© 2009 Adult Ministries of Grace Church, Des Moines, IA.
| Spring 2010 Newsletter: Spring for a new wardrobe with local expert's shopping secrets |
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By: Leanna Hafften Several years ago, Brenda Chenchar of Des Moines found a more budget-friendly way to update her wardrobe by bypassing department and discount stores for secondhand shops. “I’ve always liked nice clothes and I like to shop a lot,” said Brenda. She now shares her tips and finds through her blog, ”Secrets of a Secondhand Shopaholic.” “I can have entire outfits for what most people pay for one outfit. I want to inspire other people to try [secondhand shopping], too,” said Brenda. After graduating from the University of Iowa, Brenda Chenchar moved to Houston, Texas, to start her career as a teacher, and soon discovered secondhand stores as a way to build a wardrobe without spending a lot of money. She started by shopping at consignment stores and then found her dollar could go even further at thrift stores, such as Goodwill. “It made a lot more sense,” said Brenda. A few years later, Brenda’s career shifted to marketing communications, which eventually led to a move to the Des Moines area. The subzero temperatures of an Iowa winter caused Brenda to head back to secondhand shops for a wardrobe more fitting to the Midwest. When friends or co-workers commented on her clothes, she found herself nearly bursting with wanting to share the “secret” behind her fashion finds, which led Brenda start her blog. When Brenda challenged herself on her blog to create 28 outfits in 28 days for less than $28 each in February, she caught the attention of WHO-TV. They featured Brenda and her thrift store shopping savvy on their local newscasts and internet site.
Before heading out to a local thrift shop, Brenda recommends the following tips for a successful shopping spree: For the best selections, shop on weekday evenings, rather than weekends. According to Brenda, stores are extremely busy during the weekend. Items aren’t restocked as often and patrons often drop off more items. By Tuesday morning, items brought in over the weekend are on display. Another good time to try is on Fridays before the weekend crowds. Skim catalogs for the season’s current styles and colors, or go online and check out some of the fashion blogs. Brenda recommends YouLookFab.com because you can take a photo of an outfit and send it to the blog’s editors. They will respond with their opinions and advice. “I don’t know how to put an outfit together and have learned my style is dated,” said Brenda. She consults tools, such as an online fashion inspiration calendar, to help put separate clothing items together in different ways. Keep an open mind and don’t shop a thrift store for something specific. “I have a wish list, and I’ll know it when I see it,” said Brenda. “You might be disappointed if you don’t find something you have in mind, but you might find something unexpected.” Browse all the sections of the store. It’s not uncommon to find items in the wrong category or size. Take the time to try items on in the store. Most stores have a no-return policy. Make sure you have a lot of time to shop. Think of it like a treasure hunt and be prepared to dig through the racks and bins. Find out the store’s designated sale days and learn the meaning of specially marked tags. Knowing this key information can help you take advantage of the best savings. Top thrift store finds: · Unique, “statement” jackets. · Sweaters · Capris · T-shirts · Coats
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