Consignment stores – just what are they? Consignment stores are shops that typically sell local second-hand, gently worn, pre-owned or, now, the newest craze to call them, “pre-loved” items. Whatever you want to call them, with some time on your hands or it’s a rainy day on the beach, you can most likely find name brand clothing and other items at a reasonable price, that might normally be a little expensive on your pocketbook.
You might have some reservations about shopping at a consignment shop, but personally in this economy, I can double my wardrobe for half, or more, of what I would spend normally. I have purchased a lot of high-quality clothing and accessories and received so many compliments when I wear them. I’ve also found some beautiful one of a kind items for my cabin, that I would not have been able to afford otherwise! I love to shop locally, but when I’m out of town, my favorite thing to do is to seek out local consignment shops!
Reasons You Should Shop Consignment
- Excellent Prices – Since all the items are pre-loved, they are priced reasonably and are affordable for most people. Who doesn’t love large discounts and deals on brand name items? That’s the best part of a consignment shop, they offer excellent prices on clothing, bags, shoes, accessories, and many other items.
- Brand Name Items – Consignment shops are the best source for brand name items for those that cannot normally afford to buy brand names. Each piece can feel very special and uniquely your own.
- Quality Items – Each shop carefully inspects every item that comes into their store to check for quality to ensure their shoppers get the highest quality pieces at a reasonable price. They will only display items that are gently used so you can be assured you’ll find great quality.
- New and One of a Kind Finds Daily – Since all items are brought to them by individuals and they don’t mass produce their items, you might find one item that is your size ONLY, so you will be the only one wearing that item and you won’t find someone at a party that happens to be wearing the same outfit.
- Good for the Environment – Buying pre-loved items helps prevent clothing and other items from going to the landfill and giving them a new lease on life. With only 15% of consumer textiles being recycled and the remaining 85% ending up in landfills or incinerated, buying second-hand can significantly reduce waste and contribute to a cleaner planet.
- Helping Local Business – If you would like to make a difference, shopping local to help contribute to their business is the first step.
Helpful Hints and Ideas
- Know what brands you like and most fit into your lifestyle so you can search for those items.
- It’s way less crowded during the week if you have time to go then. There’s also more to choose from as all the good stuff tends to disappear on the weekends.
- Since you’ll most likely be trying a lot of items on, be sure to dress comfortably in clothes that are easy on and off. For example, wear slip on shoes so you don’t have to continually tie or buckle your shoes. Additionally, know what size you’re looking for, but remember that different brand names can fit differently.
- Check out what’s in your closet before you shop. That way, you can look for that perfect blouse or sweater that you’ve been looking for to go with those jeans or slacks you already have.
Where to Shop
While in Panama City Beach, be sure to visit these great consignment shops:
Save the Closet was founded in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael. This place is wonderful and, because they serve their community at home, I thought it was worth a trip to help with the cause. Their primary source of funding and revenue is from the sales in Panama City Beach, another reason why I wanted to check it out. The items they had varied from designer clothes to vintage and I also found a few unique items that I had to take home with me. I’m so glad that I drove to PCB because, otherwise, I would have needed to have a checked bag! While there, I learned that their sales enables them to provide clothing to entire communities for FREE! To date, they’ve provided nice FREE clothing to over 26,000 people in 6 states! Please be sure to check this place out!
Ragtime Consignment Boutique was a little hidden gem and I’m so happy that I was able to shop there. Hidden gems are my favorite. They might not look like much on the outside, but you are pleasantly surprised when you walk in the door. They had good quality, new and gently used clothing and accessories and I found their prices were very reasonable. They also had a great selection of jewelry (crystal and gemstone), perfume, handbags, women’s apparel, and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and yes, you guessed it, I left there with quite a few purchases.
Doodlebugs Consignment had a little something for everyone. They did have a good selection of kids apparel, but that’s what they specialize in and why I wanted to check it out. I found some super cute outfits for my granddaughter that she just loved! It’s a great consignment shop for kids clothing, the boys and girls clothes were separated, and they had a wide range of sizes to choose from. The staff was super friendly and they would love to have you stop in and see what they have to offer!
While at home or on vacation, take some time to pamper yourself and shop consignment. You’ll be so happy that you did, because you will find some wonderful items to add to your wardrobe or to your home. And, if you happen to be planning a vacation soon, be sure to visit our website and book your vacation now!