Friday, February 7, 2014

Thrift Review: My First Impression of Second Impression

THRIFT REVIEW:
My First Impression of Second Impression

5 out of 5 Thrift Chicks

Approaching this two story business transformed from an antique brick home on Fulton street in downtown Grand Haven, Michigan, my first impression was already a good one...I knew from the ivy growing up the side of the building and the creaking front door that I was going to love it!

Many a time, Second Impression had been recommended to me. I must admit, I don't always spend much time in consignment stores because I don't always love the prices as much as I love the merchandise. However, upon entering the front door of Second Impression, I was already in love with the shabby chic, Victorian melange of eclectic fixtures, shoes, jewelry and clothes.

Second Impression does have items that are reasonably priced, and they also run tag sales on their merchandise. For a "nickle-and-dimer" like me, it's good to know that prices are negotiable--which is a big plus!

The fantastic thing about Second Impression is the two stories of the home that are CHOCK full of well sorted, sized and categorized clothes and shoes--all of which are in very good condition. This is a place that you can go to with a certain item in mind--and find several of them in good shape, with differing sizes. Upon my first visit, I hoped to find a moto style jacket and a pair of genuine leather short high heeled boots, and I met that goal.

Items are sorted by color, design, function AND size--which I absolutely love. I can also say for the plus size ladies out there that I noticed there were a really wonderful selection of smart pant suits, beautiful dresses, blouses and other selections for sizes all the way up to 20 and above.

Did I mention you can bring your clothes in for trade? The best part about Second Impression is the fact that you can bring selected clothing in for either cash or store credit, though at the moment I hear that their surplus is rather full and they are only accepting selective items.

Also worth mentioning is the men's clothing section, located in its own separate room upstairs, complete with casual and formal wear as well as coats and shoes.

Looking for a faux or real fur? Second Impression has you covered.

The magical upstairs houses formal wear in all sizes and a downright fairy-tale-like dressing room with a chandelier and vintage dressing mirror.

All photos (c) Pineapple Chantal Photography

Overall, my first experience with Second Impression was really wonderful--I absolutely loved the ambiance and the employee working was kind enough to stay open late for me, as I didn't realize my "in-the-thrifting-zone" meandering had taken me almost a half hour past closing time!!!

I've since returned and I plan on doing so often--I'd encourage the same to you! I'm giving Second Impression five out of five thrift chicks!