Reduce, Reuse and Restyle

Sometimes shopping in the malls - the same old stores over and over - can get mundane.  You basically know what you're getting yourself into, and know that whatever you find, there's going to be about a hundred other women wearing the exact same thing all around town.

Those are a few of the reasons I've developed a love for shopping the many resale shops in the area.  For one, you never know what you're going to find.  It's like an adventure.  You could go back a month later or even only a week and find completely different merchandise (unlike retail stores, which get their inventory in waves, weeks apart at a time).

Second, there's only one of everything.  You will be the only one wearing it.  Nobody can outshine you in it - or copy your look.  And, let's not overlook, the prices.  The clothes at resale shops (at least the ones I love) are a fraction of the cost of what you'd find in retail stores.

BCBG Max Azaria dress and Banana Republic handbag;
Back on the Rack, Brookfield

These stores also have quality items.  They don't accept anything torn or stained, outdated, or out of season.  You can find great brand items that are like new (or in some cases, still have the original tags attached).  There are downsides, though.  Like when you find an awesome piece only to find it doesn't fit.  Note: if it's too big and you love it, get it tailored.  If too small, I guess you're out of luck.  Also, all the resale shops I patronize are final sale.  You'd better bring a friend along for a second opinion to avoid the dreaded - but often reality - of loving something in the fitting room but hating it at home.

And while we're on the subject of resale, Ebay is also a great source for adding to a wardrobe.  It can also be more narrowed down to what you're looking for.  Select a specific brand, size, or category such as dresses or blazers.  I've found some great items on this site at great prices.  Again, however, most purchases are not returnable.

So if you're bored with the current trends found at your local mall, try a resale shop on for size.  You might find that they fit perfectly with your wardrobe (and your wallet).

Savvy Seconds - Waukesha, WI

Where to shop:
Back on the Rack - 13870 W. Greenfield Ave., Brookfield, WI
Savvy Seconds - N4W22496 Bluemound Rd., Waukesha, WI
The Wooden Hanger - 169 Main St., Pewaukee, WI