Hello all! For me, fall and winter are the best seasons of the year. They have the best holidays (Halloween and Thanksgiving!), basketball season starts up (Go Phoenix Suns!), it’s my birthday (November!) and the air cools down (you can walk outside here in Tucson without melting into a puddle)! To my last point, cooler weather brings so many new fashion options. I love to layer my clothing and there’s no better time to experiment with trends. This week, I paid a visit to Buffalo Exchange Tucson to search for plaid in its many forms: gingham, tartan and more! Read ahead to check out all the pieces I found and how I styled plaid three different ways.
Nitty Griddy
For my first look, I experimented with a punk rock vibe and mixed two distinct patterns at once: Madras and Glen plaid. Named for its origin city of Madras, India (now Chennai), Madras plaid is recognized by its widely variable color combos and checkboard pattern – and this denim jacket does not fall short of that description! I paired it with a more subtle gray Glen Plaid (hailing from Scotland) and a mustard-yellow velvet mock neck.
After selling my closet cleanout to Buffalo Exchange (and shopping on a VERY regular basis) for more than a decade, I’ve learned a thing or two about how it works. Ever wondered how a buyer decides what to buy and what to pass on? Or what kind of stuff you’re supposed to bring in? Here are my top takeaways if you want to sell your clothes!
Clean Out Seasonally, then Bring It All
Buffalo Exchange buys the best of all seasons, but what does that really mean? Can you actually bring in heavy winter items in June? The answer is yes…and no. On one hand, Buffalo buys primarily for the upcoming season. On the other hand, they’ll buy extremely desirable, like-new items anytime (a current Patagonia down jacket in July, for example, or a designer dress from this season in December). My best advice? When you go to sell your clothes, just bring it all – some pieces are always desirable, regardless of season, and Buffalo’s buyers are happy to look through everything you have.
More than Just Brands
If you’re trying to crack the code on which brands Buffalo Exchange buys before you head in to sell your clothes or you want to squeeze a price estimate out of them ahead of time, I recommend just stopping into the store with everything you’re cleaning out. Though certain brands are particularly popular, Buyers make selections more based on styles that are selling quickly – and this means that they have to see each item in person. You could have an undesirable designer item that they won’t be able to resell, for example, and a super desirable everyday item that a shopper will snatch up right away. Another thing to note: while a brand’s original price point is factored into the pricing, the desirability of the style, age and condition matter.
Sell Your Clothes, Then Take the Trade
Since shopping is one of my top hobbies (it counts as a hobby, right?), I ALWAYS take the trade. Anytime you sell, you have the option to take 25% of their selling price in cash or 50% in trade (your buyer will tell you the selling prices of each item they buy from you). I took the cash maybe once and ended up spending it at Buffalo the next week, so that was the end of that. But even if you’re not as much of a shopper as me, the trade is a great option. After you sell your clothes, I recommend shopping around – you can buy some new pieces with your trade (which, believe it or not, is great motivation for a second round of closet cleanout) and take the rest in cash. If you’re in a rush, you can grab a trade card for later (they never expire) or take some on a card and some in cash. There’s nothing like having a hankering to shop and then remembering that you’re Buffalo rich.
At Buffalo Exchange, the buyers always make selections based on current inventory needs. On a number of occasions, I’ve bought items at Buffalo, worn them once and then decided I didn’t like them. When I go to sell them back, however, they’re not always able to buy them. Confusing, right? In reality, it’s because the store’s inventory needs can change on a daily or weekly basis. Buyers pay close attention to what’s selling quickly and what’s sticking around, constantly learning new information about what to buy from you when you come in to sell your clothes. At the end of the day, I donate any items that I don’t sell to a deserving local non-profit through Buffalo’s charity pickup program.
Take Advantage of the 24-Hour Hold
At Buffalo, you can hold up to 5 non-sale items for 24 hours. So if you find something you love but you don’t want to pay full price for it, put the item on hold and head home to clean out your closet. I recently found a pair of Chanel clogs that I just had to have. But instead of maxing out my credit card, I cleanout out my closet – and made enough money in trade to buy the clogs! WIN. PS – If you’ve been procrastinating your cleanout, this is the best motivator.
