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Nadine. Studying Anthropology & Human Rights. Reflections about Life, Faith, Love, Style. Not very eloquent, this is my stream of consciousness. Oh yeah, I want to travel the world.

Saturday, March 9, 2013

Consignment Tips

Today I had a little extra time, and some extra money so I decided to go to Crossroads (one of the larger chain consignment stores in my area)  Prior to this little trip, I had accumulated some clothes that I have decided to sell so I can still refresh my wardrobe for this upcoming season.  Trust me, I have really been trying to reduce the size of my closet, I really wish I could be as persistent as one of the girls I look up to, The Gracious Gaze, since she has shrunk her closet size and has been able to utilize her closet a lot more.

Let's be honest here, I have attachment issues with my clothes.  Since high school, I have always had an obsession with how I present myself, for myself... I love the feeling of wearing a good outfit to my standard.  I don't want to get defensive about it, but I really do dress for myself, and nobody else, not even my boyfriend! (he could honestly care less.) When I did the YouTube thing, which I am thinking about booting up again in the Summer of 2013, I accumulated so many clothes.  My closet grew four times it's size during that time.

Since then, I quit YouTube, and moved out to where I have very limited storage space, so I definitely needed to reduce.  I have been consigning for about 5 years now, since I love rejuvenating my closet and mixing up some classics with the trends.  I feel like I have perfected the art of consigning, and get as much as I can from selling my clothes.

My 3 tips for selling your clothes:

1. See what seasons the consignment store is buying for:
image via crossroadstrading.com

Look at your local consignment store's website, or call them to see what they are buying at the time. I observe people who bring heaps and heaps of clothing (see 2) who bring anything and everything they can find for a quick dollar.  Most consignment stores are not different from chain retail stores, for they follow seasons so they can maximize profit.  This is very crucial, I feel like there is a fine line between spring/summer and fall/winter so I usually just group my clothes into those two categories. People bring in bags and bags of clothing that they need to get rid of to the store, but they forget that most consignment stores are looking for trendy things.  All the things I see are very dated and worn.  Do not waste your time and the buyer's time by bringing in out of season/out of date clothing.  You will just leave disappointed. 

2. Don't try to sell too much:


Be courteous to the buyer, I know how hard times are, and this is a great way to make some quick $$ or have the ability to change up your wardrobe, but the store can only carry so much.  If I was a buyer, and I would see how many clothes you brought, I would just try to go through it as quick as I can and not want to buy anything, especially if you didn't look at #1. Personally, I sell 1 (stuffed) duffle bag at a time. I usually end up getting $100+ in store credit afterward.


3. Time Wisely:


Go on a weekday, maybe in the middle of the day.  Less people have come throughout the day so there is a higher chance of the buyers going for your items! If you don't have time, another way to utilize this tip is that if you do choose to go on a high buying day, give yourself 2-3 hours.  Scope out the buying list, and if you really REALLY don't have the time, see if the consignment store has drop-off options. (Just be cautious of what you are selling, and ask them for a list of things they bought so you don't get cheated.)


I hope you find this useful, since it has been very effective for me! Happy Selling!

 Bye for now,
-nalovita.

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