I took a break from Blogging for a little while. We bought the house, moved, returned to work, quit, started another new job, and so much more. But I wanted to share this stuff with you all anyway.
There are obviously lots of large online services, for example Poshmark, which have their uses. I have managed a few great finds that way. Then there’s your standard Goodwill, Salvation Army, and other national second hand stores. They also have their place, but I often find I am concerned about how the money is being used and how employees are being treated. So this post is simply a list… a list of the other options for finding those perfect secondhand pieces. These are in an order, by where I look first, but also for my own reasons.
- Local Buy Nothing Groups: If you haven’t heard of Buy Nothing groups, you’re welcome. It’s pretty much exactly what it sounds like. Its a group of local people who post what they have for free to a group. Not only is it great for finding stuff but also for getting rid of things you no longer need. The idea is that before you buy, sell, or donate anything, you post on the group. This keeps resources local, eliminates waste, and also fosters a great community. (not just clothes, you guys)
- Local Thrift and Consignment shops: Notice the word ‘local’ again. Anytime we can support local people and businesses, it’s the best. Keeps resources in your community and also saves shipping etc costs for you and for our environment. That said this is so much easier now that I’m in PDX, back in rural Michigan my options were pretty limited.
- Small online consignment accounts: This is a nice way to shop because you can often find an account that maybe focuses on specific styles, sizes, or qualities. This a great way to find other like minded people, connect with a community and creators maybe you wouldn’t have found otherwise. I’ve even been lucky enough to connect with local sellers this way.
- Try Trade posts or accounts: These are really cool too. Mutually beneficial and cheaper. Not unlike other online situations, you will really want to make sure that you know exactly what you have and exactly what you want. Brand, Specific name of item, size, color, and measurements.
- Ask Friends and online peeps: You never know what or who they might know.
- Then and only then: Try your local Salvation Army… hit up Poshmark. But whatever you do, make sure you are thoughtful about where your dollar is going.
If you guys have other favorite resources for secondhand clothing shopping, let me know what they are!
Coffee & Conundrums 