A Shopaholic’s Guide To Inexpensive Indulging

I have to admit, I’m a shopaholic. I love me some retail therapy and I’m a sucker for good sales. I just can’t say no. I get asked all the time about where I shop and how I always have ‘new clothes’ but you look inside my closet and it’s not as packed as you’d expect. Would you believe me if I told you that I actually buy name brand clothes at prices starting as low as 4 bucks, and it’s not just at thrift stores like Goodwill?

My secret? Resale shopping. It all started when I was a buyer at a resale shop called Clothes Mentor where I even helped with the store’s grand opening. Buyers are trained to know current trends and styles, how to check for authentication and condition, and are required to know what’s flying off the racks.

So guess what I started doing? Buying and selling almost all my stuff after I got enough use out of them. The only pieces I usually hold on to are basics that go with everything. This is a great way to keep a fresh, super unique wardrobe without hurting your pocket. What I usually do is get a pile of goodies together and sell my stuff while I shop. Sometimes they take so much that I spend nothing out of pocket, leaving me guilt-free.

The best part is that for someone who gets bored of their wardrobe quickly, resale shops always have new stuff in. This ensures that I’m spending less, getting the variety I want, and recycling! It’s the perfect combination. You’ll also be reducing your direct fast fashion purchases which means less waste. Second-hand shopping is sustainable, overall helping the environment and decreasing the need for more production. The cherry on top is you’ll also be supporting small, local businesses.

I’ve had amazing luck finding designer bags, vintage pieces, and items that are brand new with tags still attached from brands like PrettyLittleThing, Kate Spade, Lululemon, Tory Burch, Zara, Fashion Nova, Free People, and occasionally high end brands like Louis Vuitton, all for up to 60% less expensive.

Here are my favorite Local resale stores:

Clothes Mentor:

This store is dedicated to women (sorry guys). This is where I go for professional attire. They also buy and sell maternity clothes because lets be real, you’re not likely to keep most of the clothes from your pregnancy so who wants to buy full price maternity? I love Clothes Mentor because they really show their understanding for all types of women, meaning that they embrace curves, pregnancy, petite women and everything in between.

I’ve found so many fabulous summer dresses, outfits for my nights out, jeans that hug my petite body perfectly, and athletic wear. I’ve also purchased vintage Dooney & Bourke bags and new Kate Spade and Tory Burch bags & wallets as well. Clothes Mentor also does different sales events throughout the year.

Buffalo Exchange:

When I hear Buffalo Exchange, I think boho, vintage, and festival-wear. Planning on heading to a festival or need cultural pieces? Looking for awesome vintage Levi’s or band tees? This is the place for you. Buffalo Exchange buys and sells men and women items. I love Buffalo Exchange, it has a wide variety of styles and unique piece so I’m always stopping in!

I’ve gone in about three times this months (no shame). A couple of things I’ve scored recently are vintage Levi’s ($15-$17), PrettyLittleThing pants that I saw online for $28 ($5, seen below), simple Zara tee ($9, seen below), and a brand new Forever 21 summer dress with tags still attached, originally $25 ($12). I also bought a Tory Burch cross body that’s originally around $400, for only $80.

Plato’s Closet:

I started shopping at Plato’s when I was in high school but never really sold to them. Their focus is really around ages 15 and up. They aim to bring high schoolers and college goers the trendiest styles for kick ass prices. They really know how to price their stuff and they have a wide variety of styles. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found brand new pieces with original tags at Plato’s! They usually have the best price points for their clothes with shirts starting at about $4. This month I saw Gymshark and Lululemon leggings around $17! Plato’s Closet is my go-to for workout clothes. The photos below were taken at the Scottsdale location.

There are multiple locations in Arizona, but I usually go to the Paradise Valley or Scottsdale location and the Arrowhead location occasionally. Plato’s Closet also always has sales and events. They’ll do Athletic-wear events, 90% off events, and seasonal preview events. This is also a resale shop that buys and sells both men & women clothing, shoes, and accessories. Now instead of your man complaining about you taking forever, they can shop, too. 

urban Exchange:

For my people that love designer but can’t afford bags and shoes at regular prices, you have to look here! They always get in both vintage and new Gucci, Chanel, Prada, YSL, Louis Vuitton, etc. and also buy brands like Tory Burch and Kate Spade. Urban Exchange also buys high end jewelry like Tiffany & Co. and they are trained to authenticate the pieces they buy and sell. From shoes to bags to clothes, Urban Exchange is a designer hotspot. I recently bought two Tom Ford Soleil Blanc shimmer body oils here for $50!

Tips for buying and selling:

• Consistency is key when searching for hidden gems. Remember, things fly off the shelves all day, every day!
• Take your time! You’ll find more when you really dig around.
• When selling, consider looking at their social media or asking what things they are in need of.
• You’re more likely to have a successful offer when you sell great condition items, current styles or timeless vintage, and ultimately just things that someone else would purchase.
• Keep in mind that they are trained buyers and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification, especially when selling!
• Ask what they are pricing your items at and what you’ll receive in return. (Example: they price your item at $11 and you receive a percent of that, usually 25%-50%. Each store is different.)
• Avoid taking in items that are stained, pilling, ripped, out of style, and not freshly laundered. 
• Resale items are pre-shrunken for you thanks to the previous owner. So, if it fits like a glove, chances are, it’ll stay that way. 

Resale shops are designed to recycle amazing items at a fraction of the original price. Instead of letting stuff sit in the closet gathering dust, sell it! You’ll get to guiltlessly shop. There are plenty of resale and consignment shops in Arizona, but these are the ones I have the best luck at. My best advice is to be patient and openminded when shopping, this is how you’ll find the gems! For most resale shops, I recommend following their Instagram for sales, events, and outfit ideas. They also post new items they get in and you can call to put things on hold that catch your eye, it comes in handy. Let me know what you guys score!

Happy indulging!