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.

Worth the Trip: Rhea Lana of West Chicagoland

The lowdown: This national consignment sale operates semi-annual events in 23 states, including one in the Chicago area.

The merch: Shop new and gently used children’s and maternity clothing from brands like Gap, Gymboree and Polo, as well as children’s toys including train sets, toy kitchens and American Girl dolls, as well as gear and nursery furniture. New this year is household furniture.

The details: This sale is popular with consignors because they earn 70 percent of the sale price. (Consignors set their own sale price, so discounts vary.) Admission and parking are free. Cash, credit and debit cards are accepted for purchases.

Next sale: Sept. 21-27, 2014, at 1163 E. Ogden Ave., Naperville
Online: wchicagoland.rhealana.com

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

— Rebecca Little