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ToniOnThrifting – Thrift Shopping Made Simple

Explore Affordable Thrift Shopping in Westchester County – Part 2 — February 1, 2026

Explore Affordable Thrift Shopping in Westchester County – Part 2

As promised, here is part 2 of our guide to affordable thrift shopping in Westchester County. In this second installment, we continue exploring the best thrift stores in the area. Whether you’re searching for specific items or just browsing, Westchester is a top spot for sustainable, budget-friendly fashion. Grab your reusable bags—it’s time to discover what’s next on our thrifting journey.

St. Luke’s Thrift Shop

 — 327 NY-100, Somers, NY 10589

https://slcsomers.org/saint-luke%E2%80%99s-thrift-shop

I’ve always found myself buying something whenever I visit St. Luke’s Thrift Shop. I enjoy exploring the racks, and their sales are always exciting. The staff is very welcoming, and there’s a wide selection to choose from. I highly recommend stopping by St. Luke’s Thrift Shop. While you’re there, don’t miss visiting Yorktown Love in Action, which is conveniently located nearby in Yorktown.

Women’s Club of White Plains

 — 305 Ridgeway, White Plains, NY 10605

https://www.womansclubofwhiteplains.org/thrift

Visit the website to register for their Pop-Up Sales; they consistently deliver a great experience and attract a good crowd. They are also open on Tuesdays but check the website for details. All income from sales at the Thrift Store goes directly to the Woman’s Club of White Plains Foundation’s philanthropies, including its Scholarship Program. 

That Nothing Be Lost – St Christopher’s at Graymoor

 — 16 Franciscan Way, Garrison, NY 10524

Browsing here feels almost magical. Situated in one of Graymoor’s oldest buildings, built in 1916, in Garrison, New York, it faces St. Christopher’s Inn, a temporary homeless shelter dedicated to helping men in crisis. The store’s proceeds go toward supporting St. Christopher’s Inn and its residents. 

Hilltop Thrift Shop

 — 55 Cedar St., Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522

Hilltop Thrift Shop was named Best Under-the-Radar Thrift Shop by Westchester Magazine. Need I say more?

You do have to sign up for an appointment to shop. Here is the link:

https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/27003375573136035/false#/invitation

St Gregory’s Thrift & Gift Shoppe

 — 1131 North St., White Plains, NY

I truly enjoy visiting the thrift shop at St. Gregory the Enlightener Armenian Church, operated by The Women’s Guild. They offer beautiful china and serving pieces, as well as many other delightful items. All are high-quality and reasonably priced.

Rye Presbyterian Thrift Shop

 — 882 Boston Post Rd., Rye, Ny 10580

https://ryepc.com/ministries/thrift-shop/?fbclid=IwY2xjawPqEEVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFRbk1xR2VaTnBZRjJneWtRc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHnWbFivgRTQVgKCRgODZUQ9DREnbSP_S2_tfaicijOZdtSrSAt8BjSwbS9tr_aem_cQXaGTJT50mAcjpzId8SPg

No clothes, but rooms filled with excellent merchandise – artwork, china, jewelry, housewares, home décor, small furniture, linens, seasonal decorations, and much more. They hold occasional evening sales, so be sure to sign up for their newsletter. 

All Saints’ Second Chance Thrift Shop

 — 288 Harrison Ave., Harrison, NY 10528

https://www.allsaintsharrison.org/thrift-shop

Operated by parish and community volunteers, this great shop provides gently used items at affordable prices, including kitchenware, home décor, knick-knacks, women’s and children’s clothing, books, CDs, toys, and much more. Additionally, they host the Angel Fair Holiday Market, which I always attend!

Thrifty Me Thrift Shop – Phone: (914) 962-5758.

 — 1974 Commerce Street, Room 113, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598

Thrifty Me is a well-established thrift store run by volunteers, situated in Room 107 of the Albert A. Capellini Community & Cultural Center in Yorktown, NY. It opens on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 am to noon, serving the local community and often hosting special events such as annual holiday boutiques that raise funds for the local food pantry. 

