CSN Inside Sales Coordinator Erica Hale Guest Blogs Her Smart Shopping Tips
The holiday season can be stressful, and it’s almost always more than you budgeted for. But you can get great thrifty consignment store finds to high-end designer labels at a fraction of the cost—you just have to know where to shop.
I saw vintage Christian Dior sunglasses at Plato’s Closet in Oak Brook (17W428 22nd St.) that were less than $25! I even scored a chunky necklace that was only $5. See what you can find there, less than 3 miles from Elm Creek Apartments in Elmhurst and City View at the Highlands in Lombard.
I was impressed with how organized Lincoln’s Park’s Second Time Around (823 W. Armitage Ave) store was. They had gorgeous silk scarves by Gucci and other labels in a glass case, various shoes around the perimeter of the store and clothing racks filled with different designers. See for yourself within walking distance from Belden Stratford.
Another great tip to finding great deals is to use social media to your advantage before heading out; follow the stores near your corporate apartment location online! Many retailers tweet their special promotions to their fans. Crossroads Trading (2711 North Clark St,), less than 3 miles from 400 N LaSalle and in walking distance from Belden Stratford, shared these trendy animal print studded boots on their Facebook page.
I found a shopping smorgasbord on the 13th floor of the Merchandise Mart (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza), walking distance from 400 N LaSalle, 215 West and Presidential Towers. The whole floor consists of different vendors selling clothes, outerwear, accessories, handbags and even holiday decorations for wholesale prices. You can even ask if they have samples; they can be as low as $5.
Courtesy of the Merchandise Mart
The only thing I love more than shopping is finding a great deal. I stick my chest out with pride when I get a compliment on a new item I purchased for a bargain. Never be afraid to check out thrift stores and consignment shops! Many stylists to the stars use consignment shops and boutiques for vintage pieces. If it’s good enough for Rachel Zoe, it’s good enough me. Happy shopping!