By Paige Wolf
I am fortunate that my first born is boy who will wear absolutely any random hand-me-downs we lay out for him. A T-shirt from a camp he never went to, shorts that are slightly too big – great. He couldn’t care less.
But as my daughter is getting older she is starting to care. She wants to be fashionable and colorful and wear all the latest crazes that she sees on her peers. And I will generally let her.
However, I do not want to shop at Justice. Ever. I don’t want to go to Claire’s or Five Below or even H&M unless absolutely necessary. I despise fast fashion, clothing waste, and spending my money on things that will be immediately outgrown or destroyed.
Fortunately, there are some great local places to find stylish secondhand clothing and accessories for all ages, and tweens will have a great time browsing at these shops!
Buffalo Exchange
Buffalo Exchange buys men’s and women’s clothing and accessories in excellent condition – the best of all seasons, all year long, including current trends, designer, vintage and one-of-a-kind finds. The inventory changes daily, so stop in to sell your closet cleanout and shop for new-to-you finds! There’s no appointment necessary – just remember to bring along an adult with an ID if you’re under 18. For anything they’re able to buy, they’ll assign it a selling price and you’ll receive 30% of the selling price in cash OR 50% in store credit on-the-spot. The Center City location draws and represents Philly’s fashion finest, from high-end designer clothing to the latest street wear.
Career Wardrobe
Career Wardrobe uses clothing to inspire change. Whether it’s a new suit for work, an outfit for school, or clothing that affirms one’s identity, Career Wardrobe is here to help! Score high fashion finds from top designers and low-key casual style from brands like Banana Republic, GAP, and J Crew. They are open to the public with clothing priced to match any budget. Visit them at 1822 Spring Garden Street and the brand new Delaware County location opening late summer at 62 West Marshall Road in Lansdowne, PA.
Poshmark
So your kid just NEEDS those new Nikes or light up hat or whatever else nonsense trend is of the moment. You can often find these items secondhand on apps like Poshmark, which even offer bundles of kids’ clothes for a steal. Use Code PAIGEWOLF with signup for $10 off your first purchase!
Greene Street
Started as a single family-owned consignment shop on the Main Line, Greene Street has grown to include 10 brick-and-mortar locations throughout the greater Philadelphia and New Jersey areas. Shoppers will find mid-to-high-end labels at a fraction of retail prices. Greene Street stores began operations with a consignment-only platform but now offer buy/trade at all locations. This new buy/trade service offers consignors faster payment via 50% trade (Store Credit) or 30% e-cash on all accepted items.
Plato’s Closet
With South Jersey locations in Deptford and Maple Shade, Plato’s Closet focuses primarily on high-quality secondhand teen fashion. You’ll find a huge selection of trendy, designer styles as well as those every day basics you can’t live without—all at up to 70% off retail prices! They also buy gently used teen and young adult style clothing and accessories that are name brands, cool, hip, trendy, clean and in good condition. Most stores buy and sell girls sizes 0 to 30 and guys sizes 28 to 40 waist, and they typically buy current styles that are still in the mall.
