It's that time of year again. The kids are getting ready to go back to school, and they're pining for the latest in name-brand apparel.
And perhaps you've noticed that your wardrobe could use a little sprucing up as well. But you have shunned taking action due to price-tag apprehension. If so, a consignment store might be the answer to updating your attire without breaking the bank.
NAME BRANDS AT LOWER PRICES
The stigma of buying recycled clothing has decreased over the years - in large part to the new breed of resale stores.
They're a far cry from thrift stores with musty scents and out-of-date fashions. Merchandise on display at upscale consignment stores is clean, pressed and up to date.
Another feature that distinguishes consignment stores from a typical thrift store is the wide range of name-brand clothing available, a good portion of which has barely been worn.
Prices at consignment stores are typically 50 percent or less than at retail stores and are reduced even further at set intervals.
Policies vary, but typically prices are marked down approximately 20 percent after 30 days and an additional 40 percent after 60 days.
If an item catches your eye but is out of your budget, there is always a possibility it will be priced to buy at the end of the month when markdowns are applied.
MORE MONEY IN YOUR POCKET
Another possible avenue of savings is to inspect each article of clothing carefully before purchasing. If a button is missing or the zipper sticks, ask the store manager for a discount.
More often than not they will oblige, and even if you factor in the price of a minor alteration, you still come out ahead compared to buying new.
The end of a season is a good time to find bargains, as the stores will try to make room for new merchandise.
If there is a specific item you're interested in, let the sales staff know and they will call you when a desired preference arrives in your size.
You will get first dibs on the item and, more than likely, there will be other garments in your size from the same consignor.
In addition to clothing, many consignment stores also carry footwear, as well as accessories like handbags and jewelry.
Consignment stores not only serve as the perfect remedy against the strain of clothing expenses, but they can enable you to put money in your pocket. The simple task of cleaning your closet can lead to cash with most resale shops paying consignors 40 to 50 percent of the selling price.
KNOW HOW TO CONSIGN
If you are not familiar with the operating procedures of consignment shops in your area, start by looking at the Yellow Pages under "consignment," "used clothing" and "resale" headings.
The Internet is also a good starting point, and you can often determine the quality of offerings available on the store's website. Contact each shop and get a clear idea of what types of clothing they accept: in-season items only, casual, name brand, professional, etc. Some stores require appointments, and others accept walk-ins.
When you visit a store pay close attention to the details. Chances are if you find the selection mediocre, the racks cluttered and the merchandise unorganized, other shoppers will as well, which means your clothing might sell better at a different location.
Ask what percentage of each sale you will keep and if checks will automatically be sent to your home address, or if you need to come to the store and pick them up.
If you are impressed by the store's inventory and know you will be using any earnings to purchase clothing, you can negotiate a trade-in price.
Keep a record of what you consign, and contact the store a few days before your selling period expires. Unsold items will be returned to you, although many shops donate unwanted items upon request.
Chances are once you visit a consignment store , you'll find yourself with more clothing options while spending less money and putting cash back in your pocket.
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