Green Your Retail Therapy

I don’t know about you, but I love deals.  I especially love it when they pop up unexpectedly, and I know, know that because of my mad shopping skills no one else will ever get a deal as amazing as I just did.

If you like to be surprised, are up for a challenge and want a fun and easy way to support the planet, then read on, because the green art of resale shopping is about to rock your world.

Now, I know that a lot of people are leery about shopping for pre-owned treasure.  Their reasons usually range from the “gross” factor (someone else’s body touched this!), to the convenience factor (there is not enough time in my day to sort through rack upon rack of stuff that someone else’s body touched!) to pride (we are not so poor that we have to stoop to this level).

All interesting arguments; however, at the end of the day, shopping resale is a great way to embrace a less wasteful way of living, and get some phenomenal clothes for your baby or children at a tiny fraction of the price you would pay at retail.   And P.S.? You can find plenty of great maternity and fashionable clothing for yourself, as well.

Many specialty resale shops carry only name-brand clothing

Cleanliness? That’s what washing machines are for
I would say from my experience that 95% of resale clothing is in clean, wearable condition.  The shops do screen for junk so you don’t have to (although they’re only human and occasionally miss a spot or tear).   You wash it all when you get home anyway, so it’s like it was always yours. (As a side note, please don’t send your unwearable discards to the donations centers just because you don’t want to throw it away yourself. If you hate throwing anything away, try doing some of these activities with your used clothing.)

Time Consuming?  More like a mini vacation for my mind
I find the sifting and sorting and thumbing through the racks very meditative.  I am concentrating so deeply on my task that my head hamsters stop their wheel-running and I get some well needed mental rest.  Yes, sometimes it takes awhile before I stumble upon that practically new Eileen Fisher sweater for $5.50, or the adorable Oilily romper for $3.25.  But when I do, the fog clears and it’s high fives and champagne fountains for everyone.

Too Proud?  You can never be too proud to help the earth and her people
Here is where you have to take a step back and understand that many, many people shop resale because it reduces the waste of new purchases and keeps usable garments out of landfills.  Also, proceeds from many organizations go towards charities that support a variety of causes.  And of course, a seasoned thrift-store diva loves the satisfaction of spending her money wisely, especially on garments for babies and children that will be quickly outgrown.

So if you’ve never tried it, at least go down to one of your local resale stores (although I find best things at the more out-of-the-way places*) and just look.  After all, how can you experience the joy of the impossible find if you can’t bring yourself to at least cross the threshold?

Oh, and don’t forget your reusable bags.

Share with us:  What is your favorite resale shop?  Be sure to include your geographic region.