For High-End Items, Ask About Consignment
When it comes to high-end items that I paid a lot for (and, ahem, never really wore…), it’s sometimes hard to stomach the fact that, no matter where I sell them, I won’t be able to earn as much back as I originally paid. But at the same time, they do little good sitting in my closet. Take the slightly-too-small Acne booties that I paid over $500 for and wore only a few times over the course of several years. They’re classically stylish and in near-perfect condition. The answer? Consignment! At Buffalo Exchange, you can ask about selling higher end items on consignment. Consignment is offered on a case by case basis. If you do end up going with this option, you’ll forego an immediate payout and wait until the items sells to get paid. They’ll be able to price the item higher, though, and when you do get paid, you’ll receive 50% back in cash instead of 25%. No-brainer!
Hear that? That’s the sound of mysteries unraveling! Just kidding. After years of selling at Buffalo, I’ve learned a lot about how the process works, but I’ve also learned that popular styles and inventory needs are always going to change and I’m probably not going to make $500 back on my $500 pair of boots. But you know what? I don’t care. There’s nothing I love more than trading in my closet for exciting new finds and basically shopping for free. Questions about selling? Let me know in the comments. Otherwise, happy selling and shopping!
Can you believe we’re already so far into 2018? It happened so fast, it feels like summer just started! If you’re hesitant to pack away your bright warm weather gear in favor of drab sweaters, don’t sweat it. We’ve compiled a list of the hottest trends you’ll see everywhere this fall! Color and patterns are here to stay, so read ahead for the fall trends you’ll want to shop for ASAP.
Fall Trends 101: Don’t Skip The Color!
As the leaves begin to turn from green to brown, you might think it’s time for your closet to do the same. While we have nothing against a great neutral, remember all the shades that come between! Vibrant yellows, oranges and even reds will give you your chloro-FILL of color this fall.
First things first, I must confess that I love to shop. If you’re reading this blog, I’m willing to wager that you do, too. However, none of us likes spending hundreds of dollars on a wardrobe update, so that’s why I’m here – to guide you through updating your wardrobe for under $100! This past weekend, I went to Buffalo Exchange Tucson in search of a few versatile pieces to liven up my closet for the last weeks of summer. I also wanted to make sure I could incorporate these into my fall outfits when the weather gets cool. Read on to see what I found!
Fringe Benefits
There’s nothing I love more than a coordinating set! I found a great deal on this two-piece. This set is breezy for summer, but I know it’ll look great with a cardigan and boots when the weather cools down. Because I came in under my budget for this item, I took the plunge and bought a saddle bag with colorful suede fringe as well. This is going to add some serious flair to all of my fall outfits!
Ah, summer – time to pull out your favorite pair of shades and dust off your party pants. Whether you’ll be beachside working on your tan, adventuring in the outdoors or shopping your way across the US, here are some packing tips to help make your summer vacation the best one yet!
Opt for Versatility
If you’re like me, you’ll be tempted to bring everything in your closet. To avoid getting overwhelmed, start by pulling out items you’re naturally drawn to and then piecing looks together. Try matching one blouse with a few different bottoms or consider a dress that can easily change from day to night. Choosing pieces that can work in a variety of different ways is one of the most important packing tips to remember! Definite must-haves: a reliable pair of jeans, comfortable walking shoes and an on-the-go bag like a crossbody or backpack.
I also like to think about when and where each look will fit into my summer vacation. For example, if I’m going to be out all day brunching, shopping and then beaching, I’m going to choose something comfortable and cute like a breezy sun dress and my favorite casual sneakers. I’ll throw my swimsuit and flip flops in my bag for an easy transition to the beach. Bonus: while packing, if I happen to run across any pieces in my closet that I’m just not loving anymore, I also take the opportunity to pull ‘em out of and throw them into a bag to sell at Buffalo Exchange! There’s no better way to start a vacation off than with a clean house and a clean closet.Full Story
We know it can sometimes seem intimidating to sell clothes at your local resale store – it’s enough work just to clean out your closet, let alone figure out which items will sell and which won’t. Well, leave that part up to us! All you need to do is book an appointment online to sell, bring your clothes (please keep to 50 items or less and allow to sit for 24 hours) into your local Buffalo Exchange and get paid. Even better, take the trade and shop for new-to-you finds!
