50 cents. 75 cents. In today's economy, these small amounts will barely buy a candy bar, let alone clothing. But budget-conscious students are finding that pocket change can go a long way toward assembling a wardrobe at thrift and consignment stores around the valley.
"I like to thrift store shop because no one else has the clothes you buy there," said junior Kari Hill. "I like the styles there rather than (those) at the mall. The clothes there are original to you."
Many students have chosen to leave behind overpriced, trendy stores in favor of local consignment stores such as Ena's Reflections and thrift stores such as the Salvation Army.
"It's cheap clothing," said sophomore Luke Van Helden, who began thrift store shopping just before his eighth grade year. "I can afford a lot of (clothes) and buy styles I couldn't find anywhere else."
Students are able to find pants, shirts, belts and more, usually for less than $5. The clothes are not only inexpensive, but "they have that worn look," said junior Tara Bowker, who frequents Community Thrift on 5th Avenue West.
"The sweaters and pants are more economically priced," said Hill. "You buy a pair of broken-in jeans for two bucks that you would pay $55 dollars for at the mall."
In addition to the clothing's low cost, many of the older clothes that are found in thrift stores are becoming stylish again. These styles, many of which are reminiscent of the '60s and '70s, are great for students who are looking for clothing that is different from typical "Seventeen" magazine styles.
"You just find different stuff that most people don't have," said Bowker. "When I find some great buy in the thrift store, I feel happy I've found something funky and different from everybody else."
However, thrift store shopping isn't limited to clothing. Many students look for collectable items as they browse the aisles for clothing.
"I try to find pants, sweaters and sometimes belts," said Bowker. "But lately I've been collecting candle holders."
Van Helden's best buy was an orange, glass vase that is 20 inches tall. He thinks it was handmade, but it only cost him $5.
Overall, thrift store shopping seems to provide students with a way to find the styles and collectibles they want at prices that won't drain their wallets.
"I enjoy finding neat things I've never seen before," said Van Helden. "It's a great social activity too."
Said Hill: "Not only do you find cheap clothes, but you find some zany items that provide great entertainment for you and your friends."