How I Know a Shirt Has Potential

One of the questions I hear most often is, "How do you know which shirts to buy?"

The honest answer?

Sometimes I just get a feeling.

I've spent enough time thrifting that I don't really see shirts anymore—I see possibilities.

The first thing that usually catches my eye is the graphic. It might remind me of a favorite movie, a nostalgic TV show, a fun saying, or just make me smile. I often find myself thinking, Someone is going to love this.

Next, I look at color.

I start imagining which flannels or lightweight tops would complement the graphic. Sometimes it's an obvious match. Other times, I enjoy creating unexpected color combinations that somehow just work.

Then comes the fabric.

Is it soft? Is it comfortable? Will it sew well? If I'm making one of my summer tops, I want the final piece to feel just as good to wear as it looks.

I also pay attention to brands, vintage styles, and seasonal themes. Holiday graphics, retro designs, and unique prints always catch my attention because they're one-of-a-kind. Once someone buys that shirt, I probably won't find another exactly like it.

That's one of my favorite parts of upcycling. Every thrift trip feels like a treasure hunt. I never know what I'll find, but I know I'll come home inspired. People often tell me, "I never would have looked twice at that shirt."

Honestly...

Neither would I a few years ago.

Learning to upcycle has completely changed the way I see secondhand clothing. Now, instead of asking, Would I wear this? I find myself asking, What could this become?

And that's usually when I know a shirt has potential.