If you have school-aged children, then you more than likely have contributed to the projected $27.6 billion that will be spent during the back-to-school shopping season. With an average of $510 spent per household on back-to-school shopping, updating your fall wardrobe may have been put on a back burner. Not to worry! I’ve visited three local bargain stores to help you gear up for fall without breaking the bank.
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont
Address: 16025 Lancaster Hwy, Charlotte, 28277 (Ballantyne)
Goodwill stores are my go-to for looks for the entire family. With more than 20 retail stores in the Charlotte area, you’re bound to find all the pieces you need to revamp your fall wardrobe. Not only will you save money on stylish designer pieces, you’ll help community members experiencing barriers to employment. Ninety cents of every dollar spent in Goodwill stores goes to fund programs that help those experiencing unemployment and underemployment.
When shopping at Goodwill retail locations, I always look for my favorite wear-to-work brands: The Loft, Ann Taylor, Express, Michael Kors and Calvin Klein. I have not been disappointed!
To save even more, sign up for the Good Points Loyalty Program to earn one point for every $1 you spend in their retail stores. You’ll also receive a $5 reward for 100 points earned. Seniors ages 55 and older receive 25 percent off their purchase every Tuesday.
Clothes Mentor
Address: 901 South Kings Dr., Charlotte, 28204 (Midtown)
If you love high-end brands but not the prices, Clothes Mentor is the perfect place to shop for pieces to add to your fall wardrobe. Clothes Mentor is a women’s resale shop with two Charlotte locations.
You can buy and sell smart business and casual brands that are in good condition. While shopping, I found high-end bags, like Louis Vuitton, to add as the perfect accessory to any business casual office look. You’ll always find stylish, on-trend items at a fraction of the price. Make sure that you check out the shoe section, I found the cutest booties to step into fall.
Be sure to sign up for Club CM to save even more. You earn one style point for every $1 spent. When you earn 250 points, you’ll receive a coupon for 20 percent off your purchase. You’ll also receive a special discount during your birthday month.
Uptown Cheapskate
Address: 9015-5 J M Keynes Dr., Charlotte, 28262 (University City)
Uptown Cheapskate is a consignment and resale store for men and women with two locations in Charlotte. I’ve purchased brands from Forever 21 and H&M to Coach and Kate Spade. I can count on both locations to have on-trend items, even those that have been sold out online or in local retailers. I’ve sold items as well, always receiving a fair price.
The men’s section is just as robust as the women’s, with brands including Aldo Men and Ralph Lauren.
Join the Uptown Insider program to earn a stamp on your UI card for every $10 that you spend or sell. When your card is full, you’ll receive $15 or 20 percent off a future purchase. As an Uptown Insider, you’ll also receive 15 percent off during your birthday month and other special discounts throughout the year.
Although you may have blown your budget school shopping for your children, you can still refresh your fall wardrobe with stylish, on trend items without breaking the bank.
Happy Thrifting!
Nakisha Washington is a style contributor who mixes prints and professionals. She’s a millennial development coach, content creator and lover of all things stylish!
