six year old in public. Your son! For all to see. What would you do? Nip it in the bud? Off to the priest, psychologist? If you were that boy however many years ago, in hindsight, what would you have your father do?
Buy the dress? Yea or nay ladies???? Hmmmmm?


No. I would be accepting of whatever choices my son would make later on in life, but not at that age.

[L.E.J.]

I love shopping at Goodwill but mainly for purses. I always seem to be able to sniff out a nice one. I bought a cool one last night, a dark blue medium sized Four Seasons zip top bag and it was in great condition and under two dollars. :D

[NatashaWI]

I shop at Goodwill and church thrift shops - found a great skirt there last year and a lovely coat - I'm a 12W so for me the answer is Payless or eBay for shoes - I won't wear anything but 3+ heels so I don't expect I'll find my size at a thrift shop

[katie_m68]

omg i found a complete outfit in a thrift store,nice frilly black mini,cute lil top that fit just gr8 even with my 36b bra and ballons(LOL),found a gr8 pair of black t-backs that were practically brand new for 8 bucks,whole outfit cost just under 16 bucks hows that,

[nishababe]

I wondered what was meant when I kept hearing about ''Thrift Shops'' in previous threads and now realise that you are all talking about shops that in UK are known as ''Charity Shops'' !!

I am learning all the time what your various words mean ,another was ''S-O''
we call it partner etc !!

Love Nishababe xx

[Myst]

omg i found a complete outfit in a thrift store,nice frilly black mini,cute lil top that fit just gr8 even with my 36b bra and ballons(LOL),found a gr8 pair of black t-backs that were practically brand new for 8 bucks,whole outfit cost just under 16 bucks hows that,


That's great!!! Very nice!!!