It's the selection. I was amazed at all the amount of stuff in these stores. For instance, all the stores I featured in my report have great accessories. You need a handbag or a brooch? Check out the consignment stores. Necklaces --- no problem. Even shoes. (I can hear some groans with this one.) Some have never been worn. Of course the Derby hats are plentiful this time of year. If you like buying the perfect hat then finding the Derby dress, consignment stores have a lot to offer. If you decide to switch the outfit you're not out a lot for the hat that doesn't match.
Also, if you're a small size you've got it made in consignment stores. Are there really that many size 2's out there or are there women who just buy size 2 and sell the clothes when the diet doesn't work? (Do I sound bitter?) I saw a lot of 2's and 4's.
My daughters who are 19 and 24 agreed to shop with me for this report. (I didn't have to twist arms much with that request!!) Within an hour of walking into the first store, one daughter hit the Derby dress jackpot. She found a perfect dress and the perfect hat. She was set - but she wasn't done. Let me tell you about the purse. This will always be known in our Derby fashion stories as the year of the shell purse. It was a must have. Picture this - a small straw colored, shiny satin purse with the front molded in the shape of a clam shell. It's just the right size to hold a few bucks and cell phone. Best of all, it only cost $14.
My other daughter -- not so lucky. We shopped much longer and didn't cash in on consignment. So, it's not for everyone every time. But I will say, we had fun.
Check out our WHAS-11.COM exclusive interview on advice for selling at consignment stores. A veteran consignment store employee gives you tips for making the most on your clothes. Plus, we have our secret shopper review of seven consignment stores. Tell us where you find great buys.