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Spring Fashion Trends: What to Thrift this Season

A Guide to Spring Fashion Trends (& Inspo for your next Thrift Haul)

Your local Thrift Store is one of the best places to shop for all the spring fashion trends so you can look great, do good, and save money. With trends always changing, thrift stores have the wide selection you need to find exactly what you’re looking for, in every size and style.

From playful patterns to sustainable fabrics, here are some of the top spring fashion trends to keep an eye out for in 2024.

Pastel Palettes

Soft pastel hues are making a comeback this spring, bringing a sense of lightness and freshness to wardrobes everywhere. From baby blues to blush pinks and mint greens, pastel colors are versatile and can be incorporated into any outfit, whether it’s a flowy dress or a tailored suit.

Pastel blue snake print boots with spring fashion trends
Pastel pink Spring Fashion Dress hanging on rack
Pastel pink men's and women's spring fashion outfits on mannequins
Pastel yellow pumps on trend for spring fashion

Sustainable Fashion

With an increasing focus on sustainability and ethical fashion practices, eco-friendly materials and clothing brands are gaining popularity. From organic cotton tees to recycled polyester activewear, consumers are seeking out options that are kinder to the planet without compromising on style. Don’t have the time to research sustainable brands? Visit your local Thrift Store instead, where you are shopping sustainably by restyling and reusing garments rather than contributing to the production of new goods.

Yellow Wrap Around Top with Green Flowy Short Skirt 2
Beige Matt and Natt sustainable spring fashion purse

Bold Prints

Say goodbye to understated solids and hello to bold prints and patterns. Whether it’s floral motifs, geometric designs, or abstract artwork, spring fashion is all about making a statement. Mix and match different prints for a playful and eclectic look, or opt for a single statement piece to anchor your outfit.

Orange Halter Top with Floral Full Length Skirt
Mens Red Tropical Button up Shirt with bold print

Flowy Silhouettes

Embrace the breeze with flowy silhouettes and relaxed fits. Maxi dresses, wide-leg pants, and oversized blouses are perfect for capturing the easygoing spirit of spring. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon, silk, and linen not only feel great against the skin but also add movement and fluidity to your look.

Dark Green Maxi Skirt with Black Accessories
Flowy White Summer Silk Dress

Utility Chic

Utility-inspired clothing continues to be a staple in spring fashion, with its blend of functionality and style. Think cargo pants, jumpsuits, and oversized outerwear with plenty of pockets and hardware details. Neutral tones like khaki, olive green, and beige enhance the utilitarian vibe while remaining versatile and easy to wear.

Khaki Green Utility Jumpsuit matching spring fashion trends
Cargo Pants and Plaid Button up

Athleisure Everywhere

The athleisure trend shows no signs of slowing down, as more people seek comfort and versatility in their everyday attire. From yoga pants and sports bras to hoodies and sneakers, activewear-inspired pieces are being incorporated into casual and even semi-formal outfits. Look for elevated fabrics and stylish cuts that blur the lines between sportswear and streetwear.

Athleisure spring fashion trend products on display in the Thrift Store
Ladies Nike Pastel Running Shoes

Retro Revival

Nostalgia takes center stage this spring with a resurgence of retro-inspired fashion. From ’70s-inspired flare jeans and bohemian crochet tops to ’90s-style slip dresses and bucket hats, vintage vibes are everywhere. Mix vintage pieces with modern accents for a contemporary twist on classic styles.

Boho Spring Outfit with flowy top and skirt
Le Chateau Tye Dye Snakeskin Retro Womens Pants

Accessorize with Statement Pieces 

Complete your spring look with eye-catching accessories that add personality and flair. Oversized sunglasses, chunky jewelry, and bold headscarves are all trending this season. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, colors, and shapes to elevate your outfit and express your individual style.

Bracelets hanging on display in Thrift Store
Sunglasses Rack at the Thrift Store

You’re Ready to Start your Spring Fashion Trends Thrift Haul 

As we transition from the subdued tones of winter to the vibrant hues of spring, let these clothing trends inspire you to refresh your wardrobe and embrace the season with style. Whether you gravitate towards soft pastels, bold prints, or utility-chic ensembles, there’s something for everyone in this season’s fashion landscape. So, go ahead, shed those layers, and step into spring on-style and on-budget.

Looking for even more inspo?

We’ve got lots more great thriftspiration where this came from, including seasonal style ideas, different ways to wear the same item, and home decor trends. 

