Reader Q&A: Buying consignment vs. new

I will be starting a new "series" here on the Frugal Flamingo. Once or twice a week, I will answer reader questions.  I try to answer each question personally, but since the questions are good, it is nice to discuss them publically.

So, here is our first Q & A discussion.

Please note that these answers are just my opinion. Sometimes my opinion changes with time because of experience or change of life circumstances. 

Your question: What are your thoughts on consignment stores vs. waiting for sales at a brand name store?

Second hand shopping is a subject near and dear to my heart.  I would be not be exaggerating to say that 85% or more of mine and my children's wardrobes come from second hand shopping.  The 15% that is new is bought on extreme sale.

I began second hand shopping when I was young. My mom would frequent yardsales.  We also accepted "hand me downs".  Not that I was always thrilled with these prospects, but it is what I knew. 

In college, I began to "thrift shop".  I quickly became addicted and never stopped.  Once I had children, I became an avid yardsaler.  Of course, I love a really good store sale too.

The specifics of this question is regarding consignment shops.  There is a huge difference between a consignment shop and a thrift shop.  I tend to be more experienced with thrift shopping.  However, I have done my share of actual consignment shopping.

All consignment shops are not created equal.  I have been to consignment shops that I simply could not afford to buy anything!  I have also been to consignment shops that the prices are as low as a yardsale.  You have to explore them to figure out which ones are best for you.  Of course, if you are partial to a label like Gymboree, consignment shopping is usually the way to go.

Here is my rule of thumb in regards to if I purchase it new.  I set price thresholds.  For my kids, I don't like paying more than $5 for an item.  If it is used I try not to pay more than $3.  Yes, this even includes shoes.  

For myself, my threshold is $10.  Spending $10 feels like a real splurge.  I know this may seem pathetic to some, but it works for me.  This week, I stopped in the mall. I was able to buy 5 tops and 2 jackets for $40 which averages $5.71 an item.  I felt at that price it was definitely worth buying new.

We will explore second hand shopping more on the Frugal Flamingo. However, rule of thumb is to buy ahead.  I constantly shop for my kids from my own "stash".  If they out grow their shoes, usually there is a pair in the basement in their next size.

As time goes along, I will share my system with you.

Second hand  or new?  Set your price thresholds.  If you can buy it new at that price, great!  If not, try finding it second hand

Do you have a question regarding today's topic or any other?  Feel free to leave a comment or email me at flamingo.mama@hotmail.com.  I will do my best to address it in a future post.