Golden Shoestring

 — 149 Larchmont Ave, Larchmont, NY 10538

https://westchesteronthesound.jl.org/gss/

Operating in Larchmont, NY, for over 60 years, this nonprofit resale boutique is the primary fundraiser for the Junior League of Westchester on the Sound. The funds collected fund community grants and scholarships. The shop is well-known for its gently used designer clothing, a broad range of shoes, and housewares.

Katonah Thrift Shop

 — 71 Bedford Rd., Katonah, NY 10536

https://www.facebook.com/katonahthriftshop/

Katonah Thrift Shop is filled with a variety of treasures. All proceeds benefit the Women’s Civic Club, which was founded in 1918 in historic Katonah. The store features a wide range of items, such as clothing, bags, musical instruments, jewelry, kitchenware, housewares, antiques, and more.

St. Thomas Church Thrift Shop

 — 168 West Boston Post Rd, Mamaroneck, NY 10543

https://www.saintthomasmmrk.org/thrift_shop

What began in the early 1990s as an “ongoing rummage sale” organized by dedicated parishioners has grown into a major event that showcases generosity and community spirit in Mamaroneck. St. Thomas offers a wide variety of items for sale, including women’s clothing, china and glassware, small appliances, cutlery, men’s suits, linens, jewelry, and more.

IFCA Thrift Shop

 — 95 Croton Ave., Ossining, NY 10562

https://www.ifcany.org/thrift-shop#:~:text=The%20Thrift%20Shop%20has%20moved,sells%20new%20and%20gently%20used

IFCA’s neighborhood thrift shop sells new and gently used items, including clothing, shoes, bedding, dishes, pots and pans, costume jewelry, and handbags, at very affordable prices.

The Community Shop

196 Katonah Ave., Katonah, NY

https://www.communitycenternw.org/community-shop

The Community Shop offers a curated selection of gently-used clothing, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices. This collection supports the vital programs of the Community Center of Northern Westchester.

Please check the website or contact each thrift shop directly to check their days and hours of operation.

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

Thrift Store Secrets: Essential Tips for 2026 — January 19, 2026

Thrift Store Secrets: Essential Tips for 2026

In 2026, thrift shopping has transformed from a casual hobby into a critical survival strategy for budget-conscious consumers. However, this surge in demand—fueled by social media and sustainability trends—has also pushed thrift store prices higher. Although I’ve mentioned some of these tips before, they deserve reiteration.

To keep your costs down while still finding high-quality “hidden gems,” follow these expert strategies for smart thrifting in 2026.

  1. Master the New Pricing Algorithms

Modern thrift stores use sophisticated, data-driven pricing methods that set prices by brand and condition, moving beyond simple flat-rate pricing.

  • Avoid “Boutique” Racks: curated sections tend to have higher markups. Instead, browse the general racks for overlooked high-quality brands that the store’s software may have missed.
  • Understand the Color Tag System: Many stores implement a weekly color-coded discount scheme. Focusing on scanning the “50% off” tag of the week is the best way to outsmart current price increases.

2. Time Your Trips Strategically

Competition for quality inventory is at an all-time high in 2026.

  • Shop during Restock Days: Inquire with staff about when they usually release the largest batches of new inventory. Arriving early on these days allows you to select high-value items before resellers arrive.
  • Go “Off-Season”: Buy winter coats in July and swimsuits in January. While others pay full price for current-season items, you’ll enjoy significant discounts on out-of-season stock.

3. Focus on “Inflation-Proof” Materials

Synthetic fast-fashion products often end up in thrift stores, but they tend to lose value. By 2026, true value will be based on natural, long-lasting fibers.

  • The Big Four: Be aware of wool, cotton, silk, and linen. Due to rising production costs and tariffs expected by 2026, these materials are increasingly expensive to buy new.
  • Inspect the hardware by checking zippers, buttons, and seams. If a high-quality item has a small defect, such as a missing button, it is usually priced significantly lower and can often be repaired easily at home.

4. Optimize Your Neighborhood Choices

Where a store is located often dictates the quality of its donations.

  • Stores located in wealthy neighborhoods often receive donations of luxury designer brands and furniture from individuals who prioritize giving over resale value.
  • Specialized Shops: Seek out mission-driven stores like Out of the Closet or Value World, which generally provide lower prices compared to bigger national chains.

5. Leverage 2026 Trends to Your Advantage

As certain aesthetics peak, others become more affordable.

