From designer clothes at reduced prices to thrift shops, “new,” “never worn,” “barely worn” and “used” clothing stores are on the increase. Also on the increase are websites with e-Bay-like consignment shopping opportunities. There are specialty stores for career clothes; plus sizes; children’s clothes, and maternity clothes.

There are some thrift stores with locations all over Iowa.

Goodwill Industries http://www.goodwill.org/

Salvation Army (Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota stores): http://www.usc.salvationarmy.org/usc/www_usc_western.nsf/vw-sublinks/5AE4E09A430D51AB86256F88006C1937?openDocument

A list of Iowa thrift stores, searchable by zip code: http://www.thethriftshopper.com/

• While you search consignment stores, you will find more than clothes – you will find furniture, computer software, house wares and more.

• Shop garage sales. They are often held Friday and Saturday in the spring, summer and early fall, and listed in the newspaper or people put signs up on street corners.

• Shop sales – wait for the 50% to 75% off sales that happen as seasons are changing.

• Trade items with friends and family.

• Children’s clothes can be handed down many times over.

• Buy items that can be machine or hand washed. Stay away from “Dry Clean Only.”

• You only need one good outfit for an interview. You may get tired of it but the interviewer is seeing it for the first time.

Clothing Banks in Iowa

There are many clothing banks that have clothes for the whole family, including children's, maternity, work clothes, winter coats, and more. The best way to find a clothing bank near you is to call 211 or go to the Clothing section on the 211 website: http://fcfhiowa.bowmansystems.com/index.php/component/cpx/?task=search.query&common_id=642&code=BM-6500.1500-250