Frugality is the New Black
Usually I keep my mouth shut about this. But earlier this week, while shopping at an off-price overstock outlet store, a woman behind me in the checkout line raved about my coat. I turned to her and admitted that it came from the consignment shop down the street. "It was new with tags," I said in a low confessional tone, "and it retailed for $375 and..." here I paused for dramatic effect, "I got it for $59."
Why am I baring my bargain-hunting soul to a complete stranger? Because after years of being unfashionable and déclassé, frugality is finally back in style.
I got over my "ewww...other people's clothing!" squeamishness years ago, after hearing a National Public Radio interview with a young woman - the scion of a famous family whose surname graced a chain of major department stores in the 1950s and 60s. Although the family's fortunes had reversed, she'd been left with a taste for the finer things in life and had learned that by buying second-hand, she could obtain high quality, well-made goods at an affordable price.
That radio interview changed my outlook. I became a much smarter consumer and started buying previously owned items wherever I could. And the savings I've reaped over the years have been incredible. Here's one example: In my family room is a fairly new armoire I picked up at an estate sale for $500, intending to use it as an entertainment center to hide my TV. When I looked up the manufacturer's website online, it turned out to be worth over $10,000.
I'll never know the circumstances that forced the original owners to give up the armoire or the designer coat, and I suspect that in this economy more items like this will surface. These people needed the cash instead of the stuff, I could afford the asking price, and it was a win-win situation.
Recently, I started doing radio commentaries for a nationally syndicated women's issues show called 51% - The Women's Perspective, produced by public radio station WAMC. And in a strange example of my life coming full circle, this week's show features a 5-minute piece I did on frugality, and why I shop second-hand when I can.
Maybe someone listening will take home the same message that I took to heart all those years ago - that there's no shame in spending your money wisely and enjoying what someone else previously enjoyed. Maybe you'll give the show a listen. And maybe that someone who embraces a whole new outlook on second-hand shopping might be you.
If so, I'll see you at the consignment shop.
Hear more: Linda's frugality commentary on 51% - The Women's Perspective
Comments
I have found men’s dinner jackets for $6 (some thrift shops have days when items are 50% off). I’ve found dress shirts, sweaters, slacks and other items–some brand new in the original wrapping. Even if used they are usually very “lightly” used. It is FUN getting a bargain and it helps the thrift shop to have their items purchased.
I have been doing this for years, having learned from my Mom..and go to the thirft stores and or consignment shops in the higher end neighborhoods..talk about bargins.
I have long sought my evening wear at second hand shops. However, I have found that Ebay is also a great resource for designer clothing at affordable prices.