  • The Y2K and Chrome Revival: While early 2000s decor and chrome accents are trendy and often pricey, more budget-friendly choices could include classic mid-century or 1990s “minimalist” items.
  • Buy for longevity instead of fleeting trends: To address increasing costs, prioritize classic, timeless staples that will last longer and don’t require frequent replacement.

Quick Checklist for 2026 Thrifting:

  • Establish a firm budget in advance to avoid fatigue from constantly chasing deals.
  • Maintain a continuous list on your phone of items you genuinely need to avoid impulse purchases.

Please check out my Facebook page, tonionthrifting, for articles and tips I researched from various sources. Also, I post some great information on thrift shops in the NYC, Westchester, and Connecticut area.

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

Why Gen Z Loves Depop for Secondhand Fashion! — December 28, 2025

Why Gen Z Loves Depop for Secondhand Fashion!

Founded in 2011 by Simon Beckerman, Depop is a London-based social e-commerce platform that has become central to Gen Z’s fashion culture. Often compared to a blend of Instagram and eBay, it allows users to buy and sell secondhand clothes through an engaging interface where they can “like” items and follow their favorite sellers. By 2025, Depop has grown to over 43 million registered users and has surpassed $5 billion in sales since its inception. It remains an independent subsidiary of Etsy, which acquired it in 2021 for approximately $1.6 billion to tap into the thriving resale market. 

The platform’s success largely stems from its focus on circular fashion and unique styles like “sleaze academia” and “cottagecore,” which have become trendy on TikTok and Instagram. To stay competitive in 2025, Depop has simplified the selling process by removing traditional selling fees for users in the US and UK, while standard payment fees still apply. Sellers are advised to upload high-quality, attractive photos and use detailed tags to boost visibility through the app’s AI-driven curation system. Despite its popularity, the platform emphasizes safety and community support by offering tools like the Depop Safety Centre to protect users and ensure secure transactions. https://news.depop.com/company-news/depop-launches-new-safety-centre.

Now let’s talk to Catherine G., a teenager from Brooklyn, about Depop.

How often do you use Depop?
I visit the website daily to browse new items and check if any of mine have sold. I enjoy scrolling through to see the latest arrivals.

Do you buy and sell items? How do you find the prices?
Yes, for both aspects. I rely on Google Lens to determine fair prices for my items

What do you like most about Depop?
I appreciate that Depop aligns with my interests and features the fashion I find most appealing.

Do you also use Poshmark or other resale platforms?
No, I always discover what I like and need on Depop.

Any tips for new Depop users?
Yes, be cautious of scams, and if you have any doubts, always consult the Depop Safety Centre.

Do you feel that using Depop helps the environment?
Yes, because we can give items new life instead of letting them end up in landfills.

Catherine G. provided valuable insights into Depop. Teenagers like using Depop because it turns traditional thrifting into a social and entrepreneurial activity influenced by social media, fitting their values and style. Often likened to a combination of Instagram and eBay, it presents a visually appealing grid where users can like, comment, and follow their favorite curated shops. For a generation that values sustainability, Depop offers a responsible alternative to fast fashion, encouraging a “circular” economy and the hunt for unique Y2K or vintage pieces that match their style. Besides shopping, the app encourages teens to become small entrepreneurs by selling items from their bedrooms, with some top sellers earning enough for financial independence before college. Overall, Depop is a vibrant community where fashion acts as a means of self-expression and social activism. 

Thank you, Catherine G.

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

Eco-Friendly Halloween Costumes: Thrift Store Tips — October 16, 2025

Eco-Friendly Halloween Costumes: Thrift Store Tips

Buying Halloween costumes from a thrift store provides a fun, affordable, and eco-friendly alternative to buying new, single-use outfits. Many packaged Halloween costumes are made from cheap synthetic materials, mainly plastics like polyester and nylon. Usually worn once and then thrown away, over 83% of these costumes are made from plastics that can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills. Their short usage period adds to the larger waste problem caused by fast fashion.

Here are some advantages of thrifting for your Halloween costume. You can save money because thrift stores sell clothing at much lower prices, letting you craft a great costume without overspending. Instead of paying $50 for a flimsy, packaged costume, you can find durable, high-quality items for a fraction of the cost. This is especially a smart choice for families with kids who quickly outgrow their costumes.

