CHIC SAVINGS AT CONSIGNMENT STORES

The need may have been driven by the collapse in the economy..but now it's a full fledged trend. And those who are flocking to consignment stores are part of nearly every income level. It's now considered "cool" to treasure hunt at consignment stores and retailers specializing in used goods. The way a consignment store works is very simple: anyone can bring in gently used items..from clothing to housewares..and have the store owner stock the items for sale. When a customer purchases that item...the owner gets a cut of usually around 40%. Not bad since the store has the overhead of the retail space and staff. It's slightly different at re-sale stores. They will give you cash or credit on the spot for your stuff.

"JUST LIKE NEW"

That's the name of a store in Glastonbury that is quickly gaining a reputation for stocking high end quality merchandise at Wal-Mart like prices. The first step is finding good stuff. Owner Helene Kapelewski says they look at any and all items brought in and then comb through the lot to find the best. Once the store accepts them for consignment....they are cleaned and presented in her well organized and friendly shop in the Putnam Bridge Plaza. The person bringing in the item gets at least 40% of the proceeds once the item is sold. All clothing and accessories must be in current style,in season, and in perfect condition. Sandy Bryan knows first hand what kind of deals can be found at "Just Like New". In her first trip to the store she snagged a pair of Nine West shoes that normally cost over 50 dollars for just 7 dollars and change.

NO "KIDDING"..FIND RE-SALE BARGAINS FOR THE LITTLE ONES

Parents, more than anyone, understand the need to save a buck wherever and whenever they can. One spot all parents should at least check out is "Once Upon a Child". With 5 Connecticut locations, the used clothing/accessory store is a gold mine for deep discounts on all things children. And like "Just Like New"...they want your used items. Every day, except on Sundays, they will appraise your items and if accepted..they will slap cash in your hands or give you a check or a store credit. The place makes perfect sense for parents whose children have outgrown their old clothes, toys or strollers. Before anything is out on the shelf for sale...each item is cross checked with government recall lists and given every safety check possible.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If your looking for mint condition upscale clothing and accesories and are smart enough not to be suckered into outrageous retail prices...check out "Just Like New" in Glastonbury. The staff is friendly and helpful and the merchandise is top notch. Best of all...the prices are stunningly low. And if you have stuff that needs a new home..bring it in and you could soon have a nice chunk of change with very little effort. Moms and Dads...do your wallet a favor and pay a visit to "Once Upon a Child". They have a need for strollers and equipment!