Category: Consignment Shops

Tips and Tricks for Selling on Consignment

I’ve been busy recently down-sizing and trying to get rid of excess “stuff.” (Don’t we all have too much stuff anyway?)  I found a box in my closet filled with handbags– many of which I hadn’t carried in more than a year. So…. I decided the best way to get rid of them was consignment. Especially since they were in good condition and name brand items. True, it was hard to part with my old favorite Coach bag– but since it was just hanging out in a box I decided to sell.

Getting rid of clothes and accessories has been an emotional experience at times. This box of stuff for consignment sat in my car trunk for close to a week (yikes).  Anyway, the stuff is gone now and I’m now waiting for my money!  The good news is- the place I’m using has been successful for me in the past. I had close to $100 on my account. Which means now I can shop for FREE!

Are you ready to clean out your closets filled with outdated clothes and accessories? Here are some tips to get started:

  1. Find a Specialty Store. You’ll make more money if you zone in on a specialty store for your goods. For instance, a sports equipment store will pay more for your used football pads than a general consignment shop. When I wanted to sell my stuff, I focused on a store specifically for women’s clothing and accessories to help me score a better price on my handbags. General shops are better for knick-knacks and stuff that can’t be categorized.
  2. Know What Sells. Consignment shops specifically look for stuff that sells quickly and easily. A nearly unworn pair of designer jeans or clean shoes? Perfect.  Before you take your stuff over, consider whether you’d buy the same item used or not.
  3. Clean Your Items. You’ll get more money for each of your items if they’re in good shape and freshly washed.  If you’re missing buttons, parts, laces and pieces, it’s best to donate instead. Check over your items for stains and other marks, since consignment shops will probably decline worn-looking items. (There were a couple of my things that were consignment rejects- these go to Goodwill)
  4. Read the Contract. If you decide to sell using the profit-sharing method, you’ll receive a contract. The contract gives you information about the percentage for sharing, how the items are priced, how long your items will sit on store shelves, and when you can arrive to collect your money. It’s important to know the details so you aren’t disappointed.

My Secret Thrifting Tips

Ever wonder why every time you go thrifting, you end up with a big pile of novelty items and some mom jeans? Check out my secret tips on finding your next major thrifting score.

1. Context:   It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the hideousness that engulfs the racks- you know, like the muumuus, Christmas sweaters and stretched out bicycle shorts. In a hurry to sift through it all, you might accidentally skip over your new favorite piece so try to make a day for thrifting when no one is waiting for you and you can take your time.  That crazy ’80s sweater could look hip with an edgy haircut and designer ankle boots.

2. Consider Alterations:    Don’t abandon the perfect vintage cocktail dress only because it’s a size too big. Maybe you love the color and cut of that blouse, but the sleeves are overwhelmingly puffy? For the $3 you’re probably spending, it could be worth it to visit a tailor.

3. Shop Off-Season:    Think ahead and shop for summer items in winter. You’ll find the best deals and have a better selection. Winter coats are plentiful and purchased for pennies in August. The same would go for vintage sun dresses during January.

4. Find Your Local Thrift Outlet:    Most well-established thrift store “chains” like Goodwill and Salvation Army will have outlets.  This is the magical land where all clothes are $1-$3. The ladies at the Goodwill Outlet told me their clothes only get one week at full-price store racks before they get bundled up and shipped to the outlet. My favorites include Thrift Trader and $2 Thrill— you know where I’m going with this….

5. Wear Your “Thrifting Uniform”:    Be prepared for long fitting room lines (or possibly no fitting rooms) by wearing something that is comfy and easy to try things on over. I like leggings and slip-on flats. Throw a flexible sewing tape in your bag for taking measurements if you are so inclined.

6. Don’t Confine Yourself to only the Women’s Clothing Section:   For petites, check out the kids section for a shrunken blazer look or possibly a dress you can wear as a top. Maybe head over to the men’s section where you can find oversized cardigans or a colorful necktie.  Make a necktie headband.

7. Gravitate Toward Thrift Shops That Are Off the Beaten Path:   Look for thrift stores near ritzy retirement communities and small suburban towns.  This is your best chance to find a hidden gem.

8. Get a Rapport Going With Your Cashier:   Most thrift stores don’t have a set-in-stone pricing structure.  Striking up a conversation with the cashier can’t hurt, especially if you visit on a regular basis. If the employees get to know you, they may be willing to set aside that elusive Kate Spade tote you’ve been on the hunt for.


