Being stylish yet frugal is a fine line to walk — especially in stilettos. Likely, you want one stop shopping where digging is minimal and selection is top-notch — like your rich friend’s closet. If you can’t swing that, here’s the next best thing: reBlue, located at 1423 Lake Dr. SE in Eastown.
“We take the best of the best from our Goodwill stores and put it in one location,” said Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Jill Wallace. “The cool thing is nobody’s going to have anything like it. Items are one of a kind, somewhat eclectic. We’re looking for not just name brands but what’s in style.
Offering both women’s and a small selection of men’s clothing as well as accessories, the swank boutique store is a goldmine of women’s dresses, denim and older finds that aren’t technically vintage but more on-trend pieces from the past with strong retro vibes. You’ll find a great selection of jewelry and coats as well as kitschy offerings that include vinyl records, home goods and unique items, like metal lunch boxes and rare handbags.
The hit-or-miss atmosphere means you’ll find brand names like Tory Burch one day and a collection of concert and music-inspired t-shirts the next. Donations come from the public along with creations from a circle of upcycling Kendall College students. The staff is well acquainted with the client base so they can anticipate your every fashion move.
When it comes to selecting clothing, Wallace has solid advice. “Veer toward jeans and sweaters when you’re looking to update your wardrobe and have that higher end look without paying a lot,” she said.
This is a cinch since denim is usually around $25 and under with shoes reflecting the same price point (considering brands and condition). With savings easily 50-percent off retail pricing (or more) you can afford statement pieces while remaining a thrifty high roller.
Can we talk thrill of the hunt? It’s electrifying to score items you know cost more but there’s also the high of finding a rare scarf or that perfect, already worn-in jean jacket that seems to have been recently ripped off the uber-cool set.
“A lot of our shoppers look with an open mind,” Wallace said. “It’s exciting for them to peruse through almost everything and put an outfit together or mix and match with something they have at home.”
Writer’s Note: Check out the store’s Instagram account reBlueGR and view new arrivals, hip vignettes, store updates and the store’s mannequin that’s dressing better than you are.
