Three Reasons to Consider Consignment Shopping

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I never thought twice about the objects I brought into my  home or life, and barely considered consignment shopping. However, after reading about creating a sustainable capsule wardrobe, it’s as if I’m a completely different consumer. I donated and purged these 6 types of clothes, and began cultivating my own personal style.

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As soon as I focused my personal style, I realized there were a few staple items I had always wanted, but never could bring myself to purchase. The two items were a black leather jacket and brown leather booties. I didn’t care so much on the brand, but I wanted them both to be quality. Both items could be dressed up or dressed down and were a bit edgy, and very versatile pieces. I first began my hunt briefly at Macy’s. I soon realized to buy a quality leather jacket new I would be spending at least 400$. This struck me as a huge investment for an item of clothing. If I really wanted it, I’d have to grapple with the cost.

1. Consignment for Higher Quality Staple Pieces

But then, consignment shopping crossed my mind, and I found Poshmark, an online consignment store! What’s great about Poshmark is that you can send back your item if you deem it not what was described and you rate the sellers based on your experience. (Just in case you are wondering, Poshmark did not tell me to say this and doesn’t even know this blog exists.)

You also can propose a price to the seller or bundle items together to save on shipping. I have yet to be disappointed on an item I have purchased. After a couple months of searching through different leather jackets and booties, all from the comfort of my own home, I struck a deal with two different sellers and scored a great leather jacket, and rustic/edgy brown leather booties. I was ecstatic about the quality of the products I bought, because it was quite honestly above the quality I could afford new.

Price Per Wear

Among capsule wardrobe connoisseurs the term “price per wear” takes into account how many times you actually wear an item vs. just the original price. For example, if I buy running shoes for 100$ and I wear them 100 times during the year, the cost per wear is relatively low since I wore them so much. However, if I buy a pair of black heels for 100$, but only wear them 10 times a year, the price per wear is much higher. I wear that leather jacket and those brown booties at least once a week if not more in the Fall, and I will have them probably for the next 10 years. As a result, the price per wear is extremely low. They both were an excellent investment and great consignment shopping purchase. You can also read more about investment pieces and what I learned from a personal stylist here. 

2.Consignment Shopping for Weddings

My other case for consignment shopping comes with the dreaded purchases that go with being a bridesmaid. According to wedding channel.com, on average bridesmaids pay 1,695$ in wedding related expenses including travel, dresses, accessories, shoes etc. That seems like an astronomical price, but expenses do add up, especially when there is travel involved.

I was excited to find out for my friend’s wedding last summer that I could pick any type of dress in the color Sangria. I immediately thought of consignment shopping online. Bridesmaid dresses online are of plenty! Nobody finds a time to wear it again, nobody. Luckily, I am a pretty average size, and so I purchased a knee-length strapless dress in Sangria. I made sure to ask the bride, and checked the color with the local store branch just to make sure it matched. I probably saved about 120$ and then after the wedding I sold it again, basically striking even on my initial purchase. Obviously, I was extremely lucky to have a bride that was so chill about the dresses and my purchases, but  more and more brides are offering style choices to their bridesmaids. I certainly wish I would have done this courtesy with my wedding. Sorry ladies!

For major events like weddings, where you’re not a bridesmaid, consider consignment shopping as well. You might be able to purchase a much higher quality piece, and you’ll only be wearing the dress maybe once or twice a year. Buying from consignment would lower the price per wear, especially on an item that will be worn infrequently.

3.Consignment Shopping for Kids

My last case for consignment shopping involves all the “stuff” that comes with babies. Buying consignment for children’s clothing and toys will save you money. I luckily have been extremely blessed to receive a lot of “hand-me-downs” from family members for my 2 year old daughter. We have not bought a single item of clothing (except cloth diapers and underwear.) We’re sitting on a bit of privilege here, but we also have only bought her one toy and it was from a consignment store. Shocking, I know! If you entered our home you would notice plenty of toys given to her as “hand-me-downs,” borrowed, or new from family members, but she doesn’t need anymore. This way, our family can be grateful for the gifts that are given to her. She uses and loves what family members have provided, and that balance has been just right.

When we do have to buy clothes for her though, I will do consignment shopping. You could buy a whole lot of clothes for the price of a couple pairs of jeans new. I also like the idea of paying another mom for clothing that her children have grown out of. Try to spend the money saved on experiences, rather than more stuff. It just is fiscally responsible.

Consignment Shopping for Ethical Consumption

Not only will consignment shopping help you save money and time, it’s also a form of ethical consumption. In the last couple years I’ve changed my perspective on buying. When I buy something new I’m stating to the company and the world that I need more of this product. I’m voting by purchasing it. I mean look around, do we really need more stuff? Don’t fall for “sales” or cheaply made clothing that were probably manufactured unethically. You can completely bypass participation in consumer schemes or the unethical practices of cheaply made clothing. It’s really a win for your finances, time, and conscious.

Final Words

 As mentioned, buying consignment for staple items in your wardrobe could save you hundreds and also provide you higher quality. Buying kids consignment clothing and toys saves money. These savings could then be invested into a college savings fund for even more growth potential. Consignment shopping offers some freedom in price range and with online consignment so convenient, you don’t even have to leave your house. You will save money, time and be ethically consuming.

Also, If you haven’t committed to a capsule wardrobe, it’s time! It simplifies your choices, defines your personal style, and saves you time and money. I just recently read Natalia’s of Marmag Creation’s e-book on how to create a capsule wardrobe and found it to be the most insightful piece I’ve read thus far on my minimalism in fashion journey. Honestly, if you can focus your style, only choose basics, and simplify your wardrobe you’ll save time and money in the long run. Check out Natalia’s How to Start a Capsule Wardrobe Based on Your Budget and Lifestyle e-book to get started simplifying your closet.

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How have you embraced ethical fashion practices?

Author

-Maria Halcumb
B.A. in Secondary Education, English, and Physical Education
M.A. Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction and Reading Specialist