*Pictured: Top from Plato’s; Jeans (Fashion Nova) from CURV exchange*

Have you ever looked at someone’s Instagram page and wondered how they have a different look every other week? Is there a good online sale? Their best Tampa thrift store finds? Maybe it’s Maybelline?

If you’re anything like me, you might not have the money to cycle out your wardrobe regularly.

And maybe you can purchase a new wardrobe each season… if you got it, flaunt it, girl you know I want it... (forreal, send me the secrets!)

Of course, fast fashion exists. You know those mass-produced trendy clothes that fade, rip or magically disappear after the first couple of wears, i.e. Forever21, Fashion Nova, Shein, etc. Trust me, I love them. But those hauls can seriously add up. And if you know me, I just can’t justify the money for the items — or the wait.

That’s why I’m partial to a good thrift haul from thrift stores in Tampa. I get that instant gratification of finding a killer deal, while taking my clothes home automatically! It just doesn’t get any better.

But honestly, thrifting isn’t for everyone – partially because of myths like a lack of sizes, overwhelming disorganization and hygiene. Listen, even I can’t stand a disorganized store… but the best Tampa thrift stores are nothing of the sort!

And who would I be if I didn’t share my hidden gems where I find at least 80% of my clothes and shoes!

1. Plato’s Closet

*Pictured: Sweater Dress — $7 from Plato’s Closet South Tampa*

This is one of the best places to thrift in Tampa. And honestly, my TOP thrift store overall.

Now, some people don’t consider Plato’s thrifting, but I do! After all, they sell gently used items at discounted prices – which is the definition! I almost always find something cute, even if I have to check multiple locations. Speaking of locations, they have about seven locations in the greater Tampa Bay area and over 400 across North America.

However, like with most thrifting situations, I’ll never find it when I need it.

Pros:

It’s organized by size, style (jeans, tanks, shorts, etc.) and color in most sections! So, it’s much less stressful than you might think.
Size ranges from 0-28 in women and 28-40 in men’s waist

Cons:

The shoe selection is … not extensive, especially for larger sizes. I used to be able to buy basically new sneakers from the Plato’s Closet South Tampa location, but the selection has become lackluster.
Plato’s Closet has only recently become size-inclusive within the last couple of years, which isn’t the best look, but at least they are taking steps.

2. CURV Exchange

After countless mentions from my mom (Queen Lis knows), I finally visited CURV Exchange, and I love it! It is a local plus-size retail boutique with locations in places like Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater, Bradenton, etc.

CURV Exchange is the best plus size Tampa thrift store and my favorite plus size Tampa consignment store for shoes hands down. I literally have bought my last five pairs of shoes from there. In fact, there’s a pair of 8.5 strappy heels with the cute little fur (shoot me a message on Instagram, and I’ll send you a picture of them.)

Pros:

Size range from 14-36+, so it’s completely inclusive for bigger women.
Air-conditioned fitting rooms.
The BEST shoes
Great $3 sales! You get a coupon on your first visit. Plus, they have a punch card system.

Cons:

It skews a bit older, so it can be hard to find cute tops and crops. Truth be told, I could’ve been looking for crops during the “fall/winter” season, but that doesn’t really exist here.
Only organized by size and ever so slightly by tops and bottoms, but not by style or color.

3. Clothes Mentor

*Pictured: Shirt from Plato’s; Pants from Clothes Mentor*

Okay, I don’t go here often because there’s only a Palm Harbor location nearby (about 125 locations in N. America). But if you have a day, then it’s so worth it. The first time I went, I found four pairs of dress pants and a nice pair of tennis shoes and spent less than $50! The staff is also so nice and helpful and actually provides honest feedback.

Pros:

A great selection of business casual clothing
Good prices with regular sales and promotions

Cons:

Pricier than other stores mentioned, but dress pants can be expected to be a bit more.
Fewer locations

Honorable Mention:

*Pictured: Shoes from Sunshine Thrift Store*

There are some great thrift stores in Tampa that I haven’t had a chance to visit or I visited but didn’t personally love – but I know that other people do!

Avalon Exchange – Located in Palma Ceia, the selection is true to character. It’s organized by size and style and offers good prices! However, it’s not a very size-inclusive space.
Sunshine Thrift Store – This is one of those places where you’ll find the most vintage pieces and hidden gems, but you’re going have to search. There may be some sort of organization here, but I’m not quite able to pin it down. I did find a cute pair of denim shoes here though!