I used to donate and buy from our small town thrift store until I saw a friend of mine wearing one of my old sweater vests. I didn't say anything but it was a little weird. Another time I was at my kids' school talking to two teachers. Teacher #1 commented on my U of Wisconsin sweatshirt and asked if I went to school there because she had too. I said no, I got it at the thrift store. Teacher #1 turned to teacher #2 and said "is that the sweatshirt I gave you?". Teacher #2 turned bright red and was horribly embarrassed. Now I shop at the big stores down in town.