Thrifty can be spiffy
There is no shame in wearing used clothing or decorating your home with thrift store finds. Successful bargain hunters take pride in sporting a dress that was a steal or displaying a desk that looks like a million bucks but cost a few bucks and a can of spray paint.
Students of all ages will be shopping for new outfits to wear to school and many will be happy with “new to them” items from thrift stores. For less than the price of a pair of designer jeans, they can purchase an entire back-to-school wardrobe.
I spoke with Christine Riddell, store manager of Value Village in Ajax, who told me that a student could be outfitted with everything from tops and jeans to jackets, shoes and boots for under $100. There are plenty of brand name items among the bargains in the children’s section where 98.5 per cent of all clothes are priced at $7.99 or less. There are also gently used backpacks, binders and other school supplies available at thrift store prices as well as brand-name purses and unique fashion accessories.
Christine also mentioned the incredible deals on sports equipment. The selection at her store includes everything from cleats, shin pads and shoulder pads to skates and karate uniforms.
The store manager explained that there are two types of thrift store shoppers – the bargain seekers and the treasure hunters. The treasures include designer fashions tucked away on the racks as well as unique vintage threads, housed in their own special section.
Home décor, furniture and collectables satisfy both breeds of shoppers. Among the home décor items that Christine promoted were curtains. She says the selection is impressive and very inexpensive.
Not only are you saving money on whatever you purchase at a thrift store, you are saving the environment by reusing items as well as supporting a worthy charity. Value Village pays the Canadian Diabetes Association by the pound for all items, whether they come to the store in one of their “Clothesline” trucks or are donated at the store. Items that don’t make it to the sales floor are shipped to developing countries. Other thrift stores have their beneficiaries as well.
It’s been a few weeks since I’ve toured my local Value Village. Just as Christine advises, I go with an open mind and often leave with a brag-worthy find. She says that’s what gets customers hooked. I feel the tug. Guess she’s right.
Note: On August 24 and 25, save 50 per cent on clothing, shoes, bed and bath and accessories at Value Village. Join the Super Savers Club for free and receive additional discounts.