9. Go Thrifting Off-Hours:    If you don’t thrift on a regularly, you’re just asking to miss out on stuff. Thrift stores get new stock daily, so be vigilant. Better yet, find out which days the “new” merchandise gets put out. Arrive early and be ready for the hunt.

Cheers Everyone & Happy Thrifting! Let me know how you all are doing.   -jody-

Time for Summer Retail Therapy at My Sisters Closet

Hello Everyone!  As far as I’m concerned, there’s no therapy like retail therapy. What better way to beat the heat than in an air-conditioned store, right?!

Why not unwind with a little retail therapy at My Sister’s Closet located in the UTC neighborhood of San Diego.  My co-workers came back recently from a quick lunch break with several fantastic “finds” and were kind enough to let me take some photos. Look at this really cute Juicy Couture wallet that LD scored for a mere $17.

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This wallet is so cute… why hide it in a purse??!

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Okay…but wait, there’s more… KC scored three (yes, you read that right– three!) super amazing tops for a grand total of approximately $22 out the door.  These are bargain friendly tops that can take you from workplace to wine tasting on a budget.

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Hopefully there will be something left in the store for me….  🙂

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This blue top will be so pretty on a summer day. And the fluttery coral top pictured below is perfect to wear on a hot day.  Like I said, hopefully there will be a few cute things left for me.  Cheers– and happy shopping!

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Thrift Shopping for Men… Look what $5 gets you!

Hey, check it out! I found another place where you can find quality thrift items for the man in your life.  Jeans, belts, button down shirts… all good finds and in decent condition. Better yet everything in the Thrift Trader is $5.99 or 4/$20.

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Mind you, I’ve been to the “clearance” store for this shop where everything is priced $2. Not that paying $5 is really anything to complain about!  Luckily, I was at the Ocean Beach location for Thrift Trader and only two doors down from the “clearance” store called 2Dollar Thrill.

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And, for the ladies reading this post– here is a cute $5 dress I found. It seems a little on the sheer side and a bit on the shortie side so I would likely wear a tank top under this and wear it with jeans– due to my advanced age 🙂

Cheers and Happy Saturday!  xoxo

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$9 Jeans… Fantasy turned into reality for this bargain-hunter!

I thought finding cute jeans for $9 was something like finding a unicorn on my patio. Probably not going to happen. I kept hope alive and last Saturday was my lucky day at My Sister’s Closet here in San Diego.

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Okay, so maybe these aren’t over the top glamour-jeans but for $9– I’m okay with that. My original idea was to use these to make “distressed jeans”. I had a plan to use sandpaper, razor blades, a scissors and possibly bleach to make these a little more interesting.  I’ve worn them a number of times already this week and now I’m not so sure I want to ruin a good thing.  After all– fabulous $9 jeans… like finding a unicorn!

  • My Sister’s Closet
  • 8610 Genesee Avenue #200
  • San Diego, CA 92122
  • Phone: (858) 455-0045
  • Web:  www.mysisterscloset.com

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Thrift Shopping for Men?!

Polo shirts for $10 and nice looking suits. Wow, I was shocked when I browsed thru the men’s section at My Sister’s Closet. Typically the selection for men is meager at best when I’m out and about at the thrift stores. The back section of My Sister’s Closet is totally devoted to all things menswear. I found a wall of shoes– yes, a wall of shoes!

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And the shoes were barely worn at a fraction of the cost of a new pair.  Check out these two suits. Both are great looks for the new grad interviewing or maybe someone who needs an economical style punch.  I really like the blue shirt and the patterned tie pictured on the right, below.

As far as accessories, I found a really good quality day bag and several beautiful watches. By far, the shoes were the biggest surprise “find.”  Anyone into colorful and beautiful ties will be excited to check out the selection here.

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Maybe the man in your life is more casual and maybe looking for bargains? I found an entire rack of cool clothing at 40% off.  Some of the shirts were under $9 and all were good quality and barely worn.  The light pink dress shirt pictured below would look great with a nice pair of khaki pants, jeans for a night out or even black dress pants.

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Guys– thrift shopping isn’t just for the girls!  This place rocks.

  • Well Suited – men’s clothing & accessories
  • 8610 Genesee Avenue #210
  • Costa Verde Center (across from UTC mall)
  • San Diego, CA 92122
  • Phone: (858) 455-0045
  • Web: www.shopwellsuited.com

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Marc Jacobs bag at “My Sister’s Closet” in San Diego… 2nd Time is a Charm!

