2023-03-29T19:15:22-04:00

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

March 29, 2023March 29, 2023/ToniOnThrifting.com/3 Comments

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

Women’s Club of White Plains – their pop-up sales are incredible!

November 27, 2022December 2, 2022/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

The Thrift Shop in White Plains had been in continuous operation since November 11, 1918. It had been the oldest thrift shop in New York State, possibly in the country. The idea of a Thrift Exchange, as it was called, grew out of the national desire to reuse and recycle items to aid the war effort. The original Thrift Exchange was held in the Tod Market on the corner of Court Street and Martine Avenue. The building is still in existence. In 1923 the Thrift Shop moved to a barn behind the old Preudhomme residence on Church Street. It remained at that location for 50 years until finally moving to its final place in the White Plains Presbyterian Church on North Broadway. The Shop was a 501c3 entity jointly owned by the Woman’s Club of White Plains, the Scarsdale Woman’s Club, and the Hitchcock Presbyterian Church in Scarsdale, with proceeds donated to local charities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thrift Shop of White Plains was forced to close its doors and was disbanded in 2022. The Woman’s Club of White Plains will continue the Thrift Shop of White Plains tradition and operate out of its clubhouse at 305 Ridgeway in White Plains. Credit: https://www.womansclubofwhiteplains.org/about.html

The Woman’s Club of White Plains has pop-ups throughout the year and a regular shopping day on Tuesdays from 10 am until 12 pm. Their next pop-up is on Saturday, December 3rd, from 9 am until 1 pm. The selections are all high quality and priced to sell. I cannot emphasize enough that these pop-ups are not to be missed. As for me, I have purchased some fantastic pieces that have become favorites in my wardrobe. Prices start at $4.00 (yes, $4.00) and upwards for the regular shop items, with high-end/boutique items more than reasonably priced. They also carry shoes, men’s and women’s winter clothing, and accessories. They have beautiful housewares and hosting serveware not to be missed. They will also be carrying high-end Christmas décor at the pop-up. The pictures shown are from one of their most recent pop-ups.

The volunteers are incredible, friendly, and helpful. They arrange areas for you to try on clothes (a major plus) and are devoted to raising money to help people in need in White Plains. I recently spoke to Judy Korman, Chair of the Thrift Shop and Marking, and I commend her on the great work the Woman’s Club of White Plains is doing and ALL the local charities that benefit from the work of these incredible women. Some of the previous recipients of their philanthropy include the White Plains Library, the YWCA, victims of domestic violence, and so many others.

There are also some fantastic and fun events to promote the thrift shop. They recently hosted a Sip & Swap where you can bring clothes and accessories to donate and take home donated items. They provide drinks and bites; if you are not a member, the great price is $10.00 for entry. I missed the last one but planned on being at the next one.

NEXT POP-UP – Saturday, December 3^rd

9 am until 1 pm

Woman’s Club of White Plains

305 Ridgeway

White Plains, New York 10605

(914) 948-0958

The New Canaan Thrift Shop is nothing short of amazing!

August 26, 2022December 20, 2022/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

The New Canaan Thrift Shop is remarkable, impressive, and unique in many ways. It is not just impressive because I found one of my all-time favorite bargains ($65), a Pottery Barn bedspread for a fraction of the cost. The quilt was something I had wanted for a while but was not willing to spend the $300 to buy it new. It was in excellent, nearly new condition, and I am thrilled with this purchase. It is also remarkable because every time I go there, The New Canaan Thrift Shop has a wide variety of merchandise that is nothing short of amazing. I commend the volunteers on the eye-catching displays and the boutique feel of the shop.

They have three levels and carry men’s, women’s, shoes, teens, children’s, babies, and toddlers’ clothes. They have an office section, a pet corner, luggage, linens, housewares and beautiful crystal, dinnerware, and serveware. Their clothes are reasonably priced for the names that you are getting. They carry Vineyard Vines, McLaughlin, Tory Burch, Coach, Ralph Lauren, and many other high-quality clothing brands, and their sales are great.

