Let’s face it, we are college kids; college kids on tight budgets. Sometimes we have to give and take a little when it comes to learning how to spend our money wisely and occasionally that means passing up a dinner out with friends or that new Michael Kors watch. But here’s the amazing thing about DC- we are in a hub of consignment stores and thrift shops that can save you time, money, and allow you to spice up your wardrobe. From designer brands, to unique vintage pieces, thrifting gives you a chance to shop till you drop, but not make a huge dent in your wallet. For those of you who love to thrift, or who are new to the area and want to find local stores, we have pulled together a list of a few of the most well known places to thrift away. There’s only one question: Hey Macklemore, can we go thrift shopping?
1. Buffalo Exchange
With locations on 14th street, and on M street in Georgetown, Buffalo Exchange is one of the most well known old and new stores in the DC area. Unbeatable prices, awesome brand names, and items ranging from jewelry to vintage shoes, to sunglasses, this store has it all. Probably one of the coolest parts of this store is that they switch out the clothes consistently according to the season, so chances are if you go back each month, you will always find new things. Oh yeah, and it’s a great place to sell some of your old clothes you no longer want. You can choose to whether sell or donate your clothes for store credit or for cash.
2. Junction
Right on U Street, Junction is perhaps one of the greatest gems of DC. With clothing from the 1930’s to today, this vintage resale boutique has everything from casual everyday-wear, to glamorous red carpet looks. All articles of clothing, accessories, shoes, gifts and art are carefully selected to reflect the latest trends, and to provide you with the most unique statement making pieces for your personal collection. What’s so awesome is that they restock every week, so you will never find the same thing twice.
3. Martha’s Table
As a part of the larger Martha’s Table community initiative, this thrift shop offers daily changing selections of clothes, shoes, and accessories. Usually, you can find brands like Lucky, 7 for All Mankind, and True Religion, and every clothing item is priced at $8 or less. The unique thing about this thrift shop is that when you purchase items, you are basically donating to the Martha’s Table program that focuses on providing free clothing, shoes, and furniture to individuals and families in crisis.
4. Second Time Around
If you’re already in Georgetown checking out Buffalo Exchange, you might as well stop on in at Second Time Around. Also residing on M Street, this store advertises itself as a consignment store, not a thrift store. Basically, Second Time Around prides itself on bringing in upscale brands, that have been lightly worn, and reselling them at a much lower price. Carrying brands from Marc Jacobs, to Dolce & Gabanna, to Ralph Lauren, Second Time Around offers only the latest and greatest at a lower cost (which is great for us!). So, if you’re looking for nicer clothes but can’t afford the newest collection of Versace, try checking out this store and maybe you’ll find the same brands, for half the price!
5. Frugalista
A new take on thrifting, Frugalista is both and online and physical consignment store that gives you the opportunity to sell AND buy. Basically, the store buys anything as long as it’s good quality and brand name, men’s or women’s. They then select the best clothes and post them for sale in the online store, which makes shopping for you SO easy, and saves so much time. With one of their brick and mortar stores located not far from the Columbia Heights metro, you can stop in and drop off a bag of clothes that you no longer wear, and then they will take the time to inspect each item. For the clothes they are able to buy from you, you get 50% of the sale value in store credit that you can use online or in store!
6. Meeps
If you’re exploring around Adams Morgan and taking a look at the many stores the area has to offer, you definitely will want to consider stopping in at Meeps. For over 20 years, the store has been listed as one of the “Best of DC” and for those many years has remained the best store for the unique and maybe a little unusual. With casual vintage from the 1960’s to today, the store offers eclectic pieces and an extensive costume section you wont want to miss.
7. Secondi
Conveniently located in DuPont Circle, Secondi is a bright, colorful consignment shop that offers everything a girl could want. With clothes as good as new, Secondi brings in trendy items as well as vintage steals. There’s something for everyone, whether you are a Chanel lover, a working college student who needs something to wear for your internship, or a trendsetter. Also, the store offers seasonal sales in February and August, at which times designer labels will be at the lowest prices ever. If you haven’t gone yet, now is definitely the time to check it out!