For many buying clothing second hand can be a challenge. While the price is much lower than what new clothing costs, it can be hard to dig through racks of used clothes and try to find something that is worth buying. Many people end up with a pile of clothes that cost practically nothing but cannot be worn outside the house. If you need to spend less on clothes but do not want to be arrested by the fashion police here are some simple rules to follow.

Look for timeless pieces rather than fads. Unless you are the brave type who enjoys pulling off unusual styles most of what you find will not be worth buying. You will often find in thrift stores and second hand shops clothing that has sat in some one's closet for a few decades. No matter how interesting the brown with orange flowered shirt is, if you will not wear it out then let it go. Instead opt for simpler fashions in plain colors or patterns. A plain black shirt and a neutral colored shirt will not go out of style. Small, soft patterns that do not overpower the outfit will look nice season after season. If you stick to a few simpler pieces you can always jazz them up at home with jewelry and accessories of your own.

Check the condition of the clothing. A pair of jeans for a quarter is no bargain if they fall apart the first time you wear them. Look for holes, rips, loose threads, and thin patches. Frugality should save you money, but if you are constantly buying new items to replace worn out ones you will not be saving much. Make sure your purchases count by buying clothing that is still in fairly good condition and that will last you a while.

Try it on and make sure it will fit. If you find the best jeans in near perfect condition but three sizes too small there really is no point in buying them. Some people buy clothing they love without making sure it fits first, leaving them with a closet half full of clothes they cannot wear. Even if you are changing your weight and plan to be able to wear them later that is still a purchase that you cannot use now. Always make sure the clothes are in your size, and if possible try them on first to make sure they fit well. Clothing sizes can vary depending on the brand so an 8 in one brand may fit more like a 6 in another. Make sure that the clothes fit right and that they hang well on your frame. The better your clothes fit you the better they look, no matter how much they cost.

As prices continue to go up more and more people are looking to live a little more frugally. But frugal living does not have to mean looking like a bum. If you follow these simple tips you can shop for used clothing and still look like a million dollars.