Step 1: Bring In Your Items
To sell clothes at Buffalo Exchange, the process is super easy. Simply clean out your closet and book an appointment to sell the clothes you’re no longer wearing. We buy men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and accessories, the best of all seasons, year-round. Style and good condition are more important than brand, so bring in your whole cleanout, from designer to name brand to no-brand.
Make sure to bring along a government-issued ID like a Driver’s License or Passport (and an adult if you’re under 18).
Step 2: Get Paid in Cash or Trade
When you get to the store, we recommend hanging out with your Buyer as they take a look through your cleanout. For each item we’re able to take, your Buyer will let you know our selling price. From that, you’ll get 25% in cash via PayPal or 50% in a Digital Store Trade Card. If you decide you’d rather hold onto an item, no problem – just let your Buyer know! We do need to see items in person in order to say whether or not we can buy them and offer you a selling price, so we always recommend stopping into the store with any items you’d like to sell.
Trade Up: After You Sell Clothes, Go Shopping
We’re going to let you in on a little secret: trade is the way to go! Even if you’re trying to cut down on clutter overall, trading your cleanout in for a few new-to-you finds is a great (and often free!) way to make your closet feel brand new again. Not to mention that it’s environmentally friendly. Pro Tip: When it comes to cash and trade, you have options. You can buy a few pieces and take your remaining value in cash or even take a trade card for later. Just head to the register before you leave to pick up your cash, trade or any combination of the two!
How Does the Selection Process Work?
At Buffalo Exchange, our Buyers go through a lengthy training process to learn about clothing construction and brands, price points and what kinds of items sell well in the store. After that, they analyze our racks daily to see which items have been selling quickly and which ones have been sticking around.
Our Buyers also talk to customers to find out what styles they’d like to see more of. It’s our goal to offer something for everyone – that’s why we buy current trends, vintage, one-of-a-kind items, inclusive sizing, everyday staples, men’s fashion and more. When our Buyers aren’t helping customers or reviewing our inventory, they’re often doing research on brands and current trends. As a result, our staff is a wealth of fashion knowledge! Ever wondered why they’re buying certain items from your pile and passing on others? Just ask! We love to talk fashion.
Whether you’re patting yourself on the back for a closet cleanout well done or you’re still in the “I’m so dreading this” phase, we’ve got you covered. When you’re ready, you can sell clothes, shoes and accessories at Buffalo Exchange in just a couple simple steps.
Calling all dads! Are you hip to the jive? Are you jiggy with it? You bet you are! If you’re rocking socks with sandals, chunky white sneakers and slightly oversized Hawaiian shirts, this is your time to shine! Go figure – we all finally realized that our dads were right when they told us that practicality is important. Read on to find out our favorite dad fashion of the year!
Beach Dad
Beach dad is ready to catch a wave or change a diaper – whichever comes first! For a perfectly practical fun-in-the-sun look, we paired some 80s-style swim trunks with a striped tee, a Hawaiian-print shirt (of course!) a retro Ocean Pacific hat and Tevas. This Patagonia messenger bag makes for a surreptitious way to tote diapers, sand toys and sunscreen for the whole family. Dad fashion done right!
Dad on the Go
For the dad with a million and one things to do, you can’t beat these Columbia shorts (easy to clean!) and this dinosaur pocket tee. Not only is your kid sure to love it, but the pocket makes a great place to store a pacifier. Finish off the look with a beige Disney hat (VERY 90s dad, if you ask us), comfy Vans and couch potato-print socks to express what you’d rather be doing.
