For most, clothing is just like any other household item. When the milk goes bad you throw it out just like that skirt that went out of style with the spice girls. Today, the world is just beginning to realize the effects of our over materialistic nature is placing upon our resources. Now is the time to really take to heart the phrase: “reduce, reuse, recycle”. With all the concern for our planet’s well being and a suffering economy, it is no wonder that consignment stores are becoming more and more popular.

While the average American has taken pay cuts, furloughs, layoffs, and job losses, it seems people do not have a whole lot of extra money floating around. You may no longer be able to justify splurging on that Coach handbag that you just had to have, or that butter leather blazer calling your name. Although paying for groceries and the rent may be your first priority in these financially pressing times, you do not have to let your wardrobe (or your rent) be neglected. In face the most fashion savvy have a secret that is growing in popularity: Consignment store shopping.

Upscale consignment stores have been providing designer clothing and accessories at rock bottom prices for years. Consignment stores sell and buy designer clothing with two main goals: Recycle used clothing and accessories, and provide affordable designer labels. Although these upscale consignments stores have been around for a long time, it seems that in recent times consumers have turned to them in masses. Women and Men alike understand the importance of still dressing fashionably in financially straining times, and thus the consignment boom.

One particular store that has been in the business of Consignment clothing for years and years in the store Buffalo Exchange. Buffalo Exchange is a company that was started by foreigners in hopes of sustaining the resources of designer brands. Since 1974 this chain has been working to save our planet’s resources, and has recently branched out to other philanthropic work as well. It is companies such as Buffalo Exchange which is making a difference both in the world as a whole, and to the people of the world in teaching a very important lesson: “Reduce, reuse, recycle.”

So the next time you start dreaming about those oh-so-adorable boots you just have to have, remember the phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle” and do your part in sustaining your financial and environmental resources, and smile because you have made a difference.