Quite often, college budgets do not allow spending the way students want. Those with couture dreams and a Target budget now have a shopping alternative-- thrift stores.
When first venturing into the world of second-hand shopping, a successful shopper must keep a few tips in mind.
"You must keep an open mind. Many people shop with preconceived notions. You can't let the fear of the unknown scare you away from a good deal," said Janis Thomas, a senior marketing major.
"It is true that things at many second hand stores are used and therefore may be a bit worn and tattered. Try to think of the potential of each piece, and think how you can place this item into your regular clothing rotation."
Another helpful tip is to shop on sale days. Many thrift stores have huge sales with additional percentages off on certain days. For example, The Village, located on Bladensburg Road in Hyattsville, Md., offers an additional 50 percent off everything in the store on Saturday.
Thrift stores are also perfect for ultra trendy items that hit the fashion scene one or two seasons ago. Secondhand shops also offer an array of antique and new wave jewelry.
Students leave with twice, sometimes even triple the amount of merchandise from thrift stores for the same price as one item at a regular retail outlet.
Kendra McDougall, a sophomore journalism major, limits herself to essentials and major must-haves.
"It's hard for me to restrict myself when I do shop at those stores," McDougall said. "However, I limit my purchases to things I really like or items I can't leave behind."
"You never know how long cowboys boots will be in style, so it's better to buy a pair of boots for $3 and toss them out when they are out [of style] and not spend your entire refund check on some shoes you will only wear twice."
Thrift stores are not just for clothing; everything from furniture to art is available at a fraction of the cost. Some items at a thrift store are perfectly fine, while others may need some additional upkeep. But if a customer pays $10 for a desk, it may be worth it to spend an extra $3 to paint it.
Thrift Stores in the D.C. Area
1. Georgia Avenue Thrift Store 6101 Georgia Ave, N.W., Washington, DC 20011 Hours of Operation: Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
2. Value Village Thrift Store 2277 University Blvd., Hyattsville, MD 20783 Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
3. Secondhand Rose 1516 Wisconsin Ave., Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007 Hours of Operation: Monday - Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
4. Brown Thrift Store 3457 14th St., Washington, DC 20008 Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
5. Kalaa's Consignment Closet 1301 7th St. N.W., Washington, DC 20001 Hours of Operation: Call for Hours. 202-797-2003
6. Connecticut Avenue Collection 5520 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Suite 4 Washington DC 20015-2609 Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