See more inspiration

Get thrifting for vintage clothing!

Ready to find your new-to-you favourite thing? Find your local Thrift Store and don’t forget to drop off a donation to get a coupon for 20% off your next purchase.

Find your store

Vintage Clothing Guide: Thrifting Tips

A Guide to Vintage Clothing Shopping at Your Local Thrift Store

In the fashion world, there’s a timeless allure surrounding vintage clothing. From the roaring twenties to the vibrant hues of the seventies, each era encapsulates a unique essence–and they are waiting to be rediscovered. Thrift stores stand as treasure troves, offering a portal to the past filled with these sartorial gems for all ages and sizes. Here’s a guide to navigating the aisles and finding your own piece of fashion history.

Embrace the adventure

Thrift stores can be like mazes, each corner holding a potential discovery. (Here’s proof you can thrift for any aesthetic.) The more time you put in to looking at each garment, the more pieces you’ll find. Adopt a patient mindset and allow yourself the luxury of exploring without rushing. Vintage clothing doesn’t reveal itself immediately; it requires a keen eye and a willingness to dive deep. [Check out this video from our content collaborator Vanessa on how it pays off when you take your time thrifting]

Organized clothing and shoes organized on racks in Thrift Store

Educate yourself

Get to know the distinctive styles of different decades. Understand the silhouette, fabrics, and patterns that define each era. This knowledge will serve as your compass, guiding you towards pieces that resonate with your personal style and preferences. People often skip over unique garments simply because they didn’t realize what they were seeing.

Pay attention to quality

Vintage clothing often boasts superior craftsmanship compared to its modern counterparts. Examine the fabric, stitching, and overall condition of the garment. Look for signs of wear that add character without compromising integrity.

Assortment of straw hats hanging on wall at the Thrift Store

Don’t be deterred by size tags and categories

Sizing standards have evolved over time, meaning that a vintage size may not align with current measurements. Instead, focus on fit and silhouette. Many oversized garments from past decades can be effortlessly styled for a modern look.

Moreover, don’t limit yourself to conventional sections. Explore all corners of the thrift store, including men’s and children’s departments. Oversized shirts, blazers, and sweaters from the men’s section can be styled in myriad ways, adding a touch of androgyny to your wardrobe.

Go with the flow

Sometimes, the most extraordinary finds happen by chance. Allow yourself to be drawn to unexpected pieces that speak to your soul, regardless of their era or style. You never know what you will come home with when you visit your local Thrift Store–it might just be exactly what you needed. Get inspired with this video from our collaborator Anna on styling vintage denim jeans.

Vintage clothing shopping at you local Thrift Store is a journey of exploration and self-expression. With an open mind and a discerning eye, you can uncover treasures that transcend time, adding a unique flair to your wardrobe while honoring the craftsmanship and experience of past eras.

If you’re looking for more tips, check out our top 5 thrifting tips.

Video contributed by: Camille of The Travelling Wardrobe, Salvation Army Thrift Store Collaborator

Looking for more style inspo?

We’ve got lots more great thriftspiration where this came from, including seasonal style ideas, different ways to wear the same item, and home decor trends. 

See more inspiration

Get thrifting for vintage clothing!

Ready to find your new-to-you favourite thing? Find your local Thrift Store and don’t forget to drop off a donation to get a coupon for 20% off your next purchase.

Find your store

Top 3 Affordable Pet DIYs with Thrifted Materials

3 Affordable Pet DIYs to Spoil Your Furry Friend Without Breaking the Bank

Having a pet is one of life’s greatest joys. Whether you’re a cat person, a dog person, or prefer something more exotic like a guinea pig or a bird, the companionship and love they offer are truly priceless. However, as any pet owner knows, the costs associated with keeping a pet can add up quickly. From food and vet bills to toys and accessories, being a pet parent often means budgeting for your furry friend’s needs. But fear not, because there’s a secret: your local Thrift Store. Here are our top 3 easy and affordable pet DIYs with thrifted materials to pamper your pet without breaking the bank.

1. Reusable Paw Wipes

Paw wipes are a must-have for any dog parent that goes outside with their pooch. These DIY wipes are washable and reusable, made with thrifted tea towels, and placed in an empty upcycled container. Say good-bye to expensive store-bought wipes!

