Ways to refresh your wardrobe on a budget

Pet Save Sudbury to open new thrift store Volunteers at Pet Save in Sudbury are preparing to open a new thrift store in order to help pay the bills.

A little retail therapy can make a person feel good and finding new pieces of clothing to refresh your wardrobe can really lift one's spirits.

However, in this economy and with rising inflation, lots of shoppers are looking for the best value. And while some incredible deals can be found online, sometimes what arrives is not what was expected, if it shows up at all.

Here are some ways to support local businesses in a way that is more earth-friendly and good for the economy.

Thrifting

Shopping at thrift stores has become more popular in the last decade and some real treasures can be found for a bargain. The downside is you often have to pick through racks and racks of clothing and there is not always an opportunity to try things on.

Two local thrift stores on Notre Dame Avenue in the Flour Mill sell used items that have been donated by members of the community as a way to fund charitable work.

The Jarrett Value Centre provides valuable training and work opportunities for developmentally disabled adults and PetSave ReTail uses its profits to fund the local animal rescue organization.

Consignment

Several years ago, a friend introduced me to a consignment store called Bargain Annies. It too is located on Notre Dame Avenue.

They offer both new and used items and take women's clothing on consignment.

The owner Tammy posts a curated selection from her store on Facebook weekly for "Fashion Friday."

Recently, I visited another store that offers both new and consignment items in Capreol, Little Town Boutique owned by Stephanie Turpin.

I was excited to find a great selection of gently used items and some that were new that still had tags on them. But most of all, I was happy to support another local businesswoman.

Hold a clothing swap

Another way to refresh your wardrobe and purge your current collection at the same time is to hold a clothing swap with others you know.

The best part is it is free and a great way to get together with other people.

Everyone brings clothing, shoes, accessories or even household items they no longer need or want for the group to peruse.

After everyone has picked the items they want, anything left over can be donated to charity.

My favourite place to bring donations is to the Community Closet at Better Beginnings Better Futures on Morin Avenue in the Flour Mill.

Volunteers arrange the donations into a retail-like setting and clients can shop the items for free.

It is a great way to give back to people in need.