Goodwill Shopping: What I Got for Under $25!

I've mentioned several times that I've been shopping at Goodwill using a $20 gift certificate that I received for participating in our local Goodwill stores' March Madness event. I thought it would be fun to show all the items I purchased, how much they cost at Goodwill, and compare it to the retail cost!

First of all, it took me around 2 months to spend the $20. I have become much more selective about what I buy whether it is new or thrifted, so lots of times, I leave the store with nothing. If you are new to shopping Goodwill or other thrift stores, don't get discouraged! It does take patience to find great items and it really helps if you can stop in often. I probably check the stock at one of our local Goodwill stores 3-4 times a month.

Here are my recent finds!

Thrifted Goodwill Finds Under $25 by gracenote30 featuring banana republic

Red and Cream Banana Republic Skirt: $5.63 (retail $95)
212 Collection Snakeskin Bow Blouse: $2.44 (retail approx. $30)
AGB Floral Blouse: $2.44 (retail approx. $30)
Merona Dress: $5.63 (retail approx. $20)
Chicos Print Tank: $2.44 (retail approx. $50)
Michael Kors Dark Jeans: $5.63 (retail approx. $65)

Total: $24.21
Approx. Retail Total: $290

Now granted, the retail prices do not include sale prices - and I always buy things on sale! However, the Goodwill prices represent over a 90% savings on retail prices, which is pretty awesome in my book.

A few tips from my thrifting experience:

• You'll notice all the tops I purchased were only $2.44. At our stores, the sleeveless tops are priced at $2.29 (plus tax) whereas the short and long-sleeved shirts are $4.29. I find that these sleeveless tops are great on their own in the summer and work perfectly with sweaters, cardigans, and blazers during the other 3 seasons. They are extremely versatile and a great bargain.
• I often find cute skirts and dresses in wonderful condition from great brands. Don't overlook thrift stores for dressier clothes!
• Almost all of the jeans in my wardrobe right now are thrifted. There are definitely some dated styles on the racks at Goodwill, but there are also great brands and styles, too. I still like boot cut and trouser cut jeans sometimes and those are more readily available than skinnies, but I have found skinny and straight leg jeans as well. Brands that I have purchased include Gap, DKNY, and Michael Kors.

Have you found anything awesome lately while thrifting? What is your favorite secondhand find?

I'm linking up!