Happy National Thrift Shop Day!

Anybody who knows me knows that I just love bargains. Today, I wore a new-to-me skirt that I got for $5 at Plato’s Closet without being aware of the holiday.  I don’t actually frequent thrift shops per se because most of the ones I’ve encountered have been geared towards an “older” demographic shall we say.  Goodwill is probably your best bet for “young” clothes, especially in a college town.

One grandma's trash is another grandma's treasure?

I do, however, love Plato’s Closet and have gotten some really cute outfits there.  I almost always get compliments on the clothing I get there, and I don’t shy away from admitting that I bought them there. I’m perfectly happy taking spoiled college kids’ gently-used brand-name clothing and calling it my own.  I will admit that they can be pretty stingy about giving you money for your clothes or even accepting them.  I get the, “They’re in great condition, but they’re too old” excuse pretty often.

Not only is it smart to save money at thrift shops and the like, it’s good for the environment and the economy.  Think about it: rather than throwing those perfectly wearable clothes into a landfill, someone can reuse them.  Also, the item is sold twice, so the economy is getting money from not one, but two purchases, including twice the sales tax (where applicable).  Plus, in most cases, you’re helping out a charity like the United Way if you shop at Goodwill.  Sometimes you have to be patient, but you can score some really excellent finds like some Charlotte Russe black flats, or an adorable black and white polka dotted dress.

So if you like a bargain as much as I do, celebrate Thrift Shop Day early and often!