Issue date: 10/16/07 Section: Features

Media Credit: Rachel Bujalski Thrift stores in the area provide a great place to shop for interesting clothes not easily found in retail stores.

As most college students know, funds needed to obtain their ideal wardrobe and decorations are lacking. Ever mindful of their surroundings, students, as well as locals, turn to resale shops for the latest in used clothes.

"As times go on, it's not as thrifty as it used to be," Monica Carson, manager of the Salvation Army Family Store, said. "It used to be so affiliated with getting stuff off the floor and digging around, but now it's more organized, like a regular store."

The Salvation Army Family Store has been in its downtown Bloomington location for about 20 years. Carson noted that in her time managing, the store has evolved.

"People have seen some great changes," Carson said.

In addition to organizing the store better, Carson explained that people are becoming more selective in what they buy.

"We won't put it out unless it's in good, usable condition," Carson said.

While locals do shop at the resale stores, owners and managers across town agreed that a good majority of their customers are students.

"We definitely have a big, fair share of students on a regular basis," Carson said. "They're really into retro items that you can't find in big department stores."

"I look for suit jackets, old ties and funny screen t-shirts," Josh Sukow, a senior park and recreation major, said.

Sometimes students are not shopping for serious clothes items, as managers can confirm.

"A lot of times they come in for goofy things," Kathi Davis, manager of Bromenn Thrift Shop, said. "October is a big month for us because of Halloween."

Others shop at resale stores for economical and ecological reasons.

"I prefer to buy clothes used," Kari Irwin, a Bloomington resident, said. "They're cheaper and it's less wasteful."

Other resale shops have items targeted at college students, but draw in an older crowd.

"Because my market is so varied, there are definitely junior and young adult brands in here," Michelle Bowars, owner of Penelope's Fine Women's Resale in Bloomington, said. "If you look, they're all in there for you."

Continued...

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