Thrift Like a Pro: Budget Babe Secrets from Zim to Tokyo

Thrift Like a Pro: Budget Babe Secrets from Zim to Tokyo

This is not a paid ad. This is just your girl, sharing her style secrets — one budget outfit at a time.

There was a time in my life when my budget was tighter than my favorite pair of skinny jeans, but one thing about me: I was never going to let that stop me from looking good. Whether I was heading to work, attending an event, or simply walking around Harare, I believed in showing up as that girl — stylish, put together, and most importantly, authentic to myself.

So many people used to ask me, “Where did you get those jeans?” or “How do you always look so fashionable without breaking the bank?” And the truth is, my fashion journey was built on the backbone of thrift stores and local gems that kept me looking like a whole Pinterest board — without the price tag of one.

Let me put you on to a few of the stores that carried me through some of my best-dressed seasons in Zimbabwe. If you're a girl on a budget, a fashion lover, or just someone tired of paying too much for clothes, this one’s for you.

First up, we’ve got Unique Vintage — my first love when it comes to thrift shopping in Harare. This spot had me in a chokehold, and to this day, if I step foot in Zim, I’m making a straight line there. Unique Vintage always had the best denim — from real-deal Levi’s to durable Wrangler mom jeans that hugged you in all the right places. Prices were chef’s kiss too. I remember scoring high-quality denim for just $10, and recently, the collection has evolved to include football jerseys, joggers, and hats. If you’re into streetwear, vintage flair, or that effortlessly cool aesthetic, this store is your plug.

Then there’s NNT Collection, a boutique brand that knew how to make a girl feel seen — especially a girl who was trying to serve looks on a tight budget. What I loved about NNT was how they didn’t just sell clothes, they sold outfits. Imagine walking in with $50 and walking out with five full looks, already styled and ready to wear. Pants and tops sold as combos for just $10, and dresses were just as affordable. The pieces always felt exclusive — the kind of items you’d never see duplicated at a party. That’s what made NNT feel like a best-kept secret. Every haul felt like a fashion jackpot.

Another personal favorite was The One and Only, specifically the branch at Village Walk in Borrowdale. The name says it all. This store was a treasure chest of vintage, preppy, and soft cottagecore pieces. Whether I was looking for a cute jumper, a skirt, a flowy dress, or even shoes, I always found something I loved. The price range was perfect for the budget girlie — you could walk away with a gem for as little as $5 or $7. If your style leans a little vintage-chic with a romantic flair, this spot should be high on your list.

If you’re a denim lover with a taste for streetwear, then Overnight Vintage Wear might just be your dream come true. What sets this brand apart is that it’s not just a store — it’s a whole fashion experience. The designer behind Overnight is insanely talented. Not only does he sell amazing thrifted jeans (think mom jeans, baggy fits, Y2K vibes), but he also reworks denim into custom pieces that speak to your personality. I loved how he took everyday jeans and turned them into wearable statements. And the best part? His work has even been featured in fashion shows — yet his prices stay grounded, with jeans starting from around $10.

Last but not least, Grayville Thrift. Now this one is for the girls who like variety. You never know what you’ll find, but you’ll always find something. From vintage to preppy to edgy streetwear, Grayville always had a little something for every mood. I loved popping in when they had sales — snatching up cute pieces for as low as $3. It was like going on a treasure hunt, and I always left feeling like I’d struck gold.

So why am I sharing all this?

Because I know what it’s like to want to look good but feel limited by your budget. I know how discouraging it can be to scroll through social media and see outfits you love but can’t afford. But I’m here to tell you that you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to look like a star. Thrifting changed my life — not just in terms of fashion, but also in how I see value. I became more creative, more intentional, and more resourceful. It taught me how to curate a wardrobe that’s truly me.

And no, the thrifting didn’t stop when I left Zim.

Even here in Tokyo, I’m still a thrift girlie through and through. I frequent stores like 2nd Street and Bazaar Store, where I continue to hunt for those one-of-a-kind, jaw-dropping pieces that turn heads without turning my bank account upside down.

So to all my Zimbabwean sisters (and brothers!) — if you’re in Harare and you’re trying to build your style without blowing your savings, please check out these stores. They’ve done wonders for me, and I know they’ll do the same for you. Thrifting isn’t just about affordability — it’s about sustainability, individuality, and storytelling.

Your next favorite outfit is probably just $10 away.

Cheers to looking like a million bucks on a Makro budget.

Jez 🛍️✨