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  • Writer's pictureHeather Rafool

7 Ways to Find a Cheap Wardrobe

When updating your wardrobe, you can spend little money while buying cool stuff. Here are 7 ways to find cheap t-shirts.


Keyword(s): cheap t-shirts #RetroShirts #CheapShirts #Barginshopper #Tshirt

Adding new pieces to your wardrobe doesn't have to be expensive.

In fact, with just a few unique items you can transform your whole look - without breaking the bank! That is the beauty of smart shopping.

Smart shopping is the art of learning where to go for the best deals, and what is just not worth spending too much money on. It is the understanding of investing in a pair of jeans that will last for years, versus stocking up on t-shirts that are $30-40 a pop (or more!).

To find the best cheap t-shirts in all kinds of styles and sizes, check out the following shopping resources.

1. Thrift Stores

There's nothing like the satisfaction of a great thrift store find.

This is something that becomes uniquely yours. It's not mass-produced or easily available for others to buy and create a similar look with. Instead, finding the ultimate new flannel or the perfect pair of jeans to DIY at home means you get a totally custom experience.

Sure, there is likely someone, somewhere that has the same or similar item.

But, the great thing about thrift stores is that not everyone is walking into one kind of store and buying pieces from a single line or brand. Every thrift store is unique, and each one's cheap t-shirts are as well.

2. Donation Drives and Garage Sales

For an even more personal shopping experience, check out donation spots and garage sales.

Donation drives are arguably as low as cheap t-shirts will go in price. If you're looking to really stock up on new tops, this may be the best place to go. But, be mindful that the selection may not be as great as a classic thrift store or other options on this list.

Garage sales are kind of cool, though, because sometimes you get the story behind the shirt. Maybe you talk to the previous owner and find out they got your new retro shirt at a concert they went to years ago, or maybe they're selling a track jacket you just have to have.

Whatever the story, don't forget to barter! That's one of the best parts of garage sale shopping.

3. Local Markets

As lucky as you can get at a garage sale, they're very hit or miss for cheap t-shirts and other kinds of apparel. For a little more consistency in your shopping that still offers a local feel, go to markets in your town.

Many big cities have pop-ups all around different boroughs. Additionally, small-town farmer's markets are becoming more open to vendors which aren't necessarily food-related to be a part of the event.

Such a setting not only gives you access to awesome cheap t-shirts, but you can usually find an unexpected treat like a new, unique decorating item for your home or some delicious homemade food.

4. Upcycling

Speaking of homemade, sometimes, the best cheap t-shirts are free! They are sitting in the back of your closet and you don't even know it.

All you need to do is set aside time for a closet clean-out and get creative with the shirts you already have. A little while and some DIY ideas and supplies later, you end up with a beautiful result.

DIY t-shirts are one of the easiest ways to turn a boring old look into something fresh, fun, and totally fashion-forward.

5. Family and Friends Closet Hauls

Already looked through your closet? Couldn't find anything that you wanted to upcycle?

Maybe, one of your friends can find use in what you don't want. Maybe, you think your dad's old t-shirts or your roommate's clothes that don't get worn anymore are really cool.

If any of these situations apply to you, get all of your close friends and family together for a DIY day. Pick a place and a time and make sure there are plenty of supplies to go around. More importantly, tell everyone to bring old t-shirts that they don't wear anymore!

Make it a point to have certain shirts left at home. There are some old t-shirts that are old for a reason, and no one will find an upcycling purpose in now. But, things like retro concert shirts and college/sports team memorabilia can be a great use.

6. Online Shopping

As cheap as the suggestions thus far may be, they can sometimes limit your options.

To get a full range of cheap t-shirts, you need to do a little more digging. Take your search to the internet and see what pops up.

You never know, there may be a thrift store that is all the rage on Instagram but located a few states away from where you live. See if they offer to ship items, or ask someone who may be visiting there to pick up a shirt for you.

Even better, find online stores that have an e-commerce platform set up and ready to go. This is your ultimate way to access all the cheap t-shirts you're looking for.

Such stores have a wide range of styles and cuts which you can easily navigate to find the t-shirts that are right for you. Online stores let you narrow everything down to size, style, and even color. This could make shopping much faster than you've ever bought clothing before.

Not to mention, online stores have the support needed to get your shirts in-hand as soon as possible. Many will also have the other things you need to complete your look - like embroidery options, custom screen printing, or cheap accessories.

7. Niche Stores

Whether you're browsing the web or driving around town, keep an eye out for niche brands. These are stores that will specialize in things like retro t-shirts, concert shirts, or radio stations and location-oriented apparel.

Either way, there is bound to be a certain niche you're interested in to complete your style. See if there's a store that focuses on just that.

Finding Cheap T-Shirts Made Easy

You can never have too many t-shirts.

These are comfortable, affordable options that go well with pretty much any outfit. T-shirts are the ultimate lazy day item, but they can also look snazzy under a blazer or dressed up with the right jeans and hairstyle.

Put simply, your t-shirt collection can be anything you want it to be. But, you have to expand your options to get the most out of it!

Click here to shop our cheap t-shirts.


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