They have a fantastic selection of toys, games, puzzles, and children’s books. Their unique sports section contains golf clubs, skis, snowboards, lacrosse sticks, tennis racquets, ice skates, and other sports equipment – all good quality for a fraction of what you would pay in a sporting goods store.

What is impressive about the New Canaan Thrift Shop is that all the proceeds support the patient care Fund of Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Fairfield County, a member of the Waveny Lifecare Network. As someone whose family used hospice when my mom was sick, I know how incredible, compassionate, and kind the hospice community is. I am in awe of the New Canaan Thrift Shop for supporting and helping their community with their proceeds. While at the thrift shop, I was happy to meet with Stella Clarke, the Executive Director of Community Engagement and Volunteering. Stella is an extraordinary woman devoted to the Waveny Care Network and its mission to help families at the most challenging time of their lives. I commend Stella, Ulrike (Store Manager), and all the dedicated volunteers I met.

The history of the New Canaan Thrift Shop is fascinating. While 2 Locust Ave is not its original location, the building they are in now has quite a history. It was constructed in 1840 by prohibitionist Joseph Scofield. He wanted to lease the building to the Young Men’s Total Abstinence Society. That did not work as planned, as the movement did not go very far. And in 1856, Scofield sold the building to Russell Hall, who sold coffins and furniture, and for years, it was known as “The Old Morgue,” as it is historically known in New Canaan. The building was sold, and fast forward to 1928 when the building was sold to the Veterans Club. In 1930, The Visiting Nurse Association volunteer Thrift Shop was founded to raise funds to support the charitable mission by selling used clothing. So here we are almost a hundred years later, and they are still going strong and more vital than ever.

The New Canaan Thrift Shop is well worth a visit!

New Canaan Thrift Shop (https://www.loc8nearme.com/connecticut/new-canaan/new-canaan-thrift-shop/7027323/)

2 Locust Ave.

New Canaan, CT 06840

(203) 966-2361

Monday to Friday 12 pm – 4 pm

Saturday 9 am – 1 pm

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!!

Katonah Thrift Shop is always a good choice when thrift shopping in Westchester!

June 26, 2022June 26, 2022/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

The Katonah Thrift Shop is an excellent Westchester thrift shop circuit stop. They have a good selection of clothes, and the inventory is continually updated. I have a blast walking around and looking at the other items—fabric, light fixtures, antiques, and much more. I bought a gorgeous silver picture frame there the last visit for the meager price of $2.00. It was in perfect condition and went with my décor well. I enjoy looking through the housewares, and I have previously purchased some unique serving pieces that I love.

I spent my visit poring through the racks for this blog. Their selection of clothing is good and the prices reasonable. Both men’s and women’s and all sizes. The women’s section is more extensive and has a nice selection of formal and informal dresses. Their accessory section has various bags, scarves, belts, etc. The displays are well done. I am always pleasantly surprised to find some vintage clothing, among many other treasures.

The Katonah Women’s Civic Club runs the Katonah Thrift Shop. The thrift shop is in the basement of the beautiful historic Memorial House on Bedford Road. Currently, the thrift store is managed by Joan Kachmarik, Ursula Martin, and Bobbi Stanton and is fully staffed by members of the Civic Club. All proceeds from the thrift shop go to the Katonah Women’s Civic Club, established in 1918, and are distributed to numerous community organizations – too many to mention. While there, they had so many donation drop-offs that I could not get all the volunteers together for a photo.

I spoke to Bobbi Stanton (pictured), one of the managers, and she told me that she loves when the oldies are playing and sees people dancing and bopping in the store – Bobbi said it makes her happy and the shopping more fun for customers. She said that all the members love working there, and the thrift shop has a very loyal following with many returning customers.

Well worth a stop and highly rated, the Katonah thrift Shop is worth a visit if you haven’t been and a return visit if you have. You can follow KTS on Facebook.

