articles

Shopping for fall clothes? Here are some budget-friendly ideas! 🍂

The ultimate guide to thrift shopping in Hickory and the surrounding areas!

By Shela Yount, Hickory Macaroni KID Editor August 18, 2024

As we inch closer and closer to the -BER months, and the crisp autumn air starts rolling in, it’s time to start thinking about shopping for fall and winter! 

But before you rush to the mall, or add to that online shopping cart, why not take a stroll through some of our local, best-kept shopping secrets! 🥰

I don’t know about you, but I love a good thrifting find! 

On a whim, we stopped in one of the local Goodwill Outlets a couple of months ago and walked out with 11 trendy sweatshirts and hoodies for less than $10. We didn't know thatGoodwill Outlets charge by the weight! 😱

If you’re willing to spend time looking, you will always find hidden gems at thrift stores and consignment shops - all while saving a huge buck! 

Whether you’re a thrifting pro or just curious about finding budget-friendly options for you and your family’s fall wardrobe, I’ve got you covered! 

I’ve listed our area’s best thrifting and consignment store options in one place for you below! So grab your pumpkin spice latte, and let’s dive into the best places to shop smart this fall! 🥳





A few tips for thrifting:


  1. Keep an open mind (and time!) 

    Thrifting is all about the thrill of the hunt! You might not find exactly what you’re looking for right away, and that’s part of the fun!

    Set aside some time to really browse and explore. You never know when you’ll stumble upon that perfect cozy sweater, rain jacket, or sweatshirt! Not to mention all of the gems you’ll add to your shopping cart that you didn’t know you needed! 😉



  2. Give the garment a once (maybe twice) over!

    Second-hand clothing is hit or miss. But I’ve found some really great, almost new (and sometimes brand new) pieces when shopping! You just need to check each piece to make sure they’re in good condition.

    Look for sturdy seams, check to make sure the zippers work, missing buttons, etc. But think about your time and skills as well! Sometimes a little DIY can bring a worn piece back to life! 🥰



  3. Wash before you wear. 

    This might go without saying – But you’ll probably never know the story behind the clothes you find while thrifting. So always wash your clothes before wearing them. I choose to purchase without trying on so that I can wash them first. Some stores will allow exchanges! Make the choice that works best for you 😊

    And washing your hands after digging through bins and racks of clothing doesn’t hurt either 🤓

Happy thrifting! 


THRIFT SHOPPING NEAR HICKORY, NC


Plum Pretty Consignment

GiGi’s Emporium

Jitterbugs Inc.

ReSource Warehouse

Once Upon a Child

The Rose TLC

Jelly Beans Consignment

Hospice Resale Shop

Lollipop Kids Consignment

Piece by Peace


THRIFT SHOPPING NEAR MORGANTON, NC

PreLoved

Bloom Again Consignment Boutique

Jazzy’s Boutique on a Budget

My Little Baby Boutique

Mud Brothers VTG

Foothills Thrift Store


THRIFT SHOPPING NEAR LENOIR, NC

Redeemer’s Lighthouse

The Clothesline

Yokefellow Thrift Shop

Ann’s Thrift Store

Sheila’s Bearly Used Market



Did I miss listing your favorite thrift shop? Send me an email so that I can add it! 

shelay@macaronikid.com 



Let them know you heard about them from Hickory Macaroni KID! 🎉