I love shopping; it’s in my DNA. My mom says retail is a great therapy, and maybe it is.
However, I prefer to think of myself as a bargain hunter.
You know the IKEA commercial when the woman who is leaving IKEA looks at her receipt with surprise at the price she paid. Assuming it was a mistake, she runs towards her husband, waiting in their vehicle, and yells, “Start the car!” to quickly escape before IKEA can catch its error. However, IKEA says it’s not a mistake — it’s the IKEA Summer Sale, during which customers can save up to 50 percent off select items. Well, that’s the feeling I love when shopping.
I get that IKEA feeling when I leave a resale shop. Of course, I have found some unbelievable treasures that save me money, but I feel good about giving a soup bowl or vase a new life.
There are other great reasons to check out your local resale shops:
Sustainability
One of the most significant advantages of shopping at a resale shop is the environmental impact. When you buy secondhand, you’re not contributing to the production of new clothing, which saves resources like water and energy. Additionally, resale shops prevent unwanted clothing from ending up in landfills, reducing waste and pollution.
Affordability
Resale shops offer a variety of items at a fraction of their original cost. As a result, you can find designer and high-quality pieces that would otherwise be out of your budget. For example, my bonus daughter found a pair of Khloe Kardashian’s Good American jeans for $5; these jeans sell for over $100.
Unique Finds
Resale shops are a treasure trove of unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. You can find vintage clothing, retro accessories, and trendy items no longer sold in stores. So if you’re looking for something that stands out, a resale shop is the perfect place to start.
The picture above is one of my treasures; I found this beautiful orange vase for $4. It now sits on my coffee table; I love it.
Quality
You can find new clothes as well as vintage items. Unlike fast fashion, resale shops offer things that have already stood the test of time. They’ve been worn and washed, so you know they’re durable and made to last. Plus, since the pieces have already been pre-worn, you can see any flaws or imperfections before you buy them.
Give back to the community.
One hundred percent of the merchandise sold at Frisco Resale is donated by local citizens and businesses, with proceeds helping to fund the life-changing programs and services we provide.
Tips and Advice for Shopping at a Resale Shop:
- Know what you’re looking for
- It’s easy to get overwhelmed when shopping at a resale shop since there’s so much variety. Start by listing the items you’re looking for and keep them in mind while browsing. This will help you stay focused and save time. My bonus daughter and I are writing a Soup book due out in 2024, and we are looking for unique soup bowls for our book.
- Try everything on
Sizes and cuts can vary widely in resale shops, so it’s essential to try everything on before buying. However, don’t be discouraged if something doesn’t fit perfectly. You can always get it altered to fit your body. - Check for flaws
Since resale items have already been worn, inspecting them for any flaws or damages is essential. Look for stains, tears, or missing buttons. If you’re unsure about an item’s quality, ask a sales associate for their opinion. - Be open-minded
Resale shops can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to keep an open mind while shopping. You may find something you never thought you’d wear but end up loving. Also, don’t be afraid to try new styles and trends.
Shopping at a resale shop offers numerous advantages, including sustainability, affordability, unique finds, and quality. By following my tips and advice, you can make the most of your shopping experience and find some fantastic items. So, next time you’re in the market for new clothes, consider checking out your local resale shop. You never know what gems you may find.