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4 thrift shops that offer more than just diamonds in the rough

 
Sunshine Thrift Store, 4304 South Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa, sells name-brand clothing, such as Hollister and Ralph Lauren.
Sunshine Thrift Store, 4304 South Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa, sells name-brand clothing, such as Hollister and Ralph Lauren.
Published Feb. 18, 2015

Most of us have been to Goodwill and the Salvation Army to "pop some tags," and we continue to hunt for the perfect bargain and designer finds. But before we can begin "'coppin' it, washin' it, 'bout to go and get some compliments," we must first find that perfect "fur fox skin," and these are the places to do just that.

Revolve Clothing Exchange

2000 4th St N, St Petersburg, FL 33704; 1620 E. 7th Ave,Tampa 33605; 4023 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa 33609

With three locations around the Tampa Bay area — St. Petersburg, Ybor City and South Tampa — the store's salespeople buy and trade clothing from members of the general public. The shop only accepts brand names such as J. Crew, Marc Jacobs, American Apparel and PacSun. The salespeople are particular about what they accept because their customers are particular about what they buy. For the consumer, walking into one of these stores is more of an experience than just mall shopping. Several shoppers have said the customer service is unmatched, and the deals are definitely worth the trip.

Sunshine Thrift Store

2808 34th Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33713; 4304 South Dale Mabry Highway Tampa, FL 33611; 3611 1st Street East Suite 230 Bradenton, FL 34208

With three locations — St. Petersburg, Tampa and Bradenton — this store is an unlikely hero when it comes to designer brands. If a shopper searches, he or she can find names such as Hollister and Ralph Lauren. What the store lacks in appearance and curb appeal, it makes up for in deals and hidden treasures.

Urban Exchange

3150 Tampa Road, Oldsmar, FL 34677

Located in Oldsmar, Urban Exchange tries its best to create a hipster/urban ambiance. This store offers brand name clothing such as Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Coach, Loft, Tommy Bahama and White House Black Market, so it is easy to see why this is the place for young adults looking to find the perfect item of clothing for the perfect price. The sales staff also buys clothing, making it especially convenient for teens looking to not only clean out their closets in anticipation for the new spring season but also to make a little extra cash in the process.

Charisma Consignment Boutique

110 Lithia Pinecrest Road, Brandon, FL 33511

This plus-sized consignment boutique located in Brandon has revolutionized the consignment scene there. The first plus-sized boutique in the area, the store caters exclusively to women who wear sizes 12 and up. The owner's passion can be seen right away after entering, and the cleanliness of the shop is impressive. The only downside is the hours they are open. So make sure you check out their website before you head to the store.