Consignment shops are a great place to find special bargains on typically high-quality items, and I think that they are frequently overlooked when it comes to budgeting and shopping. So often we assume that the only way to acquire something new is to buy it brand-new from a store, but in a consignment shop, the emphasis is that it is new to you. And to help, consignment stores usually have high standards on what items they will accept, so there may be rules like no scuff marks on shoes, no tears/rips/tatters on clothing, all parts must be included in a toy/puzzle, etc.
Children's consignment shops can be a goldmine because children outgrow clothing so quickly and the closet needs to be updated regularly. I just visited a favorite children's consignment shop and picked up a Baby Gap dress (in perfect condition) and a pair of Italian girl's shoes that are originally priced way more than what I paid. In addition, I found a terrific Parents-brand activity set that I know my daughter will love and I wasn't able to pass it up.
My total bill was about $50 for a pair of shoes, the toy, and three clothing items (2 dresses and a t-shirt). Not bad.
This particular shop has clothing, toys, bedding, baby supplies such as Boppys, books, baby gear, maternity wear, and children's accessories (shoes, underwear, hats, belts, tights, ties, etc).
I highly recommend a visit to a children's consignment shop, if you have time. The service is friendly and personal (I am on the list to be called if a double-stroller comes in), and the finds can be terrific. I know of 3 in the Houston area:
Second Childhood
Young & Restless
Andre's
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
One of my friends swears by these stores. In addition to the reasons you mentioned, she is very into the reuse/recycle/sustainable living idea as much as possible, and that's a great way to do it.
ReplyDeleteI'll definitely have to keep this in mind when it's my time to have kids.