2. And ignore the wishlist
As much as you would like to be guided by what you actually need, one of the best things about thrifting is that unexpected finds are easy to come by. Salespeople at well-established vintage, consignment and thrift shops tend to know the inventory well. Chat them up and find out what their favorite recent additions to their inventories are. Ask them for their take on current trends. Try on something you wouldn't normally consider.
[Photo via @curethriftshop]