What could be better than scoring a dream handbag at a bargain price? (World peace, maybe. But the handbag is pretty awesome too)

My friend LD was at the right place at the right time- My Sister’s Closet in San Diego’s UTC neighborhood– when she scored this luscious Marc by Marc Jacobs designer handbag at the fabulous price of $295.  For sure, the second time is a charm!  Here’s the story… LD was strolling through My Sister’s Closet, near closing time and in search of a pair of jeans. Like any smart shopper, she cruised by the handbags to check out the scene.  She spotted the lovely Marc by Marc Jacobs dream handbag at the counter not even out on the floor yet. (right place, right time– bravo!)  Being the smart shopper, LD knew a good deal when she saw it– and in turn scored a fabulous bag!

  • My Sister’s Closet
  • 8610 Genesee Avenue #200
  • San Diego, CA 92122
  • Phone: (858) 455-0045
  • Web: www.mysisterscloset.com

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This goes to show that by consistently “shopping” consignment shops and thrift stores you can score amazing deals.  This same handbag retails for about $428 at the local Mall.  (Wouldn’t you rather have an extra $133 in your pocket??)

Like New… previously loved and new clothes

Earlier this week after a quick round of errands I stopped by my fave consignment shop on Genesee Avenue in San Diego. I’m seriously in search of spring and summer dresses and figured I’d see if it was my lucky day.

  • Like New – a tres chic consignment boutique
  • 4425 Genesee Avenue
  • San Diego, CA 92117
  • Phone: (858) 278-1960
  • Web: www.LikeNewSanDiego.com

The racks were overflowing with cute dresses in a variety of sizes and colors. I found a flirty Jason Wu for Target dress $14.95 that I really liked– unfortunately it was a shade too small. There’s always next time, right? I also found some super amazing high heel sandals Size 8 that would be perfect with jeans $22.95. The shoes were a size too big for me. (I’m sounding like the Three Bears of Shopping– this one’s too small, this one’s too big….) Sometimes it’s the thrill of the hunt and just shopping and trying things on is one step closer to finding what I want.

I always stop by Like New when I’m in the area. The stock rotates frequently and there’s always a rack or two of sale items out front.

Right now– all I can think about is those black heels in Size 8. (I’m probably the only woman alive who wishes she wore a larger shoe size!)

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Girls From The Park Resale Shop

Need a little sunshine in your life? Maybe some retail therapy on a rough Monday afternoon? I found myself in the Point Loma area and in serious need of some retail therapy recently– on a Monday afternoon! Girls from the Park is a contemporary fashion resale boutique now located in Point Loma, California. They offer a great selection of gently used clothing, shoes and accessories by all of your favorite designers.

  • Girls From The Park Resale Shop
  • 3034 Canon Street
  • Point Loma, CA 92106
  • Phone: (619) 226-0043
  • Web: www.girlsfromthepark.com

A little about the “girls”– sounds like the shop name is a spin on the real life of the owners who grew up in the El Dorado Trailer Park near Lakeside, CA in the 1970’s. Per the store website “you can take the girl out of the park but you can’t take the park out of the girl!” I had to laugh when I read those words in a sea of pink on their website. Let me tell you– this shop was a true treat to visit. I found pretty shoes, handbags and several gorgeous dresses. A true shopping pleasure all at great prices! If you find yourself in need of some retail therapy in Point Loma– check out the Girls From The Park!! Bravo!

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Alice Alfreda – A Resale Boutique

Oh wow… I found a really cute shop earlier this week in Point Loma. I was “wandering around” aimlessly in the neighborhood when I came across Alice Alfreda— I literally ran into it while driving. (No, I didn’t actually hit the building itself but I did hit the curb- another story, another time…)

  • Alice Alfreda – a resale boutique
  • 1255-102 Rosecrans Street
  • San Diego, CA 92106
  • Phone: (619) 549-8676

As you all know, I love finding resale shops and am always on the look-out for bargains. Alice Alfreda offers a carefully edited collection of gently used and new upscale clothing, shoes and accessories. I spotted a fantastic black Kate Spade bag hanging on the wall for a mere $45– and the bag was in perfect condition! The stuff here is great! It is a smaller shop which is fine as far as I’m concerned– easier to shop. I love handbags and shoes and the selection for both was excellent. Even with a small space everything was well-organized, neat and clean. I didn’t feel like I had to “dig” to find things. Better yet– the girl minding the shop for the owner was friendly and helpful. I will definitely be back again!

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