Unleash your creativity! While packaged costumes offer limited choices, a thrift store is a treasure trove of inspiration for creating unique and personalized outfits. Treasure hunting in thrift stores can be fun; you never know what might spark your next idea. Think creatively and combine unexpected items—like turning a vintage dress into a zombie prom queen or using a flannel shirt as part of a lumberjack or scarecrow costume.

Here are some ideas on thrifting a Halloween costume

  • Have a costume idea, but be open to unexpected finds that could lead to something even better.
  • Check the accessories, props, and toy sections for key finishing touches like hats, scarves, jewelry, and wigs.
  • Build a base with solid-colored shirts or pants and then add details.
  • Go with easy-to-create thrifted costumes like a scarecrow, a ‘70s disco star, a vampire, or a ghost.
  • Go thrifting with friends or family to make the experience more fun and creative.

Go green and cut waste. Buying secondhand gives a used item a second life and prevents it from ending up in a landfill. You also reduce your carbon footprint by lowering the demand for new production, which consumes a lot of energy and water. Thrifting supports the “circular economy” by keeping clothing in use longer. A thrifted costume is a guilt-free way to enjoy the holiday. It’s a chance to celebrate with a unique, budget-friendly, and earth-conscious outfit, making Halloween less scary for your wallet and the planet.

Let’s reduce, reuse, and recycle. Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

W. 26th St. in Chelsea is Thrift Row, the place to be for buying and selling vintage. — May 11, 2025

W. 26th St. in Chelsea is Thrift Row, the place to be for buying and selling vintage.

When in Chelsea, I highly recommend that you go to W. 26th St. for an abundance (and I mean abundance) of thrift and vintage opportunities, both buying and selling.

Each one of these stores is fabulous and has loads of vintage t-shirts, clothing, shoes, sneakers, and accessories. They all have a broad range of clothes and shoes in New York City at appropriate prices. AND in each store, you will find unique vintage pieces. Also, all these stores carry on-trend clothing, and these pieces are priced appropriately. We all have different tastes. Our styles look very different. So, it is a personal choice as to which shop will be your favorite. You will definitely find merchandise you like. It will be in one of these stores. I found a few items that I could not leave without.

Here are some of the stores that I visited:

Crossroads Trading
@crossroadtrading
24 West 26th St
Crossroadtrading.com

If you want to sell clothes, Crossroads has an app that tells you the number of sellers ahead of you. If you do not have time to wait, they have a 48-hour drop-off selling service and a sell-by-mail service.

Buffalo Exchange
@buffaloexchange
114 West 26th St
Buffaloexchange.com

They also have a text notification system that alerts sellers about their place in line, so you can trade for store credit.

Garage Sale Vintage
@garagesale_vintage
122 West 26th St
Gargarsalevintage.com

I can only say this is one of the most fabulous vintage shops I’ve ever been in. Garage Sale Vintage has a great vibe and a fantastic selection( there is even a record section), and it is a great space that offers a great shopping experience. This is a must-see stop on Thrift Row. See their website for details on the store and the more fun events at the shop

Thrift NYC
@thriftnycchelsea
150 West 26th St.

Thrift NYC has an excellent reputation for having the friendliest and most helpful staff and an excellent selection. It is well worth the trip.

2nd Street Chelsea
@secondstreetusa
142 West 26th St
ec.2ndstreetusa.com

They have stores nationwide, and with 250K followers, they are very popula

Flamingos Vintage Pound
110 West 26th St

Flamingos Vintage Pound is incredible. You must stop in to feel the vibe and see all the clothes. The staff is chill and very helpful—a great way to shop.

Goodwill
103 West 25th St.
Goodwillnynj.org

Goodwill is also around the corner, and their prices and variety were great. How can you not stop at Goodwill if it is right there?

Do not forget, if you go on a Saturday or Sunday. Do not miss the Chelsea flea market at 29 W. 25th St. between Sixth Avenue and Broadway. I promise it is worth going, even to browse. They are open 8 AM to 5 PM year-round.

Please remember sustainability and the importance of REDUCE, REUSE, AND RECYCLE!

