It’s that time again: “out with the old and in with the new!” Spring cleaning time! With springtime creeping on us, eagerness erupts at the thought of hibernating those oversize grandma sweaters. As the sun slowly but surely breaks through the clouds, we are safe from any threat of 7 inches of snow.
Since the beginning of springtime provokes changes or fresh beginnings, what better way to start fresh than with a new wardrobe? Of course we are college students and shopping for clothes is no longer a top priority since our money is focused on the many expenses that come with our education.
Well, there is a solution to defeat this problem. Four words: thrift stores and consignment shop.
Fashion can be seen as a revolving door; one day a style is in, the next day it’s out and a few days later it’s probably in again. Thrift stores and consignment shops make available the opportunity to re-invent those outdated trends and possibly create a new trend. Being a college student on a tight budget with an obsession to shopping, thrift stores and consignment shops have saved my life. The convenience of thrift stores and consignment shops makes it easy to shop for less and still look great.
One of the excellent things about Philly is that there are tons of thrift stores just waiting for you to discover and explore. So right now you are probably thinking, “I’m not from Philly and I don’t know where to find those fantastic thrift stores that Philly has to offer.” Well, being a native-born Philly girl, I have found some pretty cool thrift stores around the city. I’m willing to share a few of my favorite spots only under one condition: you must check them out.
If you are a business major and love to dress for success but want to add a hint of fun, then the consignment shop “Sophisticated Seconds” is for you. It’s located on 2019 Sansom Street in Center City. With discounted faux vintage Chanel bags, Emporio Armani suits and Gucci bags to name a few, you are able t to splurge and save at the same time. Catering to all ages, owner Joanne Kniele, mentions that the store is for those who are “looking to save money who appreciate the decent things”.
If you are the shopper who loves a sale on items that are already fairly low-priced, then you
will love “Second Time Around.” This gem is located on 1728 Chestnut Street, not too far from the famous consignment shop “Buffalo Exchange”. The store contains clothes that appeal to women of all ages and mind-blowing sales. This is a great store to sell clothes or even pick up something retro and trendy.
Lastly, one of my personal favorite thrift stores is “Philly Aids Thrift,” located on 514 Bainbridge, right off of 5th and South Street. My favorite thing about the store is its commitment to helping the AIDS epidemic by giving proceeds to AIDS organizations in Philadelphia. If you have 5 dollars in your pocket and want to pick up a cool t-shirt or find a cute red authentic shoulder strap Coach bag for 13 dollars, then this is definitely the store for you.
As I mentioned before, Philadelphia offers endless thrift stores and consignment shops that appeal to the many great stylish women that grace the Earth, and the perfect time to go search for them is now. Just think: this will give you the perfect excuse to shed those winter pounds and explore the great “city of brotherly love and sisterly affection.”