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One of the best money-savers that I’m aware of is resales shops that sell gently used or overstock merchandise. These stores often allow you to buy name-brand merchandise at a fraction of the original cost.
One resale store that we’ve been frequenting a lot is Plato’s Closet. Plato’s Closet specializes in teen and tween fashions. If your teen just HAS TO HAVE IT and you don’t want to pay full price, this might be the store for you.
Some of our recent Plato’s Closet buys include:
- A prom-style dance dress (that looks like it was made for our teen). Cost: $10.00
- Brand-name blue jean jacket. Cost: $15.00
- Artsy Fall skirt and blouse: Cost: Skirt, $8.00, Blouse, $6.00
The Plato’s Closet chain of stores is just one of many resale shop options available nationwide. There’s something for every need, look through your local Yellow Pages to find the resale shop that you need. (We even bought exercise equipment a few years ago from a resale shop!)
There are a few things that you should be aware of concerning resale shops:
- Merchandise varies from store to store
- Not every fashion is available in every size
- Styles are available in limited quantities
- Items are often one fashion cycle behind
- Check items carefully for damage, stains, etc.
- Many resale stores will not allow returns
Remember, most resale shops also accept gently used merchandise. So, you might be able to get something back for that Christmas gift you never used or the sweater your child outgrew before she had a chance to wear it.
Contents (c) Copyright 2007, Laura Spencer. All rights reserved
