by Jill Swanson
I love to travel. One of my hobbies when I am on the road is to search out consignment clothing shops. As a professional shopper (a.k.a. image consultant) most people think I get my clothes at high end shops. NOT! The fact is, 80% of what I own is secondhand. This adventure is a modern-day treasure hunt. It gives me a chance to wear fashions that I could never justify spending the money on in a designer store. And frankly speaking, it’s FUN!
Knowing how to shop them is the key. We need a GPS to navigate this unique form of shopping. There are lots of hazards out there that can throw you off course. Here are some tips that will better prepare you for a successful, rewarding thrift trip:
Plan in Advance
Cruise your closet before rushing to the stores. Make a “needs” list. Plan to look for 2 – 3 of those items (any more than can be overwhelming). This will provide direction to help you stay on track.
Dress for success. Many of these shops have few (if any) dressing rooms. Wear slim fitting clothes so you can try things on without the need to disrobe. Chose shoes that slip on an off easily. Accessorize sparingly. Dress the lower half for function and the upper half for simplicity and style. You shop your best when you look your best.
Know the difference between consignment and thrift. Consignment stores give 40% – 50% to the seller and are usually very particular about what they take into the store. Thrift store items are usually donated and sometimes stained or dysfunctional. While there are great deals to be found here, it takes a more energy to shop them.
I search thrift store and consignment for my clients on a regular basis and have found the best buys in the thrift stores are usually:
- Slacks and jeans (a change in weight causes women to let go of these items fast).
- Jean jackets – since they rarely change much and vintage is always in.
- Brand name tops (Cabi, Banana Republic, Chicos)
- Quality accessories such as 100% leather belts, genuine stone necklaces, and nice scarves.
The list above can also be used in better consignment stores and to that I would add:
- Blazers, jackets and coats
- Moderately priced jewelry
- Sweaters
- Shoes, boots, and purses
Full Speed Ahead
Know your best colors, when it comes to secondhand shopping it will make sorting through the racks considerably easier. When you shop for coats, blazers, tops or jewelry be sure they enhance or highlight your eye color, your skin tone, or your hair coloring. Chances are great that these items will stay in your wardrobe for years ahead, simply because they flatter you so naturally.
Be open to experimenting. This is a chance to test drive a new look with little risk. If you come across something that’s not on your list but you absolutely love it, give it a chance. Ask yourself if this item enhances your style, is within your budget, and brings something new to your wardrobe that’s been missing. If the answers are yes, buy it.
Size is only a number, especially in this situation. Different brands size differently. And clothes may have shrunk, stretched, or been altered. Shop one size up and one size down in addition to your actual size.
Be Cautious
Gently used items can be tempting but are not always a bargain. Watch for irreversible imperfections. Walk away from unrepairable rips, un-zippable zips, and yellow pits. However, any defects you can fix or hide are fair game!
Keep in mind, if you can’t pair it, you won’t wear it and if it doesn’t fit, it isn’t “it”. Factor in alterations and cleaning costs. Even high-end designers make mistakes. Don’t get sucked into buying something just because it’s a designer label with a cheap price. Ask yourself, “Would I have paid double the price marked on the ticket?” If the answer is no, let it go.
Be aware of the return policy. Most will not take returns, some will give a store credit within seven days, is that really going to work for you?
Styles change and so do you. With changes in your body, age, and lifestyle, it’s easy to make mistakes. It’s best to have somebody at your side who can be objective, informed, and looking out for your best interests. An honest sister, friend, or professional like myself can be your best companion to get the most out of your shopping trip. I’m here for you!
For more information on how you can shop like a pro, and make the most of what you’ve got, check out Jill’s book, “Simply Stylish – Look Great, Spend Less” and her website/blog at www.jillswanson.com.
What’s the best bargain you’ve found while 2nd hand shopping?
Image coach Jill Swanson loves to help people make the most of what they’ve got and develop their own personal style while discovering the silent language behind clothing and colors. Jill is a Jesus girl and the author of several books including: Simply Beautiful and the recently released, 30 Day Makeover – Inside and Out. For more info please visit www.jillswanson.com