Five area thrift and consignment shops to freshen up your wardrobe
By Vivienne Machi, Staff Writer
It's never a bad time of year to take a hard look in your closet and do a thorough cleaning, whether it's as winter turns to spring or as the leaves prepare to fall to the ground. We all have those pieces we still cling to year after year, hoping we'll have an occasion to wear it while it gathers mothballs behind our winter coats, but the good news is waving goodbye to past pieces opens the door for new treasures, and the Miami Valley is a mecca for curating new styles on a budget.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of thrift shops and consignment stores, but enough to get the ball rolling. Let us know your favorite place to drop off your former threads and shop for new outfits in the comments.
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1. Clash Dayton
Photo by Vivienne MachiFor those who like to live life on the edge, Clash is the clothing store-cum-art gallery where you can score a sugar-skull-print romper, a handmade steam punk-inspired gear pendant, and some locally sourced essential oils, to boot. While the store now only buys clothing and jewelry from local artists and features several ready-to-wear clothing lines, the prices are such that you can find a retro-inspired outfit without breaking the bank, and support local artists while you're at it. Next time you visit, take in the hanging artwork while pushing aside dresses.
Address: 521 E. Fifth St., Dayton
Hours: Tuesday, 12 p.m.-5p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Contact: (937) 241-9434; clashdayton.com
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2. Loralei's Boutique
Photo by Vivienne MachiFor when you're dressing to impress, Loralei's Boutique has you covered for all premium brands, from Chico's to Yves Saint Laurent. If you're switching out your evening wear, make sure your pieces are clean and current, and if you're looking to replace your handbag, look no further: Loralei's authenticates all their bags so you know you're getting the real deal.
Address: 43 W. Franklin St., Centerville
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 7 p.m. on Thursday
Contact: (937) 528-6861; loraleidayton.com
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3. Valley Thrift Store
Photo by Vivienne MachiStep inside this treasure trove of everything you could possibly want, from baby clothing to rows upon rows of Reader's Digest cookbooks. Be prepared to dedicate several hours to poring through the racks at Valley Thrift, but where else can you find an American Apparel T-shirt for $2.99? And if your spring cleaning extends to your housewares, Valley Thrift has replacements for nearly every item you can think of.
Address:Locations in Fairborn, Kettering, and Evendale. Pictured: 1717 Woodman Drive, Kettering.
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Contact: (513) 327-8673; facebook.com/valleythriftstore
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4. Plato's Closet
Photo by Vivienne MachiTo keep up with the latest trends, whether they are gladiator sandals, '70s boho chic, or crop tops and cut-outs, you're in luck, because there are seven Plato's Closet locations in the Cincinnati-Dayton area. While that means you may spend more money on gas than you tried to save on clothing deals, but we'd consider it a win, anyway.
Address: Seven locations between Cincinnati and Dayton. Pictured: 2750 North Fairfield Rd, Suite C, Beavercreek.
Hours: Vary by location
Contact: platosclosetcincydayton.com
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5. St. Francis Thrift Store
Photo by Vivienne MachiLooking for a basic black blouse for work? Find five at $2.99 each. Craving some wingtip shoes but can't afford brand new Oxfords? Gentlemen, you're in luck. Heck, need an entire new dinner set? St. Francis' has you covered for your estate furniture needs. With several branches in the area, from Huber Heights to Kettering, the non-profit offers great prices on apparel, furniture, dishware, and more in well-organized sections for even the most particular shoppers.
Address: Pictured: 7777 Waynetowne Blvd., Huber Heights.
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Contact: (937)233-4777; facebook.com/stfrancisthriftstores