Thriftin’ ain’t easy: How to get the most bang for your buck in Easton
March 25, 2022
Do you have Gucci aspirations but a Gap budget? Want your outfit to break onlookers’ necks without breaking the bank? You’re in luck, because Easton has a surprising number of hidden gems when it comes to thrifting, antiquing and vintage shopping. By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert on the best places down the hill to fill up your wardrobe, and still have enough money left over to treat yourself to dinner afterward.
Yellow Balloon Consignment
Although the storefront of Yellow Balloon Consignment appears unassuming, the black awning and brightly colored balloons lead into a treasure trove of cheap outfits.
Yellow Balloon is by far the most affordable place down the hill to buy clothes. I’ve found tops that could easily sell for $20 or more at fast fashion and traditional retail places for as low as $4. The most I’ve spent on a single item at Yellow Balloon was $20 for a clutch, and I’d say that it was worth the price.
Additionally, the owner is incredibly friendly and helpful. If you browse for long enough, she’ll even come up to you and recommend certain items. (Yes, I’m speaking from personal experience. Don’t ask me how much time I’ve spent in the store).
One of the only downsides I can think of is that there’s a much wider selection of women’s clothing than men’s clothing. Additionally, some of the other stores on this list have a better selection of accessories.
However, if you’re looking to replenish your wardrobe for the warmer weather and don’t want to spend too much, Yellow Balloon is definitely the first place you should look. The best part? Lafayette students get 10% off their entire order when they show their student ID at checkout.
Twice Chic Boutique
If the clothes at Yellow Balloon aren’t your style, look no further than right next door.
Twice Chic Boutique offers a slightly pricier alternative to its neighbor. The pieces at Twice Chic are much flashier: think fur, leather and lots of sequins.
Although Twice Chic is more expensive than Yellow Balloon—tops at the former average for around $20, while tops at the latter average for around $10—I’ve found some really unique steals. For instance, I once bought a brand new top at Twice Chic for $25, only to discover later from the still attached price tag that it originally retailed for over $100.
I wouldn’t go to Twice Chic looking for everyday outfits—but if you want to turn heads at a party or special occasion, I’d recommend taking a look around.
Salvage Goods
An antique store probably isn’t the first place you’d think to look in for your next favorite accessory. Salvage Goods is here to prove you wrong.
Salvage Goods has an amazing (and affordable) selection of antique and vintage accessories that includes rings, necklaces, scarves, belts, hats, neckties and more. My personal favorite section to get lost in for hours has to be the pile of miscellaneous antique earrings that go for $3 a pair.
If you aren’t one to accessorize, Salvage Goods also has a small but fun selection of vintage clothes. It’s the only place in Easton I can think of where you’ll find skirts and dresses that look like they came straight from The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
All in all, Salvage Goods has a great selection of antique accessories — and, if you’re lucky, you might find a cute vintage outfit too.
Easton Antique Emporium
Like Salvage Goods, Easton Antique Emporium also offers a surprising variety of antique clothes and accessories. Fittingly, the two stores are right next to each other.
Although Antique Emporium is much bigger than Salvage Goods, I’d say that I prefer the latter because of its more curated selection; I’ve discovered that I really have to search to find pieces that I like from Antique Emporium.
However, I wouldn’t let this discourage you from visiting the store. I’ve found some really cute rings and earrings here, and the prices aren’t too bad. Maybe it isn’t worth spending a whole day here but definitely pop in for a bit to see if you can find something you like.
2nd Base Vintage
2nd Base Vintage is probably the first store that comes to mind when the topic of thrifting and vintage shopping in Easton comes up. However, it is the last store on this list, and also the last store that I would recommend if you’re looking for affordable clothes.
Don’t get me wrong: I’ve bought fun t-shirts from 2nd Base before. Their selection is great if you enjoy wearing your favorite anime character or sports team on your sleeve (literally). However, their merchandise is shockingly expensive; a relatively simple t-shirt can go for up to $80, all because it has a recognizable character slapped on it. Although there’s no other place that sells quite the same style of clothing in Easton, the prices really aren’t worth the novelty.
Unless you have money to blow, my advice is to skip 2nd Base on your next thrifting expedition in Easton.
