Why You Need to Be on eBay

eBay has come a long way since it began in 1995, and I'll admit my experience with them has been about 50/50 over the years. However, as they've perfected their processes for handling designer items (and the fakes that come with them) I'd say it's becoming safer and safer to be an eBay buyer.

Years ago, my now fiance was crushed when we found out he accidentally bought me a fake Tiffany jewelry set off eBay. The seller swore it was authentic, and at the time eBay had no rules set in place for selling name brand jewelry other than going on good faith of the seller. In the end, I had to get an appraiser at Tiffany to confirm it was fake in order for the seller to refund the money.

Now, eBay doesn't allow anyone to sell any type of name brand replicas. So you could shop for your favorite Coach tote at a fraction of it's normal price. Or the long-since sold out Betsey Johnson skull necklace from the "Pretty Little Liars" finale for just $7. Or any designer item you want! And you can rest easy knowing you're buying the real thing for a great price. (Remember I was recently searching for a sold out evil eye bracelet from Betsey? Now there are at least 2 on eBay!)

eBay has become a haven for the fashion-obsessed to purchase vintage, new, or used designer items for a fraction of what a huge department store would charge. The best part about it? You're helping the environment by purchasing previously-loved items! Visit eBay's Fashion Vault to learn more about their designer brands for real-people prices.  

Buy. Trade. Repeat.

In fashion, there is nothing better than the concept of buying and trading. Especially now that many people are trying to think forward to sustainable fashion.  Now some of us may have to get over that "wearing someone else's clothes" feeling, because clothes that have had a previous owner are great!

I have found some of the best pieces I own at thrift or sell-and-trade shops

I used to frequent

Some will be very surprised by this, but I've gotten a lot of great formal pants from

In the city there are a couple of other options. I know some of you love the vintage clothing, but it will cost you a bit more even at secondhand shops. However, if you've got to go vintage, then you have to visit

And for those who've got to have their labels, even if it is secondhand, then you've got to visit

Shopping secondhand is definitely going to save you a lot of money and headaches from trying to sift through crowds at the malls. Just remember to shop smart, leave yourself enough time to actually look, and you'll be sure to find something great!

Labels Resale Boutique. I used to work down the street from this shop and they do carry some amazing pieces. Great shoes too! You just have to prepare yourself for what I call "designer sizing". Even if something says it's your size, it still might not fit because of the way it's cut. Just like two different pairs of the same size jean fit differently, so do designer clothes. The Lucky Exchange. There are two locations in the city and they both always have great selections. Same rule applies here as with other thrift stores, you must have the time to sift through it all, otherwise you may go home disappointed. Goodwill stores! It's really surprising to me too, but trust me when I tell you--these stores are like hidden gold mines. But you really do have to take the time to sift through everything, otherwise you won't get to those gems. I've found great pairs of Limited or Express pants (which retail for about $50 - $60 per pair) for $5, and most still have the tags on! Plato's Closet because it was convenient to my house and work. Plato's is one of those sell-and-trade shops which mainly carries junior's "everyday" clothes. Great stock of jeans (designer and otherwise) tees, tanks, and coats, but not so much on the more dressy items. It's always the luck of the draw with Plato's, but it's a good place to go for casual items..  What's the best part about shopping at these types of stores? Well for one thing, the clothes have already been relaxed and washed, probably many times, which makes them feel and fit better.