Visit my Facebook page for local sales in Westchester County.

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

The Habitat NYC and Westchester Restore in Yonkers just celebrated its first anniversary, and they have much to celebrate. — October 30, 2024

The Habitat NYC and Westchester Restore in Yonkers just celebrated its first anniversary, and they have much to celebrate.

After visiting the Habitat NYC and Westchester Restore in Yonkers, New York, I can see why. The store is jam-packed with furniture, appliances, building materials, kitchen cabinets, paint, home décor, and more. These are overstock and second-hand high-quality items donated to the Restore, all at 50 to 80% off original retail pricing. They have an additional store in Queens. The merchandise is quite impressive, with so many options. Join their Facebook page to see new items posted for sale: Their page is Habitat NYC and Westchester Restore.

If you or someone you know is getting their first home, first apartment, going back to school, or tragically, a victim of floods or fire, this is the place to get furniture and other home supplies at a fraction of what you would pay at a retailer. I saw beautiful couches, loveseats, and chairs: paint, some hardware, appliances, and lots of home décor. The staff is accommodating and kind. On. A recent weekend, I was in the store where families bought furniture and other items, and everything was seamless. It was busy, but each person/group received the staff’s undivided attention.

I spoke to Harris (pictured), the manager, who is equally passionate about Habitat for Humanity New York City, Westchester, and the ReStore. You can tell by going through the store how much Harris and everyone who works there cares about what they do and the people they do it for.

More about the Habitat for Humanity NYC and Westchester. Habitat NYC and Westchester create, preserve, and advocate for healthy, affordable homes and the generational equity-building opportunities homeownership provides.

Here are some great ways that you can get involved and help Habitat for Humanity:

Donate:

Whether you’re renovating your home, cleaning out your garage, downsizing or decluttering, Habitat NYC and Westchester’s ReStore will pick up and remove your gently used furniture, building materials, appliances, cabinetry, countertops, and household items. Pick-up is available!

Shop:

For your next DIY project, shop at the Habitat ReStore! You’ll be able to purchase necessary items at a steep discount, and your purchase will help Habitat NYC and Westchester build more homes.

Volunteer:

Join the team as a ReStore volunteer! It’s a perfect fit for community members interested in retail sales, interior design, or do-it-yourself projects and people simply interested in making a difference in the community. Volunteer opportunities include helping as a retail associate, doing donation pick-ups, refinishing furniture, and much more.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. I loved all the items on display and the store’s vibe and feel. I admire that the ReStore has diverted over 3,000 tons of waste from landfills. Do you need a better reason to shop the Restore than helping save the planet and help families in need? You can shop at either the Yonkers or Queens location. Both have outstanding merchandise.

Visit the website at http://www.habitatnycwc.org for more information and their hours of operation.

Westchester Restore                                                                         NYC Restore

470 Nepperhan Ave                                                                            62-01 Northern Blvd

Yonkers, NY 10701                                                                              Queens, NY 11377

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

Here are some of my favorite quotes about thrift shopping that I love! — January 7, 2024

Here are some of my favorite quotes about thrift shopping that I love!

Happy New Year! I wanted to share with you some of my favorite quotes on thrift shopping! I hope that you enjoy them!

Thrift shopping is all about going into the thrift shop and having no expectation of what you might find.

Macklemore

My mom passed on her obsession of all things antique or vintage. I love to go thrift store shopping or explore any sort of garage sale. Treasure hunting is a family passion.

Zoey Deutch


Thrift shopping is really just an extension of me being that same kid and going into a place that’s completely unconventional that has really endless possibilities in terms of outfits that you can put together and really just expressing yourself.

Macklemore

I love thrift shopping. You can get ten things because everything costs, like, three dollars.

Lorde

I might wear skinny pants one day; I might wear thrift shop pants the next day.

Post Malone

I am a theater girl, and a lot of theater girls dress however pleases them. I wear whatever looks good on me. I wear what I wear because I have been shopping at thrift stores since I was five.

Kirsten Vangsness

The whole thing of clothes is insane. You can spend a dollar on a jacket in a thrift store. And you can spend a thousand dollars on a jacket in a shop. And if you saw those two jackets walking down the street, you probably wouldn’t know which was which.

