One evening while home alone I found a program on Netflix that sparked my interest. It was a three-part PBS mini series called The Bletchley Circle. Briefly, the story takes place in the early 50's in the UK where four women who once worked together as code breakers during WWII at Bletchley Park reunite to solve a murder mystery by using the same code breaking/pattern finding skills. Not only was I into the plot line, but I liked their apparel. It reminded me how much I love vintage clothing. Back in Jr. High and High School, I wore mostly thrift store finds, and boy did I have a retro-fabulous collection. My best mate Jenny and I would volunteer at a second hand shop her mother worked at, so we pretty much got first dibs on super cool stuff.

After watching the entire mini series of The Bletchley Circle, I was craving a trip to our local thrift stores. The following day we raced over to one after I got off work. I had less than an hour before they closed, so I had to get down to business! I knew what I was seeking but no idea where to start.

But then magic happened and I found myself saying "yes" more than "no." My final second-hand score was six killa' vintage blouses, a short sleeve pearl button-up checkered camp shirt, a cozy Mr. Rogers-like cardigan sweater and two Jackie O approved tweed swing jackets. My grand total: a whoppin' $41.00.

Weeks later I am aching for some more treasure hunting. After sharing my killa scores on my Facebook page, I've had friends thank me for making them re-think thrift shop tops. Some asked how I was so successful in my finds and even requested I go shopping with and for them.

In response to how I was able to find such fabulous pieces, I compiled a list of thrifty tips. I am sharing my scores on both my fb page and AgenTJ.co in hopes of encouraging ladies to shop thrifty and not be afraid of second-hand. These images are of how I modernized an otherwise discarded granny top. * Please pardon the "selfies" I am usually home alone while getting ready.

Killa' Vintage Blouse # 1: We're Running Wild in the Streets

Killa' Vintage Blouse # 4: Oh how I love your Lacy Ways

Killa' Vintage Blouse # 2: Bitchin' Business

Killa' Vintage Blouse # 5: A Butterfly Effect

Secondhand Score: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Killa' Vintage Blouse # 3: Hiss Hiss Kill Kill

Secondhand Score: I don't camp, Glamp Shirt

8 Thrifty Tips:

Thrifty Tip # 1: Start with a plan. Have an idea of at least a couple key items you are in search of. Otherwise it's like shopping ADD. Of course there is nothing wrong with just browsing, but not having a focus could cause you to overlook the perfect top / dress / jacket that has been waiting just for you. Start in your key focus section. Once you're satisfied with your picks move onto the next section.

Thrifty Tip # 2: Look beyond your size. Rather than only looking in my size, I went through the entire rack and grabbed anything I liked, i.e., special details, colors, prints. I didn't let the larger size tags deter my instinct of pulling an item from the rack. This tip in particular proved to be key for me during this trip and greatly expanded my options. Some of these blouses are two sizes larger than my standard. But which ones? Ah, yes if you can't tell, I won't either.

Thrifty Tip # 3: Look beyond your gender. I love those old western pearl button-down long sleeves. They remind of my darling late Grandfather. And I can only find the best ones in the men's section.

Thrifty Tip # 4: Try on your picks, even if you absolutely hate doing so. You will be happy you didn't pass on that blouse just because the puff sleeves seemed odd but yet worked with your body frame. Conversely, you will kick yourself if you bought something that looked great in your mind, brought it home and found it to be completely hideous upon actually wearing it. But at least you can always donate it back :)

Thrifty Tip # 5: Bring a natural waist belt. I was so happy I already happened to be wearing one with my outfit. When I tried on each larger boxy blouse I was like, "Oh NO" - but when I put the belt on, it transformed the top into a "Oh hell YES!"

Thrifty Tip # 6: If you are looking for a blouse to go with a couple of specific skirts, bring those skirts with you. Try them on with your picks. Again you don't want to end up purchasing items you'll just end up giving back. It's pretty much a waste of your precious time and money.

Thrifty Tip # 7: Take your time. Sift through those endless racks and piles. Even if you don't have all that much time (like I didn't). Don't let the time discourage you. You are on a mission not to be bothered by the approaching closing time!

Thrifty Tip # 8: See how you can make it yours. How will you integrate it into your existing style? Don't just own it, Own It. My style consists mostly of jeans. I practically live in my jeans and have even been known to sleep in them from time to time. But I dress my denim UP with shoes, tops, jackets and handbags. Though I always wear jeans, I rarely look casual. Adding simple touches can get you loads of compliments the minute you step outside your door.

If you have any thrifty tips of your own or a photo of a killa' second-hand score, I'd love to see them. Please feel free to share in the comments section below. I may do a follow up post of your finds and tips.

Happy Shopping!

Content by: Agent J