Shopping secondhand has become a popular option for fashion and clothing lovers. Living in Seattle, home of Macklemore and his iconic song, Thriftshop, I think there are more secondhand stores on one block than there are Starbucks. Even furniture stores are getting in on the action, from consignment shops to Goodwills and Salvation Armies.
Now thrift shops get a bad rap sometimes because you can find anything and everything in them. I'll be honest, a lot of it is cheap junk, but you are able to find some gems at amazing prices. It can be a little daunting and overwhelming for some, but fear not. Even the most anti-shoppers can conquer these stores with a little guidance and direction.
It is important to have an idea in mind of what you are shopping for. One of the ways to do this is by thrifting based on your qi. Qi is the term for energy used in Feng Shui. This qi is broken into the five elements of Feng Shui and can be used as a self-identification tool. It guides everything in life, from our health to our mood....even our design preferences.
Using Feng Shui and our personal qi, we can thrift with confidence. If you don't know what your elemental qi is, you can find that out in my linked post.
Water Qi
Water types are often artists, introverts, and deeply emotional/intuitive. They gravitate towards moody design palettes and love old 'occultist' vibes. Ornate metal frames, cloches, and candlesticks create that mystic feel.
On the other hand, there is also this global and collector mentality about them. Thrifting oriental rugs, bohemian tapestries, and carved trunks would be up their alley. It means even more to the Water Qi people if they got this piece while traveling.
Earth Qi
Earth types enjoy the sentimental value, comfort, and charm behind pieces. These types love antiques to the max, especially the stories behind them. They have no problem when it comes to thrifting. Farmhouse pieces such as old hutches and ladder back chairs create a comforting vibe for this type.
Wood Qi
Wood types like, well, wood. Rustic pieces like that reclaimed dining table or industrial bookcase speak to the builder behind some Wood types. Bonus if it's got the dings and dents to show that salvaged appearance.
Other Wood Qi people prefer more refined wood pieces, such as midcentury coffee tables and Eames chairs.
Fire Qi
Fire types are BOLD. They enjoy fun and quirky pieces...anything that tells a story. Loving color, a great tip is to paint or reupholster a piece in a bright and dynamic way. A Neo Classical hutch in hot pink. Yes. A wingback chair in a cheetah print fabric. Yes and Yes.
Metal Qi
Metal types are selective on objects and decor. They aspire towards beauty and refinement. That being said, they will look for classic pieces that are timeless and simplistic. A wishbone chair or metal frame bed are great furniture selections for these Qi types.
Feng Shui Tip | Before bringing these thrifted items into your home, be sure to clear these. Smudging is a great way to do this. Head over to my other post to find out how to smudge.
