Consignment Heaven! Recessionista Bride tips!

Yup, its that time again when I write a post. I have been flooded working my butt off at work so I haven't had much time to write. Anyway I as usual I am always looking for the hottest deals and any way to wed for less so here is the hot stuff: CONSIGNMENT STORES! These aren't your regular grandma consignment stores. No these are the hottest hand me downs of the year. Big names like Gucci, Fendi, Prada, Helmut Lang e.t.c. Here are some of the hot stores: Christabelle' s Closet: This site is user friendly and pretty easy. Find what you need by size or category. http://christabellescloset.com/

INA NYC- Its a real store based in NYC but has a cool Ebay online store just click shop online. Bonus has a cool Helmut Lang dress in white. http://www.inanyc.com/

Second Time Around http://www.secondtimearound.net/index.aspx I live in the DMV (DC, Maryland and Virginia area) and we have one over her that I love. On the site it has store locations but it doesn't have shop online options.

Annie Creamcheese Also in the DMV area and Vegas, this shop has tons of high class fashion and it has the option of shopping online. Only one gripe, its hard to find sizes for curvy gals. Other than that its very posh. http://www.anniecreamcheese.com/home

Renaissance Consignment Boutique based in Birmingham Alabama this shop is only for the trendy "Ladies, Teens and Queens." I love that they have a user friendly online shop. http://www.renaissanceconsignment.com/

Rice and Bean Vintage really cool really user friendly! http://www.riceandbeansvintage.com/vintageclothing.html

Consignment Store Tips:

1. Know what you are looking at. Learn a little bit about fashion labels go into fashion and bridal high fashion boutiques. Really look at the tags and the way the clothes are made before dropping $500 at a consignment shop for that fab dress.
2. Stare that item down. Look for loose threads, stains, tears or any signs of wear. If it rips on your big day, you have just wasted your money whether it be $5 or a million.
3. Bring a friend who is honest but not too chatty. Sometimes a chatty buddy will make you miss your deals. Yea, talking about the latest plastic surgery craze is fun (and sometimes funny as hell) BUT you just may walk out on a great steal cus you buddy wants to go to Starbucks.
4. Sell some stuff to gain some stuff. Look into making deals with your friends at the consignment store. Its Good Shopping Karma. Try the folks at the Buffalo Exchange: http://www.buffaloexchange.com/index.htm
5. Have Fun!

So there you have it!No need to spend thousands when you can just get it for less! Who says helping keep the world green is boring?