March 6, 2024 | Sign Up | Support Us

TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Wichita!

We received some positive feedback after our last guest post deep dive, so we're back with another expert Wichitan!

p.s. Han Solo is back in town, but please keep your distance so he keeps coming back.

In today's Wichita Life Update

Guide to Second-Hand Shopping
Vintage Shops
Thrift Shops

Let's get to it!

- Landon Huslig

TOGETHER WITH THE CITY OF WICHITA

Sick of potholes?

You may think the city doesn't do anything about our streets, but did you know they fix the majority of reported potholes in less than 24 hours?

They patch 70,000 potholes annually!

Next time you see one, give it a try. See how fast they get out there.

Learn More Here

Thrifting in Wichita

Did you know that 75% of all US consumers have either shopped or are willing to shop for second-hand apparel?

We decided to take a page out of Macklemore's playbook and take a look at what thrift shopping looks like in Wichita. Since I am not an expert at thrifting, we're turning to fellow reader and shopping expert, Star White.

A Guide to Second-Hand Shopping and Donating in Wichita

Hi there! My name is Star White of Well Fibre.

I’m a Wichita native, wife, and mom of 3. As a seasoned thrifter, seamstress, and wardrobe stylist, my passion is helping other people feel great in what they wear, where they buy it from, and what they do with it when they're done. Oftentimes we can accomplish this by shopping and donating second-hand and keeping sustainability in mind.

When thinking sustainably, using what you have or borrowing are great first options. But shopping second-hand is next! So let’s look at the local (non-chain) options our fine city offers:

Vintage Shops

(These shops generally sell clothing over 20 years old or clothing that has a ‘retro’ vibe):

Consignment, Resale, Thrift Shops

(These shops either take donations, will pay a lump sum for garments brought in, or they pay out once the garments sells):

The Violet Closet
The Second Story
The Working Woman’s Shop
Second Blessing Thrift Store (WITS)
Fit For a Queen (Plus Size Resale)
Assistance League
Oaklawn Thrift Store
DEEGEE’s Thrift Store
Fun Finds
Cali Thrift Store
Fashion Freak

You can both shop and/or donate to any of the shops listed above, but if you are looking to donate clothing specifically to children or families in need there are a few great local organizations. Please call them ahead of dropping off donations to ensure they are accepting items.

Donation-only:

Women’s clothing:

Kid’s/Teen clothing:

My top tips when shopping second-hand:

Set aside time. If you are rushed when thrifting, you may end up with garments you don’t really need or like or you may end up missing out on great garments because you were in a rush. Shopping second hand takes more time than traditional shopping.
Watch out for flaws. Buying used garments means there might be stains, rips, or some other imperfection (uneven hem, perhaps?). Many times small flaws can be repaired or stains removed, but give the garment a once over before purchase.
Come with a list. Envision what your wardrobe is missing and make a list. A little forethought on a post-it or in your notes app will save you precious shopping time. Wanting a pair of great vintage jeans? Put that on your list and you’ll know what section to head to first! Some people find thrifting very overwhelming and this method is so helpful.
Try things on. Particularly with vintage clothing, sizing can be much different than current day sizing. To ensure fit and comfort, it’s best to try on your thrifted treasures before buying.
It's normal to get discouraged. Some days you may find a mountain of gems, other days the hunt is less fruitful. That’s the nature of second hand-shopping. Going back frequently to your favorite shops or following them online are great ways to see when they drop new merchandise.

Wichita has a great array of second-hand options when it comes to shopping for clothes. Consider the list above the next time you head out to shop or donate.

If you know of a locally owned shop not listed, please let me know! You can find me and my wardrobe styling services at the following places:

With love,
Star

I'll likely turn this into a blog on our website so it is much easier to share, but please let us know what we missed! Just reply to this email.

The only things I would add...

Shop N Grub is a monthly outdoor market with 40+ vendors and usually a bunch of incredible thrift vendors. The season opener is Sunday, April 21st at Exploration Place Festival Plaza
YBG Studio is a custom clothing brand that specializes in cut and sew pieces from sustainable clothing.