Lakeview Hub » Thrift Smart: Building Your Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank

May is Work Wear at the Lakeview Hub; we're focused on looking great on a budget. The Hub will offer employment services and clothing-focused workshops at the Lakeview Hub, 799 Douglas Street, every Wednesday. The Thrift Smart fun, interactive workshops will run on Wednesday, May 14, from 10:30 to 11:30 at the Hub. The workshop is free, but please register to reserve your spot.

You don’t have to spend a lot to look sharp. If you need clothes for interviews or to start a new job, thrift shopping can be your best friend. With a bit of patience and a good eye, you can score quality clothes at a fraction of the price — and even help the planet while you're at it.

Thrift Shopping

As people become concerned about the amount of clothing in the world, thrift shopping has become an environmental act. It can be fun to find hidden gems and deals, and it can be full of surprises: You never know what you'll find—from work boots to interview suits.

Smart Buying Tips

Sometimes, the prospect of sifting through the racks can be overwhelming. Here are some suggestions for getting what you need from thrift stores.

Go in with a goal

Are you shopping for a job? A specific uniform? Cold weather gear? Know what you need before you start, so you don’t get sidetracked by things you won’t wear.

Focus on quality

Check for:

Sturdy stitching and seams
No holes, missing buttons, or broken zippers
Brands known for lasting materials (Carhartt, Dickies, Levi’s, etc.)
If it feels heavy and well-made, it probably is.

Try it on if you can

Sizes can vary across brands and years. If there’s a fitting room, use it — and if not, hold it up to your body or bring a tape measure.

Look beyond the label

Some items can be repurposed — a flannel shirt can double as a light jacket, or cargo pants might work great for landscaping, even if they’re not “official” workwear.

Thrift Finds That Work for Work

Button-down shirts – Great for interviews and office jobs
Slacks and khakis – Look polished, but are super affordable
Durable jeans – Perfect for construction or warehouse jobs
Work boots (in good condition) – Hard to find, but a steal if you do
Scrubs – Often available in sets for just a few bucks
Blazers or suit jackets – For professional settings or interviews

What to Skip

Worn-out shoes or boots (especially with damaged soles or steel toes)
Anything that smells heavily or has visible stains
Items with excessive pilling or fading
Items that “almost” fit — you likely won’t wear them

You don’t need a big budget to look professional, stay safe, or feel confident on the job. With a little effort and smart shopping, you can build a solid wardrobe for work and life — one thrifted gem at a time.

Thrift Smart Workshop Details

Date: May 14, 2025
Location: Lakeview Hub – 799 Douglas St., Oshawa
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

About the Hub

The Hub’s mission to empower the Lakeview community by providing local, essential services that cultivate personal and collective growth. Our focus is on real solutions for real people, addressing their practical needs and nurturing their social and emotional well-being.

The Hub is about more than finding jobs—it’s about helping people thrive in all aspects of their lives. By providing employment support that helps individuals holistically connect with the labour market, we aim to meet people where they are, understand their challenges and work with them to build a stronger, more connected community.

At the heart of it, the Hub ensures that everyone in the Lakeview community can grow, succeed, and feel proud of who they are. Lakeview Hub envisions a thriving community where individuals are empowered to reach their full potential. We see a future where everyone has access to the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed—where connections are strengthened, challenges are met with resilience, and every person feels valued, respected, and proud to be part of something bigger. Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant Lakeview, where hope and possibility are within everyone’s reach.

Lakeview Hub - Empowering the community together.

Thrift Smart: Building Your Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank