Summer Fun with Thrifted Finds

Racks of brand new swimsuits at our 
5000 San Mateo store location

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Courtesy of designsponge.com

When the mercury in the thermometers starts jumping and New Mexico's monsoon season arrives (umbrellas, anyone?) it means that summer is in full swing. Yet, in typical fashion, everyone's favorite season will be gone before we know it. Enjoy the outdoors, stay cool, and look the part on the cheap by thrifting and upcycling unique pieces that will maintain their value long after the hot, lazy days are gone! Ready to take full advantage of this charming season?  Local thrift stores like Goodwill Industries of New Mexico offer one-stop shopping for all the supplies you need to buy, upcycle, and enjoy the perfect summer gear. Below, check out my top suggestions for maximum summer enjoyment.

There's one summer essential that no New Mexican can do without and that's access to a swimming pool. Whether you're hitting up  fantastic public spots or diving into your own private one, those poolside days add up, and so does the wear and tear on your suit. Keeping a few bathing suits in your wardrobe is a great idea so you’ll never have to skip a day in the water. Chlorine damages the thin material of swimsuits quickly and every year there's a new suit style to try out, so don't why spend an arm and a leg? Goodwill racks  supply a plenty of brand new suits in a variety of colors and cuts that keep you cool and your wallet full.

Have a little extra time on your hands this summer? Upcycling patio furniture allows you to match the style of your home easily and flex some creative muscles. There's a wealth of possibilities when it comes to refurbishing and repurposing the array of furniture found at thrift stores. A simple coat of outdoor paint to an old school wicker chair can instantly add life to the piece, while reupholstering furniture pieces can upgrade them from faded to fancy in no time. The best part? You can find fabrics and other crafting supplies on the cheap at Goodwill just as easily as you can find the right piece of outdoor furniture, so you save a few bucks on gas as well!

More of an indoor person during the heat of summer? Wait it out with board games, movies, books, and puzzles. Whatever you're in the market for this summer- chances are you can find it in the aisles of your neighborhood thrift store, so why spend more? If you're using those extra hours of daylight for productivity, Goodwill even offers a wealth of programs and trainings to develop job skills and more.

Questions? Get in touch! 

About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.