There are many consignment shops in Manhattan, and when I see one I like to look at the books and furniture, usually spotting real bargains. But I never fail to think about the people who gave up their possessions to fill these shops, and the tough times they must be going through. I seldom leave with more than a few books. I’ve given away shelves of books to shops myself. The designer items are not necessary for day-to-day survival, as your pictures so clearly illustrate.

I have an actual aversion to this kind of designer goods. I just think it’s sooo ridiculous to buy a name! my neighbor has a bunch of jimmy choo and christian whats his name shoes. I look at them and think..all in the eye of the beholder. a black pump is a black pump is a black pump. i prefer to not get mine at payless as i like real leather. but 1200 bucks??? moronic. I’m going to a charity auction next month where there will be lots of designer duds. I am wearing a gorgeous classic jackie O looking dress that cost me 81 bucks on sale. I splurged on the shoes and paid 100 dollars as they are sooo wild and crazy. but they are the most expensive dress shoes i own. My giant costume jewlerey fake diamond peace symbol earrings were 50 bucks. and i’m still gonna be one of the hottest chicks in the room lol!

Consignment shops are fun to go to. You never know what your going to find. Sometimes I’ve found some real deals, other times nothing but junk. You just never know.

Consignment shops are the way to go! I have found so many wonderful items for me and my daughter that I never could have purchased new (and still had groceries in the house!). My favorite comfy shoes are a pair of Tod’s black leather driving loafers - they feel like gloves for the feet. I paid $60 for them and I think they are usually close to $400. An open mind is an absolute necessity when shopping consignment - have one and you will never be disappointed!

You never know what lies ahead for you when you enter a consignment shop. I bought a wonderful Prada sweater last year for $12.50!

Now $60 for a pair of shoes that would retail at $400, is a true bargain, even if they were gently used.

Ok - call me a total middle classer, but $60 for a pair of shoes is no bargain! Now, the sweater for $12.50, yeah, but buying a used dress for $900, when it originally cost $2,000 and thinking you are getting a deal? Who the heck can afford a $900 dress????? Maybe all those rich ladies that run this website, but us “Real” people cannot. AND, who would want to anyway? I guess it’s all a matter of perspective. Even if I had alot of money, would I want to spend $900 on a dress ever? Nope.

I love me a consignment shop! I’ve also found great things at thrift shops…you just have to “have an eye” and lots of time! As I’ve said before, hitting thrift and consignment shops is one of my favorite ways to spend a rainy day.

Stuart Weitzman heeled patent loafers, reg. $350 .. I found for $14.99 at value village second hand store. Mint condition. Wowza.

Hit paydirt this weekend, finding a Cache evening gown for my daughter’s prom for $23.00! Most gowns she had been looking at had been in the $275 to $350 range at the mall stores. Combined with lovely Lauren sandals picked up at DSW on ultra-clearance she is going to have a gorgeous look for under $50 - wow!!!!