Helen Mirren

Thank you, Brainy Quote, for the above quotes!

And here are three more:

Natalie Joos
On her advice for new vintage shoppers: “Never shop for something specific. Just browse. Don’t expect to find what you were looking for. It never works. Either go for cool pieces that stand out and are unique (you will keep them longer) or go for the big designer pieces that will last you a lifetime. Don’t buy things you know you will dispose of. Try stuff on. Vintage was made for smaller people. But don’t be afraid to buy things too big. Alterations are common when buying vintage. You don’t want to miss a cool piece just because it’s too big. Too small is not recommended!” —Elle, February 2013

Winona Ryder
“Most of my wardrobe is vintage and I’ve worn dresses to the Oscars that I got for $10. At Sean Penn’s last Haiti gala I wore this vintage dress that I’d worn to a film premiere in 2005. I know that’s kind of a no-no in the fashion world, but why wear something just once if you love it?” —Red, April 2014

Tracee Ellis Ross
“I buy a lot of vintage because, well, it’s AMAZING! And truthfully you can get great stuff for not a lot of money. I have a passion for vintage clothing because of the quality and uniqueness of the pieces (you don’t really have to worry about showing up in the same outfit as someone else). To update some of my vintage finds or sometimes just to make them fit, I have the help of a fabulous seamstress and dressmaker, Daniela Kurrle. She really is stupendous and our collaborations have resulted in some of my favorite dresses in my closet.” —her site, February 2013

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

The Outreach Clothing Sale at the Church of St. Barnabas- One of the most popular sales in Westchester! — November 4, 2023

The Outreach Clothing Sale at the Church of St. Barnabas- One of the most popular sales in Westchester!

The Outreach Clothing Sale has become one of the most popular and well-attended sales in Westchester County. This is because they have high-quality clothing at bargain basement prices. The sale opens to the public on Wednesday, November 8th, and I assure you that there will be a long line starting early in the morning. It is well worth it to get the best merchandise. I have always found that I get the most for my money at this sale. This sale includes men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. It covers a few rooms and has a boutique rack with designer and vintage items. The pictures featured are for next week’s sale!

This is also one sale where the men’s section is just as phenomenal as the women’s. Everything from tee shirts, shorts, polos, long and short-sleeve tops, sweaters, coats and jackets, pants and jeans, and so much more. And when you go, you must visit the shoe section. I purchased some nice boots a couple of years ago.

I spoke to Linda Pierpont, one of the founders of the sale and a parishioner for 34 years. The first sale was in 1995. It has grown significantly yearly, and the sale proceeds have reached over one million dollars. Just a few of the dozens of organizations that have received grants from St. Barnabas include ARC Westchester Foundation, Blthyedale Children’s Hospital, Greenburgh Nature Center, Irvington Senior Citizen Center, New Rochelle Humane Society, Phelps Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation and that is to name a few.

Linda said that two of the most significant aspects of the Outreach Clothing sale are the sustainability factor, which keeps clothes out of landfills and gives them new purpose, and the fact that she gets to work with such outstanding people with a common goal in mind of helping the planet and others. Linda also wanted me to mention that donations for this sale far exceeded last year’s donations, and there will be some great finds for all.

If you go to only a few sales a year, I must insist you take advantage of this one!! I hope the pictures give you an idea of what an extraordinary sale this is!!

For those who donated to the sale, the preview day is Tuesday, November 7th – keep that in mind so next year you contribute to get in that extra day early!!!!

2023 Outreach Clothing Sale

The Church of St. Barnabas

15 North Broadway

Irvington, New York

Wednesday, November 8:              10:00 am – 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Thursday, November 9:                  10:00 am – 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Friday, November 10:                     10:00 am – 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Saturday, November 11:                10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Don’t miss this sale, and until next time, Happy Thrifting!

The Back Door Thrift Shop – Bargains Galore! — August 21, 2023

The Back Door Thrift Shop – Bargains Galore!

I have another great treasure for you in White Plains. The Back Door Thrift Shop on Greenridge Avenue is a real gem and one that you should visit. They have a variety of men’s and women’s clothing. They carry shoes, housewares, costume jewelry, accessories, home décor, and various other items. The clothing they sell varies from new to gently worn to vintage. The Back Door Thrift Shop has set pricing which to me is a great big plus in any thrift store. I will say that on each visit that I have made, I have walked out with at least two or three items of clothing. They DO NOT sell children’s toys, clothes, games, or accessories nor do they sell books.

