I have recently fallen in love with consignment clothing stores.  I’m not talking about thrift stores, which are very valuable and worthy in there own right.  I’m talking about those resale clothing stores where fancy labeled, barely worn clothes can be bought at just a smidgen of the price.   Here are just a few benefits of consignment clothing stores:

(1) as stated before, nice quality clothes at a reasonable price

(2)  smaller stores than the retail giants, which curbs my sensory overload

(3) more limited choices than the retail giants so decision making is easier

(At first, limited selection seems like a downside, but isn’t it easier to choose between 200 items than 2,000?)

(4) the opportunity to support a local business and to experience the local flavor of your favorite shop

(5) consignment shopping is great for the environment since the clothes are essentially being “recycled”

I have found so many benefits to buying resale that I am going to  make 2009 “The Year of Consignment Shopping.”  In 2009, I will buy almost all my clothes from resale shops.   To build in some breathing room, I will allow 12 items in 2009 to be bought retail.  Also, I will exclude underwear, socks, and shoes.  I’ve got to build some flexibility in the plan or the pressure will make me cave. I’ll post an update blog in the future to let you know how the year unfolds.

In the mean time, here are a few of my favorite Austin resale shops:

Buffalo Exchange on Guadalupe has a young, funky vibe.

Second Time Around Boutique on Burnet Road has a sophisticated, more mature vibe.

Have fun shopping!