Learn how

2. Nearly-Destructible Denim Dog Toy

There are so many repurposing projects out there for thrifted jeans, and so many different denim options at the Thrift Store. This nearly destructible DIY dog toy uses just two materials and is a fun and inexpensive alternative to the cost of new dog toys.

Get started
DIY dog toy made with strips of braided denim jeans from the Thrift Store
Denim strips cut to create DIY dog toy

3. Thrifted Shirt Upcycle

Dog clothing is undeniably adorable — and undeniably expensive. This easy DIY uses a thrifted shirt that transforms into a stylish sweater for your pet. This DIY can be customized to fit any size animal!

Learn how

By getting creative and taking advantage of affordable treasures at your local Thrift Store, you can spoil your furry friend without emptying your wallet. From our top 3 affordable DIY projects with thrifted materials to secondhand finds that come ready to use, there are plenty of ways to pamper your pet while sticking to a budget. And that’s not the only benefit — taking advantage of DIYs like these means that you are helping the environment by reusing and repurposing existing materials and keeping items out of landfill. Head to your local Thrift Store and start spoiling your pet today!

Looking for more Inspo?

We’ve got lots more great thriftspiration where this came from, including seasonal style ideas, different ways to wear the same item, and home decor trends. 

See more inspiration

Shift to Thrift Today!

Ready to find your new-to-you favourite thing? Find your local Thrift Store and don’t forget to drop off a donation to get a coupon for 20% off your next purchase.

Find your store

Shift to Thrift & Make Every Day Earth Day

At The Salvation Army Thrift Store, we believe in the power of small changes that make a big impact. When you choose to donate and shop with us, you’re directly contributing to the reduction of textile waste that ends up in landfills. You not only extend the lifespan of gently used items but also reduce the demand for new clothing production. This, in turn, reduces the consumption of raw materials, energy, and water required for production. When you shift to thrift you play a vital role in uplifting your local community, all while enjoying great savings. What better time to shift to thrift than Earth Day?

Did you know that to manufacture the items in the look below, it takes more than 13,500 liters of water*?

That’s enough water for 18 people to consume for one year!**

Yellow t-shirt and blue jeans

1 T-Shirt

=

2,720 Litres of Water

1 Pair of Jeans

=

10,850 Litres of Water

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF MAKING THE SHIFT TO THRIFT FOR EARTH DAY

By making secondhand your first choice, you are making a sustainable decision that directly contributes to:

Icon of globe held in palm of hand

Preserving our planet

By donating and shopping at The Salvation Army Thrift Store, you are giving pre-loved items a second chance to be reused, preventing them from ending up in landfills. Last year, we diverted over 87 million of pounds from local landfills.

Icon of dollar sign held between two hands

Saving your wallet

At your local Salvation Army Thrift Store, you can purchase the look above for as little as $12. This means you are not only helping save the planet, but also making a budget-friendly choice.

Icon of heart shape with people around the outer edge

Caring for your community

Each donation and purchase at our Thrift Stores support local Salvation Army Programs and Services. These include foodbanks, shelters, summer camps, drug rehabilitation, emergency relief services and more.

Make every day Earth Day! Join us in making a shift to thrift for a sustainable, affordable, and community-driven lifestyle!

*Source: Water Footprint Network (US, 2022)

**Based on the recommendation that an individual should drink at least 2 litres of water per day, the yearly water intake would be 730 litres/individual.

Making Every Day Earth Day

To learn more about the positive environmental and social impact of making the shift to thrift, read our Impact Report for last fiscal year.

Read now

Shift to Thrift Today!

Ready to find your new-to-you favourite thing? Find your local Thrift Store and don’t forget to drop off a donation to get a special coupon for 25% off your next purchase.

Find your store

Affordable & Sustainable Holiday Guide: Top 5 Tips

‘Tis the season to be sustainable!

Get in the spirit of Thriftmas in-style and on-budget this holiday season with this affordable & sustainable holiday guide to celebrate the season.

From gift ideas and ugly Christmas sweaters to décor and tablescapes — and everything in between — this thrifty guide will lead you to your most stress-free and feel-good holiday season ever. Plus, take advantage of everyday savings at your local Thrift Store like no tax on most items, 15% off for students with an SPC card, and 10% off for Guests over age 65 to get even more for less.

Here are our top 5 tips for a Merry Thriftmas.