Summer is by far my favorite season. The longer days give way to warm nights that feel full of possibility. It’s the season of “Yes, and – .“ For example: “Do you want to go to the beach?” “Yes, AND let’s check out this free concert in the park!” See what I mean? The only hard part of all this freedom is deciding what to wear. With so many cute summer trends, how do you decide what’s necessary to have in your closet? I’ve got you covered! Whether you plan on relaxing at home or heading out on a cross-country roadtrip with your best friends, read ahead for the summer essentials you’ll want to have in your wardrobe.
Macra-made In the Shade
This season, macramé and crochet are for more than just art projects! We’re seeing this knit and knot technique used everywhere, from pants and shorts to tank tops. Find yourself a matching rainbow set for double the fun.
There are many things I love about my mother, from her sense of humor to her generous spirit. If I had to choose one of my favorites things about her, it’s that she’s never been risk-adverse. She’s braver than I am by a long shot, and doesn’t back down from a challenge… unless the challenge is allowing me – her one and only daughter (Hi, Mom!) – to dress her in outfits outside of her comfort zone. However, she agreed when I added in this one important caveat: my mom could dress me as well *cue ominous lightning strike*. Read ahead for our Freaky Friday of an afternoon shopping session at Buffalo Exchange Tucson to celebrate Mother’s Day.
Check, Please
First, my mom picks out this checkered skirt and off-the-shoulder blouse for me – good job, Mom! This actually looks like a lot of the things I already own. My only hang up is the silhouette of the skirt – I don’t find the knee-length bell shape to be particularly flattering on me. This would be an ideal look for a Mother’s Day brunch, though, and I could definitely see myself wearing this outfit beyond the Buffalo Exchange dressing rooms!
The Clash
“Oh, Aarian, no,” is my mother’s response to this striped ruffle blouse and floral jeans. Oops. Guess my mom is not much of a pattern clasher. Nonetheless, she tries them on – and doesn’t totally hate it! This is a huge victory in my eyes. If you’re also hesitant about mixing patterns, I recommend keeping the color scheme soft and simple, like we did here.
Attention all Earth Day $1 Day shoppers! If you stopped by to score some $1 finds last Saturday, April 21, you ought to give yourself a huge high five. Thanks to everyone who came out, we raised $51,471 for The 5 Gyres Institute, a non-profit doing great work in the area of ocean plastic pollution. That’s a whole lot of happy turtles – and we couldn’t have done it without you! In the four months leading up to Earth Day, we also collected over 1,464 furs through our Coats for Cubs Drive, which are shipping out to animal rehabilitators across the nation as we speak.
A Little Bit About Our Earth Day $1 Day Sale
On Saturday, April 21, customers lined up around the block at 47 Buffalo Exchange stores nationwide to shop a special selection of clothing for $1 apiece. For these shoppers, brunch could wait – they knew that $1 items go quickly, so it’s best to get to the store early! Whether it was pouring rain (we’re looking at you, Texas) or hedging on 90 degrees (ahem, Tucson), the sale went on!
Over the past 20 years, Buffalo Exchange’s Earth Day $1 Day Sales have raised more than $665,000 for a variety of charities and environmental causes. Last year, all funds raised went to the Humane Society of the United States and their efforts to promote pet adoption. Other charities we’ve supported include Center for Biological Diversity and their water conservation efforts.
And Don’t Forget Coats for Cubs!
From January 1 until Earth Day every year, we invite customers to donate their unwanted furs in any condition to our Coats for Cubs Drive. We then ship these off to wildlife rehabilitators across the country, who repurpose them into bedding to provide warmth and comfort to recovering animals. Since taking this initiative over from The Humane Society in 2006, we have collected over 15,108 furs for animals in need. This year, we collected over 1,464 furs, all thanks to you guys.
But it doesn’t stop there – we give back to the community all year round! At every one of our 47 Buffalo Exchange stores, we support three local non-profits at a time through our Tokens for Bags program. Instead of giving out plastic bags, we give out 5 cent charity tokens – the result is over $728,595 raised for thousands of local nonprofits and almost 14.5 million plastic bags kept out of the environment. Want to give back just by shopping? Stop by your local Buffalo Exchange to recycle your closet cleanout and shop fun spring finds!
