Consignment Clothes for Baby and Me
I’ll never forget buying the first outfit for my son. It was 2007, and we had just left the OB’s office. I was having a boy. I couldn’t believe it. I had planned to reveal the gender of our baby to my family by having them open a package containing either a “boy” outfit or a “girl” outfit. My husband and I, both a little shell-shocked after our appointment, walked into Janie and Jack. I picked out a cute little whale outfit complete with matching shoes, socks, and hat. When I handed over my credit card I didn’t think twice about the fact that this outfit for a baby was costing over eighty dollars.
Now, three years later, I cringe at that thought. What was I thinking??? Did I not realize that the $80 outfit would be worn for three minutes and then get pooped and thrown up on? Did I not realize that at a consignment store I could get the same outfit for $5??? Well, I didn’t know then, but I do now. In fact, I’m the first to admit it – 90% of my kids’ clothes are now hand-me-downs or come from consignment shops. I admittedly got into the consignment gig a little late with my first kid, but now that I’ve been let in on the secret, there ain’t no going back. I get amazing brand-name and sometimes kiddie “designer” clothes, at MAJOR discounts, often with the tags still on. Fo ‘real.
I’m of the mind-set that a picture is worth 1,000 words. So here are a few photos of things I picked up at consignment shops for my boys.
I mean, that’s a lot of stuff, right? I got 26 items in this shopping trip and averaged $3.50 a piece! Brands included Ralph Lauren, Gymboree, Baby Gap and Petit Ami.
There’s another store I hit up to get designer duds for my dudes. You know, for the special days when I want my kid to be the cutest (read: preppiest) kid on the playground. Check out the Strasburg linen pants and Polo Shirt and Sweater Vest I got for my big kid. I mean, doesn’t this just scream Easter? I got this whole outfit and 10 other items for about $15 a piece. Pricey for consignment, I ‘spose, but those linen pants retail for about $85. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy when I save that kind of money!
But, recently when I was at a playdate, the conversation changed from consignment stores for kids to consignment clothes for women. Turns out, most of my gal-pals don’t buy their clothes at consignment shops. Sure, hand-me downs are good enough for the kids, but we are less sure when it comes to ourselves. Is it because we wear them longer? Are more conscience of trends? Are afraid used clothes will smell like moth balls? All of these things are concerns I had regarding consignment shopping for myself.
It was at this play date that one of my friends fessed up. She recently purchased a pair of re-sale designer jeans. In perfect condition, at a fraction of what she would pay if she went to the mall. Hmmm… It kinda got me thinking. So I made the rounds, and I’ve now purchased Christian Dior heels for less than $20, multiple pairs of designer jeans for less than $50 each, and an entire Spring wardrobe! Yep, I’m a convert.
So even after my major successes, some of you are probably thinking that they won’t have your size, you require plus-sized or petite clothes, have long legs, big chest… whatever. Well, folks, if you can find it at a retail store, you can find it consignment!
Not sure where to start? For consignment newbies, I’d suggest hitting up a store first before entering the vast world of consignment sales. Google stores and sales in your area. Get your feet wet, and you’ll never go back.
Happy Shopping… and Saving!
katie
5
tags: consignment sales, consignment stores, kids clothing, re-sale, used clothes, women's clothing
We live off hand-me-downs, consignment stores, and even a few thrift stores. With six of us to clothe, we need all the help we can saving money. Great tips, Katie!
I LOVE consignment sales! Just Between Friends is a pretty awesome nationwide sale that happens a couple times a year. I started selling Logan’s clothes at it, just to turn around and buy new ones for him. I’ll have to look into consignment sales for myself…super cute coat!
You totally should. I had no idea how much money I could save and what amazing clothes were available for women at consignment stores!
Pingback: do something crafty #35
$80 dollars??? Oh my! I love consignment sales for the kids but rarely buy my own clothes through them.