Treasure Hunting

October 7, 2011

Consignment and thrift stores have come a long way from the dingy, musty places I remember scouring for Halloween costumes and college apartment furnishings. They're what I've always associated with vintage novelty items, not exactly top of mind when thinking fashion.

But over the last few years the demand for higher-end, low cost resale stores seems to be growing. Or is it that boutique consignment stores have sprung up creating that demand? Either way, I'm grateful.

I recently discovered The Top Drawer in Ladysmith, a consignment boutique on the historic main street of the most quaint town on Vancouver Island. It just can't get better than that. The owners, Cathy and Peter Barter, are experts at making you feel like a long time friend and their favourite customer just minutes into browsing their store for the fist time. They offer suggestions and always let you in on the newest stock scoop, all the while juggling other buyers and consignors in their busy shop.

This week with a solid work excuse to drive the 25 minutes to Ladysmith I was excited to visit with Cathy and Peter again. I had clothes to consign and I also had 'research' to do after all. After browsing, chatting and trying on many different pieces I walked out 45 minutes later with the most perfect - for me - leather jacket. Thank you to the previous owner for loving it, wearing it in just right and knowing when to pass it on. It was less than a third of what it would have cost originally and it's my newest treasure.

We all keep clothes around too long with the hope we'll fit into them again or like the colour and shape again even when deep down we know it'll never happen. Once a wardrobe love affair is over, it's over. So why not clear the space in our closets, and in turn our heads, and make room for the things we love? Most store owners, including Cathy and Peter, will donate any clothing that has gone unsold. Whether you're buying or consigning, it's shopping with a conscience. There is a thrill in the hunt and it has a way of making you feel pretty savvy. You are supporting local business and consignors and there's a good chance you'll get something more unique and better made than found at discount big box stores. Only the well-constructed and classic styles survive more than one owner. Shopping this way saves money, keeps the cycle going and guarantees you'll find something you didn't know you were looking for.

Cathy calls it, "Reduce. Reuse. Rejoice!"