What the Back Door Thrift Shop primarily does is price their clothing to accommodate people in the local community struggling so they have a place where they can buy nice clothing at very affordable prices. They also cater to the true “thrifties” like me who love to shop at places like this. The business has been steadily picking up with many of their long-term customers returning and through word of mouth (and hopefully this blog) they will attract a whole new clientele. They have customers that come from Brooklyn monthly (impressive as there is no shortage of thrift shops in Brooklyn) to see what the Back Door’s latest merchandise is.

I was able to sit down with Wendy, Chair of the Thrift Shop Committee who has been a volunteer at the thrift shop for eleven years and a member of the Hebrew Institute for 30 years. We talked about the Back Door Thrift Shop and its history. The Back Door Thrift Shop has been in existence for over 40 years. In 2019, the Hebrew Institute (home of the Back Door Thrift Shop) began a renovation/rebuild and they had to close. They had moved to a temporary location just a few blocks away and then Covid happened, and they had to close the temporary location.  The shop was reopened in January 2023 in their completely renovated place (beautiful, spacious, and bright) which includes ground level direct entrance which is ADA compliant. Wendy collaborates closely with Deborah, a former Chair, and other committee members, to create an amazing shop and shopping experience which makes it a great team effort.

Proceeds from the shop are used to support synagogue programs and activities for youth, adults, families, and seniors plus it helps bring in outside scholars and lecturers.  They are always looking for donations that can be donated during shop hours. See the website for specific donation details.

I think that you will love the Back Door Thrift Shop so help me spread the word because they are doing so much for so many!

The Back Door Thrift Shop

20 Greenridge Ave

White Plains, NY 10605

Website: https://www.hiwp.org/thrift_shop

914-948-3095 ext. 301

Email:  thriftshop@hiwp.org

HOURS: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
10am-2pm

Sundays reopening starting on October15 10am – 2pm

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!

The Turnover Shop in Wilton, Connecticut – I can’t wait to go back! — March 29, 2023

The Turnover Shop in Wilton, Connecticut – I can’t wait to go back!

What makes The Turnover Shop different from other thrift shops is that they consign clothes as well as sell donated clothes. This makes The Turnover Shop a well-visited destination for thrift shop lovers. Located in the center of Wilton, CT, and open six days a week, Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 1 PM, it continually gains popularity and has a high turnover rate. They carry a full line of women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing, shoes, antiques, housewares, games, books, jewelry, and small furnishings.

I went through racks and racks of clothing and found a beautiful sweater, jacket, and a couple of other household items, and I spent at most $30. They also happened to have a phenomenal sale, which made it easy. The shoe selection alone was too tempting, not to mention the jewelry and accessories. I know I was not alone because the store was crowded during my visit.

I had the pleasure of speaking to Sharon Sobel, the President of the Turnover Shop. She told me that what makes the Turnover Shop special is that customers who consign can donate the proceeds of their sales to a non-profit of their choice if that organization opens a consignment account to receive the funds. It is a great way to support a favorite local charity.  The Turnover Shop donates proceeds from their store sales to many organizations, such as the PTA of Wilton, Visiting Nurse & Hospice, CT Humane Society, and ABC House, to name a few. All the volunteers love working at the Turnover Shop and look forward to their shifts there. I had a lovely visit with Sharon and saw the store. You can see that they have a very loyal customer base, and people are happy to shop there and are friendly with the staff.

Here is some history from their website: Founded over 75 years ago by a group of volunteers dedicated to serving the community’s needs, The Turnover has kept that tradition of service and generosity alive as we have evolved to help each generation. Our hard work reflects every lifestyle and fashion, and our current team of over 130 volunteers remains committed to the prospect of always being creative and innovative. Thousands of satisfied customers continue to validate their hard work.

A visit to the Turnover Shop should be on your must-see thrift shop list.

The Turnover Shop

98 Old Ridgefield Road 

Wilton, CT 06897

Phone: 203.762.3160

Monday – Friday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Saturday –  10 AM to 1 PM