How to Score the Best Thrift Finds According to TikTok’s Favorite Shopper

If you haven’t heard of Krista Lavrusik, you’re seriously missing out on top tier thrift-spiration. The Half Moon Bay-based thrift pro has built a loyal following on Instagram and TikTok, where she gleefully shares her impressive hauls, spot-on styling tips, and treasure-hunting secrets. Lavrusik believes thrifting isn’t just about scoring amazing pieces—it’s about creativity, savings, and the thrill of the hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned secondhand shopper or just getting started, her tips will help you thrift like a pro. Plus, if you’re a traveler, she has some genius advice for building a capsule wardrobe and leaving space for new finds while on the road.

@krista.lavrusik

get on pinterest + manifest that vibe guuurl👊🏼😘

♬ sonido original – FrankLafey

Go in with a Game Plan (But Stay Open-Minded)

Lavrusik swears by having a general idea of what you’re looking for before hitting the racks. Whether it’s a vintage leather jacket, staple denim, a classic button-down, or a a chunky cable knit sweater, setting an intention helps you stay focused. The best way to do this? Pinterest. Lavrusik is known for manifesting pieces by channeling her style icons—Ralph Lauren, Nancy Meyers or Princess Diana. “My brain is all over the place, and I know so many people’s are when they go to look in their closet to figure out what they want to pack,” she says. “I usually try and take an hour and I’m like, okay, where’s the location that I’m going? What are the vibes? And then Pin from there.”

@krista.lavrusik paris in the spring 🥖🌿🌷✨ #333challenge #top3outfitchallenge ♬ original sound – krista

Build a Capsule Wardrobe (Especially for Travel)

The 3-3-3 method is a signature of Lavrusik’s Tiktok, where she can build as many as 20 outfits out of 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 pairs of shoes. Her trick? Stick to a cohesive color palette and choose versatile, mix-and-match pieces that work across multiple combinations. “Knowing your personal style is great, but I think every single person needs a plain black or white t-shirt, simple-button downs in blacks and whites, and great denim.” From there, you can build. You’ll look effortlessly stylish without overpacking—and leave room for those thrifted souvenirs.

@krista.lavrusik she’s fall americanified🇺🇸🍂✨ #ralphlaurenfall ♬ You'll Accomp'ny Me – Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

Know Your Fabrics & Brands

One of the biggest secrets to thrifting like a pro? Learning how to spot high-quality fabrics and brands. Lavrusik recommends looking for natural fibers like wool, silk, and linen, which not only last longer but also feel better against the skin. Familiarize yourself with designer and heritage brands that hold their value—sometimes a hidden gem is just waiting to be uncovered on the racks. Lavrusik is known for being drawn to tried and true Levis, Eddie Bauer, Ralph Lauren, and as she quips, “Mr. Bean of the LL variety.”

@krista.lavrusik daisy jones X coastal cowgirl was the goal. wow she might just be my best haul yet. 🤩 #thrifthaul #thrifttok #salvationarmyfinds ♬ Supermodel – Taylor Dayne

Don’t Be Too Literal

Some of the best thrift finds are unexpected gems. Keep your eyes open for high-quality materials, unique textures, and classic pieces that transcend trends. But avoid looking like a caricature by mixing and matching eras, styles, and local items. You don’t want to be coming back with a suitcase full of aloha shirts or gemstone rodeo belts that you’ll never wear outside that location.

Location, Location, Location

For seasoned thrifters, it should come as no surprise that a lot of the best shopping can be done in well-to-do neighborhoods. Two of our favorite places to thrift have been in Marin County and Laguna Beach, for instance. Of course there are outliers, but it’s helpful in whittling down where to stop on your trip, where you may have limited time.

@krista.lavrusik thrifting men’s section >>> —for men’s jeans conversion add 2 to 3 to your size. example: im women’s 25 + look for a men’s 28-32 usually. [depending on how baggy I want them] —1/4 zips + crewnecks i always look for men’s large or XL, bc with vintage they get smaller over time —button-downs i get a size 15 15 1/2 + always look to see that it says non-iron bc those are typically better quality + more wrinkle resistant 🙌🏼 —blazers, just try them on in store. always👊🏼 #thriftingtips #thriftingtok #menssection ♬ original sound – krista

Check Every Section (Especially the Men’s)

Some of the best finds aren’t always in the section you’d expect. She swears by browsing the men’s section for oversized blazers, perfectly broken-in denim, and cozy sweaters. The kids’ section can be a goldmine for petite-sized vintage tees and accessories.

Be Minimalist with Packing

One of her biggest tips for thrifting while traveling is to pack light from the start using that 3-3-3 method. That means leaving extra room in your suitcase so you don’t have to scramble when you find that perfect vintage sweater or designer bag. Bring only the essentials and remind yourself that you’ll likely be adding to your wardrobe along the way. A half-full suitcase at the start of your trip means a suitcase full of thrifted treasures by the end.