Ive been thrifting long before Macklemore brought the cool factor to your grandpas clothes. What came out of necessity has turned into a passion and maybe somewhat of a hobby. Why spend outrageous amounts of money for stylish clothes when I can get them on the cheap gently used?

Thrifting Success; 9 articles of clothing for $40

Its easy to mix in more expensive, investment pieces with my trendy or fun finds from my local thrift store. For the necessary, but not expensive (i.e. t-shirts, leggings, tights, etc.) items I pick them up from a discount store like Marshalls or Ross, or grab them on sale from Target or Forever21.

The constant refrain repeated by friends when we talk about thrifting is, I just dont know how you always find great things. I find things, because I look. If you never set foot in a thrift shop, youll never know the potential. Once you do step in, here are 5 tips to make it worth your while.

1)  Know what types of things you need (Be prepared) I have a mental list of things I need. As the weather perks up, I want more summer dresses. Pants are something I always can use more off. If youre someone who loves a good button upstart there. Shop for the types of pieces you like to wear. Dont buy a skirt if you hate skirts. Youll never wear it. (And then you can skip the skirt aisle.)

2)  Know your colors (what looks good on you) Blues are easy for me, which is why my closet is full of thrifted blue pieces. I had to put a moratorium on black, and now I might even have to do the same for blue. Dont buy that neon jacket, if you never wear neon. If youre looking to add new colors outside your palette, start with accessories. By knowing my colors I can easily visually bi-pass the items that arent in my wheel house.

3)  Know your schedule (what events will you want something special to wear) I have an auction to attend later this month, and the theme is sparkle. You can bet each trip Im on the lookout for something shiny. Do you have an upcoming wedding, or big birthday bash? Save yourself the tears and frustration the week of the event and plan ahead. BUT dont buy for that event you may never have. If you dont need a formal dress, move on.

4)  If possible skip the weekend. (busy, crowded and often picked over) Try to find a day that works during the week. Even better if you can go during the day. Ill sacrifice a lunch for a run to the thrift store. If your local store changes their sale during the week, trying going then. The sale items wont be picked over. If you must go on the weekend, go in the morning, or when there is a big event. (Football season means Sunday afternoons are often a perfect and uncrowded time.)

5)  Join the loyalty program. (youll get special discounts and know when the sales are coming) One of my favorite stores gives loyalty members access to discounts a day ahead. I get to skip the craziness and still snag a deal. Loyalty memberships give you a chance to talk more with the staffdo so. They know everything, and will share when that store restocks.

Thrifting is about patience. Know your brands, what types of clothes make you feel good and all of this will be easy. Thrifting can be fun and Im sure youll think so after you bring home your first find.

Already a thrifter? What has helped you along your way?

The Pacific Northwest has much to crow about. Mild winters and temperate summers allow the masses to enjoy the coast, the mountains and the many great things in between. With apples being a top produce of the region, its no wonder ciders are popular here.

If youre a beer drinker, no doubt youve been told that cider has more to offer. Sure, there are the ever popular sweet ciders that are not your thing. With APVs consistently in the 6%+ ciders are not to be compared with cheap beer. Much like wine, cider can offer you sweet dessert style, floral aromas and bone dry qualities.

For an average beer drinker, start in the middle with the dry style.

1) Seattle Cider Company Dry This is my go to for cider. First, in the Seattle area its becoming the equivalent of Mannys-meaning you can find it just about everywhere. Its dry, without leaving a cotton mouth feeling. Second, I love it for its ability to pair well with most any meal. From a burger to a pork chop, its not going to change the flavor of your meal. I like food, so this is important. On top of all of those reasons it comes in a can.

2) Tieton Cider Works Tieton Blend English style ciders are a good way for any beer drinker to start and Tieton does well with this one. Theres an earthiness to this one that I especially enjoy. Even better, Tieton grows their own apples-which makes the cider even easier to enjoy.

3) Snowdrift Cider Dry Another English cider, this one is refreshing and perfect for that sunny day on the patio. It doesnt hurt that the Dry has been awarded honorsthrow this one back like a champion.

4) Reverand Nats Revelation Newtown Pippin Generally I recommend Reverand Nats for the non-traditional style ciders, but this single-varietal (meaning only one type of apple) is not to be missed. Its refreshing and light with no surprises. In this instance, simple goes a long way.

5) Portland Cider Company Kinda Dry Smooth without a bite, the Kinda Dry is a step away from my preferred Dry style, but still worthy of making the top 5. Be forewarned, theyre actually from Oregon City. Tsk, tsk. Dont let that stop you, enjoy it and consider yourself on the cider bandwagon.

If youre ready to stop your game up, try a ginger or hopped cider. The flavors are stronger, more complex, and worthy of exploration.

Coats can be expensive and I dont generally recommend choosing trendy pieces. But here are 3 trends I adore with silohettes that are flattering and likely to stay around multiple seasons. While I wouldnt invest in their expensive counterparts, I think youll find these options budget friendly and perfect for this winter.

I love the fit & flare that is popping up all over the place this year. Theres no reason that you need to be devoid of all shape in your winter coat. Plus this will work on all body types!

H&M Cape $59.95

Oh, the Cape! Its romantic and daring all at once. What I love best about a cape is that is transitions seamlessly from day to evening wear.

Generally, the military style has made me cringe. Likely due to the shapeless styles. BUT layer this with a chunky sweater and cute ankle boots and well say all is forgiven. Dont go to far and lose all your shape, try pairing with skinny jeans or a skimming maxi skirt.

Which will you consider adding to your wardrobe this winter?