I’ve been told that I have champagne taste, and I don’t deny it. I like nice things. BUT. I am also a freelance writer, so I exercise willpower frequently. It looks a lot like this: me pacing the racks at Macy’s, asking myself if I really need a new purse. “But it’s gorgeous!” “It will last until next season forever!” I tell myself. Don’t worry, though. I put it back…usually.
But most of the time, I am an excellent bargain hunter, just like my mother taught me. One of my favorite ways to shop smart is to raid consignment stores. Some people balk at the idea of used goods, but consignment stores tend to be choosier about the products they take in, so you have a better chance of finding high quality items there than at say, Goodwill, which is donation only. Just be sure to administer the smell test, check for major wear and tear, and wash your items before wearing or using.
Another bonus to frequenting used-goods stores is that you find stuff that probably nobody else has. And if there is one thing I hate, it’s when another girl has my outfit…
There are many great consignment shops in Santa Fe, where I live, and there are many treasures to be found in each. Here my top five:
Double Take
Double Take is Santa Fe’s most popular consignment store. It takes up an entire block downtown, and teems with men’s and women’s apparel, cowboy boots, baby clothes, and furniture. Double Take attracts a lot of tourists, but it’s also a local favorite. There is just so much stuff there that one is bound to find something he or she can’t live without.
Ooh La La Consignment
“Ooh La La has the best stuff,” said a friend of mine the other day. “You have to check it out.” So, I did. My verdict: this place is a total gem. The clothing is immaculate and they stock tons of great brands and labels. Shopping at Ooh La La is like going through the closet of your most fashionable friend.
Real Deal Collection
Now, if you are really into labels, the Real Deal Collection is the store for you. They deal exclusively in designer name handbags and accessories, like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Chanel. It is a mecca for the dialed-in fashionista. The only downside to the Real Deal is that even though you can buy a Chanel bag for $400 rather than $3,000, $400 is still a lot of money. That being said, you can more easily save up for a gently-used Dior than a brand new one.
The Consignment Warehouse
Need furniture? The Consignment Warehouse will hook. you. up. If you need a fine chair, they have it. If you need enormous 10-point deer antlers, they have those too. The Consignment Warehouse carries classic and eclectic home furnishings, which, even if you don’t buy anything, makes for a fun romp through a giant 35,000 square foot warehouse. Just don’t break anything…
Barkin Boutique
Santa Fe is definitely a dog town—the city hosts a Pet Parade every year during Fiestas—which makes Barkin Boutique a fitting retail establishment for the City Different. 100% of the store’s sales go to the Espanola Valley Humane Society, so when you shop at Barkin Boutique, you are finding great deals and helping out man’s best friend. There is also the Barkin Attic, which has loads of furniture and housewares.
What are some of your favorite consignment or used goods stores in Santa Fe or New Mexico?