Actress-turned-fashion designer Eva Mendes has confessed she hits thrift stores for 'new' outfits.

The Hitch star is known for her stunning looks and high-fashion style, but when she's not on the red carpet, Mendes prefers a more vintage look for her everyday wear.

In an interview with Queen Latifah on her U.S. talk show on Wednesday (16Oct13), the actress revealed she's hooked on second-hand shopping sprees.

She admitted, "Give me a Salvation Army and a Goodwill and I will find stuff in there. I love it. I'm a wannabe archaeologist. I could just excavate - I always think I'm gonna find a hidden tomb somewhere."

Mendes also confessed that when she visits a new city, the first stop she makes is to a consignment store - and she's extra pleased when the used wardrobe is already organised for her.

She added, "I like the Salvation Armys that do colour co-ordination. You just go to the colours that appeal to you and you just zero in. It's very serious business. I go by myself, I cannot go with a friend. No chatter."

Mendes recently teamed up with clothing giant New York & Company to create her own women's line, which hit stores last month (Sep13).