In order to successfully master the art of thrift shopping, one must have patience with what can seem like an overwhelming abundance of stuff, ranging from vintage to never-worn clothes.

Salenta Baisden, a national exchange student from Los Angeles, CA, radiates chicness and style. The third year psychology major cooperatively walks out of Wheatley Hall during a fire drill, putting on her long black peacoat.

When asked where she bought each of her individual garments, she confidently said that most of it came from thrift stores. Her ensemble consists of a light washed denim shirt under a wool sweater vest, which she accessorized with a gold chain necklace.

She completes this look with high-waisted black shorts paired with black tights and smokey grey knee-high socks, all of which came from thrift stores. A brown leather bag from Urban Outfitters and ankle-length snow boots complete this look.

When asked about her inspiration, she said, “It ranges; I can be very ’60s and ’70s.” This vintage lover looks up to Gwen Stefani and Karl Lagerfeld as her fashion icons.

As for her favorite trend this season, Baisden said, “I’m really diggin’ the acid washed jeans…anything bleached and metallic.” Wasteland, Salvation Army, Crossroads and Urban Outfitters are her staple places to shop.

This California native enjoys layering on account of the harsh Northeast weather. She advised, “Go against the norms. Wear polka dots with stripes. Wear different patterns. Wear black with blue and think outside of the box…”

Style is not about the brand, according to Baisden. It’s about doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.