A penny saved…

I feel like I’m a member of a support group if I stand up and say…

“Hello everyone. My name’s Lucy and I buy mostly used clothes.”

Really, the only thing I’m trying to recover from is debt. Buying used, if I buy smart, is a big part of my recovery. While there are some items I couldn’t be paid to take (used underwear tops that list), secondhand clothing is a great way to augment your warddrobe while minimizing budget strain.

From vintage clothing sales to thrift stores, there are many options out there for those who want to look current but keep more moolah in their wallets. Let’s face it: clothing and accessories can add up quickly. The questions of whether to buy or not to buy new depends on your budget and money allocations. But most people want to look nice, whatever their personal definition of that entails.

Whether you’re buying used or new, a budget is still in order. It’s easy to think when dealing with used clothing that you can buy twice as much. Also, just because something is relatively inexpensive doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still consider it’s practicality and appeal. Something you won’t wear is a waste of money whether it’s $3 or $23.

Figure out what’s hanging in your closet, what you want more of and what you need to weed out. Go looking with a list but be flexible; if you see the pink raincoat of your dreams and you can afford it, don’t get too caught up in your list.

When I first started buying used clothing, I allowed price to rule over practicality. In that I mean that I bought a huge quantity of clothing that appealed aesthetically but practically I never or rarely wore. After a few years of donating things back to the stores I bought from without wearing them, I was ready for a change. I’ve learned that while part of me loves vibrant colours, it’s easiest to mix and match a wardrobe where I have majority neutrals with a few bright accessories. Makes me less blinding to the eyes too, natch.

In terms of items to think of avoiding, it becomes a personal issue. I wouldn’t buy anything intimate like panties, socks, shoes and swimsuits but I’ve been shopping where I’ve seen people loading up and loving these items (shudder). I just think that there are some hygeine issues with some items but there are those who are a little more lax with their standards. It’s a crazy world kids!

Save your pennies for new undies and socks and the shoes of your dreams. A black tee shirt is better bought used.

Right?

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