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Health & Fitness

Why Shop Consignment?

Why has consignment shopping become so popular? Read the benefits to shopping in the new, upscale shops.

In this economy, I have heard many people sing the praises of consignment store shopping. But weak economy or not, there are many great reasons to shop in the new, upscale consignment stores.

One reason is selection. A good resale store will have a wide variety of better brands. This is a great opportunity to define your style and determine your fit. Fit is the most important part of an awesome wardrobe. In a well-stocked consignment store, you can try on several different brands and find what size and style fits you the best. Size, after all is only a guideline. Every designer and manufacturer sizes differently so please don't pigeonhole yourself to one size. Buy what fits. Take jeans for example. You can go to a consignment store and try on Lucky, Seven for All Mankind, Express or Paige brands. Once you know what fits you well, you can return to those brands, time and again, without all the effort.

Another reason for consignment shopping is choice. You will find styles that others had bought the moment they hit the stores, at full price. Now, you get a second opportunity to have that top or jacket that was so out of your budget the first time, at a reasonable price. Think of the wardrobe you could have if you could double your spending budget. Consignment shopping allows you to do just that.

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A third reason for shopping in this manner is service. A good store owner knows that giving individual attention to shoppers is the best way to foster relationships and encourage loyalty. Having this relationship has its benefits. A caring shop owner will learn what you like and keep a wish list of items for you. When those items come in, you will be first to view them and have first option to buy. This kind of personal service is less common than it once was. Consignment stores keep those values in mind while building their clientele.

Some people are concerned about "cleanliness". Ask the shop-owner for the criteria in collecting merchandise. Does it need to be cleaned before purchase? Does the store steam each item? Are the items checked individually? Items in a well kept consignment store are as clean as a department store where many customers try on items every day. You should wash garments before you wear them no matter where you buy them.

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I encourage you to give this type of shopping a try. In Freehold, at One Green Shoe, we are very proud of our dedication to recycling, our support of the community and our charitable outreach. A percentage of every sale goes to charity. That's why our motto is "Look good, do good"

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