WHEN first dipping a toe into the pre-loved duds pool, the types of shops—let alone the sheer number these days—can be a bit intimidating. A vintage boutique, a consignment shop, and a charity-affiliated store can seem much the same to the uninitiated, but it pays to understand the differences. Here, we break it down and point you to a few of our favorites in each category. Resale Shops Resale shops are the place to go treasure-hunting. Clothing has been sold to the shop, either outright or on a consignment basis. Consignment shops don’t pay for an item until it sells, taking a cut. By no means is quality sacri ced by shopping resale; clothing is chosen based on its selling potential. Usually, only impeccable pieces are accepted. These are a great option if you favor trendy brands and styles but can’t see paying full retail for them.

The store is known for its curated selection, high-quality items, and knowledgeable staff. The store’s success can be attributed to several factors, including its commitment to sustainability, its focus on customer service, and its strategic location. **Sustainability:** Amanda’s Exchange prioritizes sustainability by offering a platform for pre-owned luxury goods. This reduces the demand for new production, minimizing the environmental impact of fast fashion.

D. dress, or even a 1990s grunge-inspired jacket. The key to understanding vintage fashion is its connection to history and its ability to transcend time. The appeal of vintage fashion lies in its unique blend of nostalgia and individuality.

Nuova Vita Vintage Is minimalistic chic your style? Nuova Vita Vintage in The Stutz impeccably presents pieces in muted colors and airy shapes to help shoppers achieve a laid-back approach to wearing vintage. Cozy up in a 1980s intarsia sweater or peruse their impressive selection of gold-plated chains, earrings, and rings of varying ages. 1060 N. Capitol Ave., Ste. B320 Charity Shops This is where philanthropy meets fashion. Find stylish steals at charity shops while also giving back to the community. Often run by volunteers, these unique businesses sell donated items in good condition, with the proceeds going back to a specific local charity. Though the clothing is less curated than in either resale or vintage shops, the prices are hard to beat. If you don’t mind hunting a bit, or perhaps even enjoy it, you can score unique finds while helping others. While Goodwill and the Salvation Army are the best known of the breed, others deserve a look as well.

Mission 27 Resale Owned by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, proceeds from sales go toward serving low-income families and unhoused individuals in Indianapolis. Their Shelby Street location is popular among the downtown crowd for thrifty, everchanging discoveries. Multiple locations. Grace Thrift Store With 100 percent of proceeds benefiting the Grace Care Center food pantry, the racks at Grace Thrift Store are worth sifting through. Beyond modern threads, they carry other goods like Funko Pops for the kids and VR headsets. 5504 E. 146th St., 317-848-2722