Good & Sturdy Vintage, 218 Water St., Eau Claire

A few years ago, I took my first leap toward a more eco-friendly closet, and I’ve been leaping ever since. There is something magical about giving new life to gently used clothes that may have otherwise ended up at the landfill. Of course, it helps to live in the Chippewa Valley, which has more than 20 thrifty shops. These treasure hunting grounds make it fun and affordable to experiment with trends and colors while creating a unique sense of style without sacrificing quality. From classic staples to high-end pieces, looking your best for less has never been this easy.

If you’re wanting to pick up a pair of paisley pants for the yogi inside you along with something green and gold to show off your Packers spirit, then head on over to Savers, Goodwill, or Hope Gospel Mission Bargain Center. These places have a little bit of everything, from once-upon-a-time to what is currently trending. Their racks are filled with all the colors in the rainbow and every print in the book, making the hunt for that special item just as exciting as the find. These thrift shops also have an endless supply of patterned scarves, hats, and shoes to complete any look. Their special deals and tag sales on top of the already low prices makes buying used an excellent way to get more bang for your buck.

I think some enjoy a connection to clothing that they may have worn when they were younger or they remember what their parents wore.” – JON SHEMICK, GOOD & STURDY VINTAGE

The Valley also has a number of shops that specialize in certain age groups and trends. That’s Adorable has a wide variety of clothes and accessories from cute swim wear and tees to all sorts of gear to prep kids for Old Man Winter. For teens and young adults, Plato’s Closet offers the latest styles and brand name designers at up to 70 percent off mall retail prices. They also have their popular grab bag event where buyers can stuff and roll as many clearance items into a bag for just $15.  

Those looking to wear a bit of nostalgia can discover some of the best gems at Good & Sturdy Vintage, which specializes in antique to 1980s everyday casual and work wear clothing for men and women. “I think some enjoy a connection to clothing that they may have worn when they were younger or they remember what their parents or grandparents wore,” says owner Jon Shemick. “T-shirts, for example, may commemorate a place or event from the past.” Some items are unique because they are rare to come across while others are more common, but as Shemick says, “Each one has specific wear and character that make them one-of-a-kind.”

Used clothes and accessories are also perfect for crafting up a storm to spice up any style. You might come across a pattern or article of clothing you just can’t live without, but you don’t love how it’s presented or necessarily want to use it for its original purpose. So allow your creativity to run wild and recycle that old fabric. Cut out warm hats from old wool sweaters, paint those canvas shoes, and revamp that tee a hundred different ways into something new and totally you.

People dig used clothes for a number of reasons, from wearing a piece of history to helping the community and environment. Whatever the reason, used clothes are perfect for creating a fashion-forward wardrobe, especially with so many thrifty shops in the Valley. You are guaranteed to find something old, something new, something affordable, and something in every hue.