The Katonah Thrift Shop

71 Bedford Road (next to the Firehouse)

Katonah, NY 10536

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 am until 2 pm

Until next time, Happy Thrifting!!

Let’s talk to a popular Poshmark seller, Janani Rose!

December 20, 2021/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

I spoke to Janani U, @jananirose, (https://poshmark.com/closet/jananirose) a Poshmark seller who has 1200 sales in her 4 years and 345 active listings. Here are some of the things that we talked about:

Tell me about your process so people know what goes into being a Poshmark seller?

One of the great things about Poshmark is that it is a platform set up for anyone, from a seasoned seller to someone just wanting to clear out their own closet. The ease of listing combined with the simplicity of shipping means that you don’t have to be “a reseller” in order to sell on Poshmark. For me as a full-time reseller, I source inventory at thrift stores, estate sales, yard sales, etc. I write descriptions for each item and include details that would help a potential buyer get a good understanding of the item, such as the closure (button, zipper, etc.) and if the fabric has stretch. Because sizing varies greatly across brands, I also include measurements for every item. I then take photographs, again trying to capture any details such as embroidery or graphics.

What advice do you have for buyers and sellers on Poshmark?

For buyers, I would say the most helpful thing when buying online is to know your own measurements. Sizing varies and knowing your own numbers will help give you the best idea as to how an item will fit. You can also use a garment you already own, measure that piece, and then use those measurements to compare with an item that you’re interested in. Also, ask questions! Sellers are more than happy to answer questions about the item. For new sellers who are just starting out, there’s no need to buy inventory at stores or yard sales – start with your own closet! Pick a few pieces that you haven’t worn in a while and use those as your first listed items. For new & seasoned sellers, being honest about the condition of the item is important. Buyers understand that if they’re buying a used piece of clothing, it might not be in pristine condition. Just do your best to explain and photograph any and all flaws. Take clear pictures, ship packages promptly, and, if possible, share your closet once a day.

How do you feel sales have been during the pandemic?

Poshmark, and online reselling in general, is one of those businesses where you get from it as much as you put in. For me, my sales ebbed and flowed with my own energy & time spent on the business. I did notice that formal wear, business/office wear, and high heels were not as popular. As people were working from home and not going to fancy functions, clothing became all about comfort.

Any advice you have for first-time shoppers on Poshmark?

Each selling platform has its own rules, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with Poshmark using their guide (found here: https://poshmark.com/posh_guide ) If you’re interested in an item, ask the seller questions if you have any, view all the photos and read through the description There is a “bundle” feature on Poshmark that is great to use – you add items from the same seller to your bundle and you can send one offer on all the items. As long as the bundle weighs less than 5 lbs., you only pay one shipping fee of $7.45; as a bonus, sellers are more likely to offer a higher discount and/or free shipping on bundle orders.

August 17th is National Thrift Shop Day!! Celebrate by shopping at one of your favorite thrift shops.

August 16, 2021/ToniOnThrifting.com/1 Comment

August 17th is National Thrift Shop Day. We all know that I think it should be a national holiday. I love my thrift shopping – both shopping and writing about it.

When you shop The Ridgefield Thrift Shop, My Sister’s Place, Salvation Army, Habitat For Humanity, Cauz For Pawz, Housing Works, and countless others, you are supporting PHENOMENAL causes and helping change countless lives.

In honor of National Thrift Shop day, here are some quick tips for thrift shopping:

Be friendly and ask the staff when the most new merchandise is put out.

Be kind when thrift shopping, most of the people who work at charitable thrift shops are volunteers and they have already spent hours filling the racks. If you are putting items back, put them back on the right rack.

Know your labels and brands – know what to invest in for your basic wardrobe pieces and what to buy for fun.

Don’t buy something just because it is your favorite brand, make sure you love the piece and will wear it.

Remember if you buy an item and it needs alterations, the alterations can cost two to three times what you paid. Choose wisely when buying a piece that needs to be altered.

The smaller thrift shops sometimes have the best buys.

ENJOY the hunt and know that you may not always find something. Just keep going back when you find a thrift shop you love.

