Best Thrift Stores in America

2:30 PM, July 30 2012

By Andie Flores

My mother raised me right. Meaning, she taught how to find a great bargain. As kids, my sister and I rose with my mother at the crack of dawn to go to outlet malls in far away towns, dedicated whole weekends to garage and estate sales, and didn't leave a single thrift store until we'd combed through every inch of the place...twice. (There's sparkly, patterned, retro treasure to be found in every corner of every thrift store, trust me.) Years of incredible purchases later, and I'm proud to say that all of that bargain hunting guidance has paid off. These days, I'd consider myself a little bit of a thrift expert. Props, Mom. Props.

When I thrift and shop for vintage, my plan is simple: go early, go often, go cheap, and most importantly, have so much fun. There isn't room in my wallet to splurge on much, so the goal is to get as many outstanding pieces as I can for as little as possible. You'll know you're doing it right if it feels like stealing.

I've compiled a list of some great thrift stores around the country that not only offer AMAZING prices, but also provide an equally inviting shopping environment.

Have at it! Click through the slideshow to see where you should go on your next thrifting trip. (Bring something cool back for me!)

The last time I visited New Bohemia, my friends had to drag me out because I didn't want to leave. There are racks upon racks and walls and walls upon walls of colorful vintage pieces. Bring your guy friends to check out New Bohemia's brother store, New Brohemia, where there are guayaberas and shirts from the '70s and '80s galore.

New Bohemia, 512-326-1238, Facebook