by Kirsten Locke

Created on: May 24, 2007

Treasure hunting is the term I use when shopping for clothes through thrift and second hand stores. It's amazing what wonderful things other people give away. Perhaps an outfit received as a gift doesn't fit quite right or is the wrong color or the owner simply tires of something that they bought for themselves. Once he or she has given away their closet rejects to the local Goodwill or other charity or perhaps has sold it at reduced cost to a special resale shop, that same item will most likely find its way into the hands of someone who is fully capable of appreciating a particular style or color. And at a fabulously reduced price.

I get compliments all the time on my finds. Where did you find that?' is a frequent question asked. I love to clue them in to what may still be considered a well-kept secret by some. Along with the inappropriate gift or old outfit donated by individuals, small and large chain stores also often send their odd lots and leftover sale items to local charities as a tax write-off. There are literally hundreds of items that are new or nearly new to be had for the barest fraction of the originally charged amount. And plenty of brand names to choose from, too.

With rising gas prices, inflation and so many other costs, this style of shopping is definitely a good way to trim your budget. Even if you're financially comfortable, it still makes sense to bargain hunt when able. The money saved on clothing can easily be set aside into a savings account, college fund or could go towards that trip you've always wanted to take. Savings is savings and you don't necessarily have to sacrifice style or brand names in order to hold on to a bit more of that paycheck.

And let's not forget those who may need to buy at any sort of specialty department or shop, like for plus sizes. In these cases, thrift stores can be a godsend. Niche businesses can get away with their exorbitant prices because their customers have few options. But once a diet succeeds or someone decides that a particular outfit is out of style or just not for them anymore, off to charity these otherwise pricey items may go. To be scooped up and taken home by more frugal customers.

Admittedly, some thrift stores can be a bit dusty due to their warehouse sizes. But since most clothing is going to see the inside of a washer and dryer frequently even if bought brand new at the mall, taking home something that may need a quick trip through the laundry shouldn't be a reason for people to avoid shopping at these wonderful troves. It's amazing to me that some people who are perfectly willing to pay a gymnasium to sweat themselves to fitness may balk at the thought of rummaging through a charity outlet or other second hand store because they're afraid to get their hands dirty'. Don't be afraid to try new things and visit new places. You never know what fun, fabulous item or items you may find once you open yourself to the hunt within a charity outlet or resale store.

The old stigma that used to surround second hand shops is mostly gone now. Not only is shopping at these treasure houses a sound monetary investment, but it has become downright trendy over the last decade or more. Upwardly mobile and well-to-do types don't get where they by hard work alone. They get there with their smarts in regard to how they distribute those hard-won earnings. And anyone, no matter your financial level, can benefit from exploring these incredible clothing vaults of value.

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