Second Time Around
by Maitland Quitmeyer
Living in a city like New York, there are temptations every- where when it comes to shopping. Buying secondhand or vintage clothing and accessories can either clean out your wallet or save you bundles, depending on where you go and on your willingness to bargain. But when you’re tired of wearing the same Urban Outfitters sweater as everyone else on campus, it may be time to look for one-of-a-kind and gently-used trea- sures around the city.
The fun of second-hand clothing extends far beyond its wallet- friendliness. I love putting on a dress I know someone (who I imagine to be very fabulous) has worn before. Next time you are pressed for cash or need a wardrobe overhaul, consider selling that blazer you never wear but scored you that job in- terview, or that pair of shoes that are too small but did get you that guy’s phone number. Someone else might find them lucky as well.
Beacon’s Closet
Beacon’s Closet’s two locations (the big’un in Brooklyn and the boutique in Union Square) are meccas for college students on a budget. When you get tired of last season’s mustard peacoat, bring it in to sell it for 35-55% of the ticket price, or trade it for the wide variety of second-hand and consignment items that Beacon’s Closet carries. Favorite haul items include Michael Kors booties for less than $30 and a vintage Nicole Miller dress for under $20.
Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market
Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market on 39th Street (between Ninth and Tenth Avenues) is relatively small, but definitely worth the trip. Open from 9-5 every Saturday andSunday,itistheperfectweek- end jaunt for any Barnard girl. Some of the hot items include fur coats, leather satchels, and costume jewelry. Don’t miss the paintings– starting at 20 bucks, they can really liven up a dorm room for cheap.
The Antiques Garage
The Antiques Garage is located on West 25th Street (between Sixth and Seventh Avenues)
and is also open from 9-5 every Saturday and Sunday. Don’t let thefactthatit’sinagarageput you off—this flea market is chock full of treasures in a wide variety of price ranges. I recently bought a pair of gorgeous signed YSL vintage earrings for 60 bucks, but when I went with Gloria Noel, BC ’14, the other week, we bargained one vendor down to three pairs of earrings for $12.
Stella Dallas Vintage
Stella Dallas Vintage (218 Thompson Street) in the Village has a great selection of boots, bags, and dresses that are reasonably priced. When you have the urge to go more Mad Men than boho-chic, look no further.
