How to Shop Consignment Like A Pro
Trying to figure out how to shop consignment but aren't sure where to start? There are a few tips I use when I'm out consignment shopping that make it a whole lot easier. I'm a huge vintage and consignment fashion fan but, admittedly, it takes some patience. Affordable, classic style doesn't always mean buying brand new. It also means paying attention to mixing in chic finds (a la consignment fashion hunting) on a budget.
How to Shop Consignment Like a Pro
Moving to Toronto has gave me a fresh perspective on affordable consignment shopping. There were consignment shops everywhere. And when we first moved there, I didn't have a work visa, so I found myself wandering the shops. I didn't always buy but it did teach me to be resourceful when shopping. Unless you have an unlimited budget, which most of us don't, you have to think smart before you buy. Consignment and vintage shopping can be the perfect way to do that. I look around and try to shop on a mental list for affordable classic pieces & then mix a little impulse vintage & consignment buying here and there.
1 | Budget & Negotiate at Consignment Marts or Flea Markets
When shopping consignment or vintage, it's about the art of negotiation. This is especially true for vintage flea markets. Usually, the consigner is hoping to make the sale, therefore you can wiggle around with the price. Example, this black sequin top was at a vintage flea market at a price of $50. I negotiated down to $30 and off I went. Have a budget in mind and be prepared to negotiate what is reasonable for you. If it's not, let it pass, and come back at the end of the day. Chances are, if it's still available, they'll give you the price you wanted.
2 | Look for & Buy High Quality at Consignment Shops
When I am shopping consignment, I am always on the lookout for brands that are higher in quality. I do not shop consignment to buy pieces that I can find at Forever 21 or H&M (ie: fast fashion). I shop consignment to weed out the low quality from the high quality & vintage. And you should too. I would recommend only purchasing items that look and feel as though they have been well taken care of. If you shop at the right consignment stores (recommendations below...) you will have a good amount of luck with high quality consignment shopping.
3 | Visualize it In Your Closet Before You Buy
The thing about consignment shopping is it's always there and always in season. So there's no rush to buy. Unless it's that perfect piece for you (the right cut, color, and style) then think about how you can integrate it with the clothing you already own. Remember, there will always be more than one perfect piece of clothing for you.
Final Tips || The Do's and Don'ts of Shopping Consignment & Vintage Fashion
Do | thrift shopping tips to remember...do have patience, take your time, think about how you're going to integrate that vintage piece into your already developed wardrobe, be open to having a piece tailored if you love it, be willing to haggle (up or down $10 +) if you love it, check for broken buttons, holes, etc.
Do | Consignment shop for denim, sweaters, and vintage jewelry. These are always worth it!
Don't | get discouraged if you don't find something on the first (or second!) try, or if they don't have it in your size (see my notes above), be afraid to negotiate if you think the piece is worth it!
My Favorite Vintage Fashion & Consignment Shops
San Diego & L.A.
- My Sister's Closet (consignment) |
- Long Beach Flea Market (worth the drive to Long Beach!) |
- Ms Vintage Clothing, heavy on the fab fashion from 50's-70's |
- Bad Madge, great accessories, clothing & home finds
Toronto
- Siberia Vintage (new!) for simple, straight-forward minimal pieces |
- 69 Vintage, for delightful jackets & dresses |
- Chosen Vintage, for men & women alike
Palm Springs
- Deja Vu, for all things chic from the 40's to 90's
Portland
I hope these thrift shopping tips I've learned along the way will help you the next time you're out on the hunt. For more affordable fashion & style finds, check out my post on my favorite jeans & tees. What are your thoughts on vintage & consignment shopping? Any favorite shops you have in other cities? I'd love to hear them! Leave a comment on my blog. I read & love responding to them all!