1. Stock up on affordable & sustainable holiday décor

There are few places better to find holiday décor than your local Thrift Store. Holiday waste from seasonal products and packaging is a serious problem, so purchasing these items secondhand is a great way to add holiday cheer to your space without spending brand-new prices or contributing to seasonal waste.

Christmas trees, decorations and ornaments, wreaths, and general holiday décor items like these are all waiting to be discovered. Check out this epic haul(iday) vlog from our creative expert Nicole, and find more thriftspiration here.

Advent calendars are one the best parts of holiday excitement. Make your own with a thrifted muffin tin to help cut down on costs and unnecessary waste. Go ahead, you earned that treat inside!

Thrifted mailbox holiday décor
Thrifted ceramic tree holiday décor
Thrifted snowman and Santa holiday décor
Collection of thrifted wreaths
Christmas display inside Thrift Store
2. Stun with thrifted seasonal tablescapes

One of the most meaningful aspects of the holiday season is the food shared with friends and family. Make your festive feasts stand out with a gorgeous tablescape and servingware.

Great items to look for at your local Thrift Store are tablecloths, silverware sets, chargers, top plates, glassware, and ornamental decorations, including artificial flowers and branches for vase centerpieces.

3. Get affordable holiday gifts for the whole family

There’s no reason that your Christmas shopping at the Thrift Store should stop when it gets to presents. Here are some great options for gift-giving that will not only delight the receiver, but will make everyone feel good knowing they are an eco-friendly choice that helps support your community.

Party gifts and/or hostess gifts

These are plentiful in your local Thrift Store, but you may need to set aside enough time to take a good look through all the selves. Check out the glassware, the party platters, and pitchers and then use these fab finds to bake something like cookies, biscotti, or anything else that fits the container and deliver something special to your hostess.

Books

Another no-fail purchase at the Thrift Store, especially children’s books like series, pop ups, crafty, board books, and coloring books. You will find lots of great books for all ages. Just about anything is available on those shelves.

Candle holders

There are often many options for beautiful candle holders available, and most people on your shopping list would likely love a gorgeous candle scented to their preferences. 

Artwork & Picture frames

This is another great gift-giving option. Even if the art itself is not something you think your giftee would like, you can easily upcycle it into something new if the frame is right, or simply add a photo of your own for a sentimental gift. Thrifted picture frames are a great option to help save the cost of new pictures frames, which can be very expensive, and are perfect gifts for grandparents when filled with grandchildren pictures.

Featured Finds Section

This section is filled with antiques, collectibles, and other incredible items that will impress your loved ones with their uniqueness — and their impact. Like all items sold in our stores, these Buy Now fab finds help us support local Salvation Army programs and services that are needed more than ever throughout the winter season. 

Gift cards

Thinking about giving your loved ones a gift that gives back, but also want to give them something to spend on themselves? Do both with a Salvation Army Thrift Store gift card, where all purchases help support local Salvation Army programs and services AND fab finds abound.

Gift wrapping

To finish everything off, your local Thrift Store is likely filled with brand-new wrapping paper and other gift-packaging materials so that you can tie that Christmas list shopping up with a bow – literally! Check out this DIY gift card holder with thrifted materials!

4. Make the most of the season with festive fashion

Gorgeous holiday outfits

Dressing up for those holiday parties to make the celebration even more special? You can find high-end pieces in your local Thrift Store to step out in style this season without paying high-end prices. Here is some thriftspiration to get you started:

Seasonal sweaters

There is no better place to get authentic Christmas sweaters, perfect for your next work holiday event. From classic to silly, there are so many options to choose from! Check out our Christmas Sweater Guide for more styling tips.

Casual winterwear

Stay warm and look cool with layered-up casual looks. Strut through the season in comfort and style with these classic Thrift Store finds.

5. Donate what you no longer need

The holidays are often a time of clutter as we accumulate things throughout the gift-giving season. Set yourself up to start the new year fresh by gathering anything you no longer use or want and donating it to your local Thrift Store in the New Year.

Donating your gently used items is the perfect way to spread holiday cheer by helping to care for neighbours in need in your community through Salvation Army programs and services. 

Learn why donations matter
That's a wrap on our top 5 ways to make the holiday season bright!

We want to see you put the tips in this affordable & sustainable holiday guide in action! Share your thrifted finds, outfits, and DIYs with us all through the holiday season with the #IFoundThis hashtag and you could win $25 towards your next thrift haul.

Learn how

Have a very Merry Thriftmas and Happy Holidays!

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