Merchandise is also very geographical so go out of your own area and you will be surprised at how different (in a good way) the merchandise is.

I hope you find these tips helpful.

Thank you for reading – if you like my blogs, please like my Facebook page: TonionThrifting

Until next time, Happy Shopping

Fabulous Fashions and Consignments in Oxford, CT – what a wonderful surprise!

September 25, 2018/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

I came across Fabulous Fashions and Consignments in Oxford, Connecticut while I was on my way to visit family — what a wonderful surprise it was. It is stores like this that always surprise me the most. Jam packed with women’s clothing and accessories and a huge kitchen in the back filled with household goods. Great selections with plenty of good quality vintage. Actually the vintage pieces that I looked at were exceptional and priced accordingly. The day I was there, I came across some excellent sales. Summer shoes were $3.00, shorts and capris starting at $1.00, and dresses for $5.00. They carry the better labels in women’s clothing and all sizes including plus sizes. They have an extensive accessories department and one well worth visiting if you are in that area. The handbag selections were abundant and priced to sell.

I absolutely loved the jewelry selection.

I look forward to my next trip to see all their Fall fashions.

If you are in the area, I highly recommend!

Fabulous Fashions and Consignment
23 Oxford Rd., (Rte. 67)
Oxford, Connecticut 06478
(203) 828-6222

Hours:
Tuesday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm
Saturday& Sunday 9 am – 3 pm

August 17th is National Thrift Shop Day

August 17, 2018/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

August 17th is National Thrift Shop Day. We all know that I think it should be a national holiday. 🙂 I love my thrift shopping – both shopping and writing about it. I take great enjoyment out of the “hunt” and I have met some remarkable people along the way. Please remember when you shop My Sister’s Place, Goodwill, Salvation Army, Habitat For Humanity, Angel Street, Cauz For Pawz, Housing Works, Humane Society of New Rochelle and countless others, you are supporting PHENOMENAL causes and helping change countless lives. So on National Thrift Shop Day, please go out and shop, you will be supporting someone in need and helping the environment!! Every piece of clothing purchased second-hand means one less new one produced.

So in honor of National Thrift Shop Day, here are my top reasons why I love thrift shopping:

You are more than likely supporting a charity that helps people in need.

You are helping to save the environment.

Thrift shopping allows you to create your own style, be unique and try different things.

You are saving money.

Vintage pieces can make an outfit look spectacular.

You can decorate your home inexpensively.

You can housewares at a fraction off the cost.

You meet some amazing people along the way.

Thrift stores have sales too.

and….

The enjoyment I get from thrift shopping especially when I find a really special piece.

Happy National Thrift Shop Day!!

Thank you for reading – if you like my blogs, please like my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/tonionthrifting/

Until next time, Happy Shopping!

My Sister’s Place in Ansonia, CT – so much to tell and it’s all great!

August 15, 2018August 16, 2018/ToniOnThrifting.com/Leave a comment

When I first walked in to My Sister’s Place in Ansonia, Connecticut it reminded me of just how much I love thrift shopping especially when it benefits those desperately in need. My Sister’s Place is not only a top-notch thrift store that has a GREAT selection of merchandise; the best part is that all proceeds support BHcare’s The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services.

There is so much to tell you about. First, the store. All the merchandise is meticulously laid out which in itself is quite impressive. They have a wide variety of stock and it is all in size order which makes it even easier to shop and that much more enjoyable browsing. They have men, women, children’s clothing, and shoes. Also, they carry appliances, housewares, furniture, toys, and other items at more than fair prices. All merchandise is in new or nearly new condition. They carry both regular and high-end merchandise. I did not see one item that I thought was overpriced and all pricing was in line for what the better thrift stores are charging.

I hope that my pictures tell the story of what a great shop this is.

I was able to score two brand new One World tops with tags on for $12 each plus a brand spanking new Talbot’s sundress with tags on for ONLY $22 (retail tag was $129). Also, A long beige cardigan (new) for $10 and a couple other miscellaneous items, all at excellent prices. Now I don’t know about you, but we thrifters consider that a great haul!

