The slowing economy is bad news for most retailers -- but not all. Secondhand shops are booming. One survey shows sales are up by 35 percent at many stores.
Consignment stores are filled with little worn or never worn items....some even with original price tags. Each store has a unique market at Rhonda Davis' Vancouver store, Changes.
"We consign for women. We take things bought in the last year perfect condition mid to high end labels," she explained.
They also get unsold merchandise from retail stores and designers.
"There's a lot of small retailers that maybe weren't as busy as they thought they were maybe they over bought so they clear all of their excess stock through us," Rhonda said.
Items that were new last spring will sell in the consignment store this spring.
Consignment stores take a percentage of the sale price. The clothing must be close to mint condition.
And the price can drop significantly the longer the clothing stays in the store ... sometimes to just a few dollars. A smart tip:
"Let the owner know what you're interested in. Then when new stuff comes in she can call you," recommends Tobie Stanger of Consumer Reports.
Non-profit thrift stores like goodwill and the Salvation Army are even less expensive and often have a bigger selection.
And the money you spend goes to charity. But check carefully for rips or stains. And don't buy anything that really doesn't fit.
"You're not likely to be able to return anything," said Stanger.
Shoppers say finding the perfect thing at a rock bottom price is worth the hunt. And what doesn't sell in two months, Rhonda gives it back to the original owner or donates it to charity.
"We donate seven days a week to women in need in the downtown east side and the single mom's network," she said.
Don't confuse consignment stores with vintage shops, where clothing is a lot pricier. Check out the yellow pages or go online to find nearby consignment stores.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
