When season's change, it's a time for many to clean out their closets and bins and switch wardrobes. A basic rule of thumb to follow when it comes to whether or not you should keep your clothes is: If you didn't wear it last season, you probably won't wear it this season.
Donating clothes to a worthy cause is always needed and admirable. However, you can also take certain items and make a pretty decent chunk of change by selling them at a consignment shop... if you know what to do.
First: What is a consignment shop? A consignment shop is a store that sells used, (sometimes new), clothing and accessories. The items are typically brought in by people who no longer want them. When you sell your clothing and accessories at a consignment shop, (many are like upscale boutiques), you usually get 50% of what the item sold for, and the consignment shop keeps the other 50%.
Prepare your clothing before bringing it to a consignment shop and other details:
1. Make sure the clothing is in style. Not necessarily the latest trendy fashions, but clothes you know people would wear today.
2. The clothing should be in season. Very important!
3. Clean, pressed, and on hangars in most cases.
4. Call the consignment shop to find out how many items of clothing they take at a time, when they take consignments, and ask what they're looking for. It may be tops more than pants, no dresses, etc. They may only sell women's clothing. Be sure to ask.
5. Typically, when you bring your clothing to a consignment shop, there will be an agreement to sign. This agreement will give you your percentage of the sale, (typically 50%), the terms, the time frame before you are required to pick up any unsold items, and will often state that after the pick up date, the clothing becomes the property of the consignment shop.
6. If you're in agreement with the terms, sign it and keep it handy so you can call to see if anything's sold. It will also serve as a reminder of your pick up date.
7. More than likely, some, if not all of your clothing will sell, and you end up with cash for clothes you would have ordinarily thrown away or donated. While donating your unwanted clothing is essential to those in need, you may have financial needs, too. Selling your gently used clothing may be a viable way to help pay for gasoline, purchase the new sneakers your child needs, or put more food on the table.
Tip 1: Clothing that's new and still has the tags on it typically sells faster. People know they're getting a great deal on something that's never been worn, and it's all in the perceived value of the item.
Tip 2: If you have time, visit a thrift store and go through the clothing. If you find items that are in great shape, have tags and only cost a couple of dollars, grab them. Be sure to bring the clothes home to press and put on hangars. Take items to your consignment shop, and you're bound to make a hefty return on your investment of a couple dollars (per item). Be sure not to buy clothing that costs too much. Example: If you find a blouse selling for 3 dollars, and it would bring about twelve at a consignment shop, you'll make 6 dollars, (50%), while netting 3 dollars, (less the 3 you invested). Remember not to spend too much on thrift store clothing. This is very important. If you spend too much, you might break even, or worse, lose money.
In conclusion: Selling your unwanted clothing at a clothing consignment shop is a great way to pocket a few extra dollars-at a time when most of us are looking to add to our incomes! "One man's junk is another man's treasure."
Good Luck & Happy Selling!
