Shoppers Flock To Consignment Shops

For cash-strapped shoppers in this economy, buying designer clothing may no longer be a reasonable option. That is, unless they don't pay full price for it.

Resale and consignment shops are nothing new, but now they're becoming more and more popular. Early Show consumer correspondent Susan Koeppen says that 82 percent of resale shops have reported an increase in new customers, as more consumers try to take advantage of the bargains and others come in to sell the designer clothes that they've never worn, many with the tags still attached.

In a "Resale versus Retail" fashion show on Tuesday morning, Koeppen presented models who showed off two outfits in three different categories - casual, workplace and formal wear. The outfits were similar in style but one ensemble was from a consignment shop, the other from a department store.

For example, in the photograph above, the model on the left is wearing pants by Philosophy, a Theory floral tank and a cardigan by Lluis Genero. The model on the right is wearing Theory pants, a Leifsdottir floral tank and a French Connection cardigan.

Can you guess which outfit was a bargain and which costs retail price? Here is the answer - the first outfit came from a consignment shop.

For those looking to browse the resale racks, Koeppen gives three pieces of advice: check items carefully, know the retail prices and get to know the store's staff.

To find out more information on consignment stores and to find one in your area, visit the National Association of Retail and Thrift Shops.