Every year when I have to pack to come home from school, I enter into a severe state of panic. There is never a hope to stuff all of my sweaters, blouses, and jackets into suitcases to come home. Some clothes are left in Pittsburgh, some are shipped home via UPS and a select few venture home with me in my suitcase. Of course, I have clothes at home anxiously awaiting my arrival as well. It’s safe to say that most college students have way more clothes than they wear, and way more than they would ever need.
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I recently decided it was time to do something about the extra stuff that was cluttering up my closet (and my life). I tried my hand at consignment and would really recommend it. Although store policies vary immensely here is the basic idea:
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-You take clothes to a consignment store
-An employee will sort through the clothes, take which ones she thinks will sell, and will price them for you (you can offer input)
-The clothes will be put on the floor for a set period of time, often around 2 months
-If any of your pieces are sold, you earn a percentage of the cost, usually around 40%-50%
-You come pick up the pieces that don’t sell, or often the store will donate them to charity if you don’t want to come get them.
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It was hard at first to sort through my clothes. Getting rid of clothing is never an easy thing to do, but it was helpful to keep in mind that there are lots of people out there that will actually put these clothes to use. If there are pieces that you’re ready to part with but that aren’t super trendy or modern, donating them to charity is a perfect option. Once you sell or donate your clothes, you won’t miss them.Â
There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re consigning:
– Stores are looking for unique and trendy pieces. While some old t-shirts may be special to you, chances are other shoppers won’t be interested in old and ordinary pieces
-At the same time, there’s no harm in taking a few extra pieces you’re not sure about to the store for the employees to select from. She will just give them back to you if she’s not interested. You might be surprised with her choices!
-Make your clothes look at beautiful as possible. Don’t attempt to sell pieces that are stained, creased or missing a button.
-Most consignment stores operate seasonally. Call ahead and see which seasons they are currently looking for. Even if you have cute summer pieces, most stores won’t accept them in winter.
-Stores appreciate designer labels but they are NOT everything. Take interesting and fun pieces no matter the brand.
-Don’t forget about accessories!
Check out this URL for consignment stores in the Pittsburgh AreaÂ