Activities for Kids

Consignment Shops & Sales for Back-to-School Steals

Unleash your inner thrifter. Great deals on cute clothes and gear are waiting for you at these stores and sales around town.

By Rebecca Little August 7, 2014

Back-to-school shopping can make a serious dent in the pocketbook — the clothes, the backpacks … the everything else you never knew your kid always wanted. Good news: You can get them ready without dropping a ton of money by taking advantage of the deals at local consignment shops and resales. Cute fashions and gear abound. Click through our album to find out where to go.

Spacious Haven: Kangaroo Kids

The lowdown: Everything here is supremely organized, with items clearly labeled by size. The shop is big enough to maneuver with a stroller. What’s best, it has the Lincoln Park unicorn: a free parking lot.

The merch: “Gap, Gymboree or better,” owner Michele Wagenbach says of the clothing mix, which also includes Hanna Andersson, Tea Collection and department store brands — all in good condition in sizes infant to 14. Prices vary based on brand. Think $25 for a pair of girl’s Joe’s Jeans, but $5 to $15 for toddler tops and pants of lesser designer ilk. There is a great selection of gear like monitors, baby gates, play yards, activity centers and toys in clean and working order. Sorry, no car seats or strollers.

The deal: Consigners receive 35 percent of the selling price, available immediately as in-store credit or as cash/check after the 10th of each month. Items remain on the rack for sale for three months and can be reclaimed by the owner prior to the last day. Otherwise, unsold goods are donated to charity.

2071 N. Clybourn Ave.  , Lincoln Park ( 773-327-2620 or kangarookidschicago.com)

Did we miss your favorite consignment store or sale? Let us know!

— Rebecca Little