And you MUST check out their online store. https://supportumbrella.org/. They have quite the selection. Never underestimate online thrift stores, there are always good surprises especially for collectors! They are on Ebay too at ebay.com/usr/mysistersplace203

And now for the fun info:

My Sister’s Place is having Flea Market Flip on October 14, 2018 where you can meet Mark DeVito, Master Craftsman from HGTV’s Flea Market Flip!

My Sister’s Place Flea Market Flip is a fun, creative twist on recycling or upcycling similar to the HGTV show with the same name, Flea Market Flip. Proceeds from each item will be benefit The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services. Individual participants or teams of two must purchase their flip item(s) at MSP for $50 or less by September 30. Registration forms are available at the store and must be completed at the time of purchase. No more than $50 may be spent on repurposing/upcycling the item(s). Receipts must be shown when submitting the repurposed item. The Flea Market Flip Rules are on their website at http://bhcare.org/page/29568.
October 14, 2018
11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Ansonia Armory
25 N Cliff Street
Ansonia, CT

The proceeds from My Sister’s Place go to The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services (UCDVS) which is dedicated to increasing awareness of domestic violence and its effect on the community, empowering those victimized by providing advocacy and safe and effective services, and to working for social change to eliminate domestic violence. UCDVS provides services for victims and their children at two sites located in Ansonia and East Haven. All services offered are free of charge and confidential. Services support 170 different languages 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

PLEASE — when you are in the Ansonia area, you must stop in, I promise it will be worth it and I hope you enjoy your visit as much as I enjoyed mine. The staff is phenomenal — all volunteers and for such a worthy cause.

My Sister’s Place is located at 380 Main Street, Ansonia, CT.
Phone:
203-734-2960
Store Hours:
Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs., Fri. & Sat – 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sun. – 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Here is the website which has even more information – http://bhcare.org/page/16633

If you enjoyed this blog, please like my Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/tonionthrifting/

Until next time, HAPPY SHOPPING!!

Fantastic Finds – Everything Old is New Again …and Worth a Look!

May 29, 2018/ToniOnThrifting.com/1 Comment

Everything old is new again! The old Discovery Shop in Chappaqua was good but I must say that I am enjoying its reincarnation all the more. I stepped into Fantastic Finds and it certainly lives up to its name. A 75% off Fall clothing sale was going on when I visited. I walked out with a couple of great buys; a pair of Talbot’s pants for $5 and a Tahari dress/duster for $7.50 plus a couple of other staples. But even without the sale, this is definitely one of the better upscale resale shops in the Westchester/Putnam area. They carry men’s and women’s clothing, jewelry, scarves, handbags and other accessories. I think they have a excellent selection of brand name merchandise with some high end merchandise as well. Their Spring collection was excellent. They also carry household items such as small accent furniture, housewares, china (quite beautiful too), home décor, and musical instruments. I thoroughly enjoyed looking through the art. Actually, I had a great time browsing through the store, there was just so much to see.

As far as pricing, I find it comparable and slightly cheaper than other UPSCALE shops that are similar to Fantastic Find. All the merchandise is in PRISTINE condition and there are certainly gift quality selections to be found. I hope that the pictures tell a much better story of what Fantastic Finds is all about!

What is wonderful is that all proceeds from sales at Fantastic Finds will benefit Support Connection, an organization that provides free, year-round breast and ovarian cancer support services. They rely on your donations to provide free programs and support services. 88¢ of every dollar donated goes directly to fund these critically needed services.

Check out Fantastic Finds – I promise it’s worth the trip!

Fantastic Finds

400 King Street (former site of the Discovery Shop)

Chappaqua, NY

Phone: 914-238-9200

Email: fantastic.finds@supportconnection.org

Shopping Hours:

Monday – Saturday 10 am – 4:30 pm.

Until next time, Happy Shopping!!

ToniOnThrifting