One Man's Trash Is Another Man's Treasure

...Who says 'hand-me-downs' are a bad thing?! "One man's trash is another man's treasure" is a common phrase that has so much more meaning now, especially with today's failing economy. I knew what thrifting was before I even knew the meaning of "thrifting". I remember going with my Grandma to our local Salvation Army after school. I used to HATE going there. Everything looked old and dusty, and the place smelled funny. But I must admit, there were some interesting things being sold. The difference between us--she shopped for antique collectibles, and now I shop for fun fashion-finds. For those of you who still don't know or understand the meaning of "thrifting", thrifting is simply the act of shopping at a thrift store, or as the bourgeois might prefer to call them, vintage shops. I prefer "vintage shops" (I'm down with bourgeoisie--yeah, you know me!!). Many people are hesitant about thrifting, because most, if not all, of the items are second-hand (you might luck up and find an item that's brand new or has barely been used). I used to be one of those people. "Clothes that have already been worn...?? I'll pass!!" But hey, look on the bright side--the items are in relatively good condition and have been cleaned to perfection, good as new!

Does this dress look like it's been used? Well it has!

Not to mention, it's a great way to find designer pieces at a fraction of the cost. After all, fashion is about having an open mind. If it makes you feel any better, you can always match your "new" vintage skirt with your Silence & Noise tank top. You can find any and everything at vintage shops...cute tops, dresses, purses, earrings, you name it! ...and from every decade too! I personally love the 80's--dolman sweaters, over-the-knee boots...and even the early 90's!! (I'm an 80's baby and the 90's raised me).

As the old adage goes, "History repeats itself". This is no less true of fashion trends. To all of my fashionistas-in-training, as you plunder through the fancy digs at your new favorite thrift shop, you'll start to notice that the gorgeous blouse that you've got your hands on bares a striking similarity to the blouse that the mannequin is wearing in the display window of the trendy, high-end boutique down the street. Here's something else that you may also want to take into consideration: many vintage items have higher standards of quality. And remember, you're getting this high quality item at a lower price. This past summer, I bought a beautiful dress from this place called Cheap Jacks in mid-town. It reminded me of something that would be sold at Urban Outfitters or Anthropologie. The staff was extremely helpful and courteous, and it was easy for me to find what I was looking for, because the racks were grouped off by era/decade. This vintage shop even had a fitting room! Whenever you're in New York City, you should make your way to Cheap Jacks. They have a little something for everyone!

Find out who shops at Cheap Jacks!

http://www.cheapjacks.com/who_shops.php

Thrift stores are relatively inexpensive, and alot of them are downright CHEAP (in a good way) !! But beware, there are some high-priced vintage shops. Even so, just make sure that your wallet can take the plunge. I strongly encourage thrifting. It's a great way to save money--we could all use a bargain right about now. Most importantly, it gives you the opportunity to be uniquely stylish. At least you won't have to worry about anyone else wearing the same thing (don't you just hate when that happens?!). And for all of you last minute shoppers, "Christmas gifts, anyone??"

We have to support our thrift stores. They benefit our communities. I'll leave you with this...don't judge a book by it's cover. While it is true that some storefronts look like the rinky-dink set of "Sanford and Son", vintage shops have alot of hidden treasures just waiting to be found!


Suggestions:

**Cheap Jacks

• 303 Fifth Avenue (at the northeast corner of 31st St.)
• New York, NY 10016
• http://www.cheapjacks.com/

**Meeps Vintage Fashionette

• 2104 18th Street NW
• Washington, DC 20009
• www.meepsdc.com

**eBay (just type in what you're looking for in the 'search' tab and watch as the magic unfolds)

HAPPY HUNTING!!!!