Hello and a TGIT (thank god it's thursday) to everyone all around the world because we are about to get thrifty at the House of Ndubuisi.
Lately, I've been adulting and this has required a shift in my daily outfit choices, especially my footwear. When I thrifted in the past, I looked for eclectic and unique pieces, but now, I'm making the transition towards more classic pieces that form a well-constructed outfit. For the past month, I've been mainly experimenting with more modern and classic looks and different places to shop for these looks.
The quest for these classic modern pieces brought me to Crossroads Trading Co.
The branch I visited is located at
24 W 26th St New York, NY 10010 b/t Broadway & 5th Ave
Image courtesy of ny.racked.com
This review is solely on the buying at Crossroads. I didn't trade any pieces or sell any pieces to them and therefore, I cannot comment on that process. In the near future, I will do that and I will write a separate post on that.
I had heard about these stores in the past and for me, they fall into the category of thrift stores that can be considered "classy thrift".
Theoretically, yes you're still thrifting but the items found here would be of a better quality and a higher price than a Goodwill or Salvation Army, the merchandise is curated, and tailored to the particular demographic they are trying to reach.Crossroads Trading Co. is pretty much on par with Housing Works, which I have reviewed in the past.
I came to Crossroads Trading Co. mainly for their shoe section; which for a thrift store of its price range, is quite nice.
Thrifting shoes is a debated topic and most thrifters ( myself included) don't recommend getting shoes at a local. dirt-cheap thrift store.
But, I digress,
Let's get into the nitty-gritty of this store.
I will be rating Crossroads Trading Co. based on five categories: staff/atmosphere, variety, uniqueness, prices and quality.
Crossroads Trading Co. was very impressive with 8.5 stars; ranking high on the variety, uniqueness, staff/atmosphere and the quality of their merchandise. For the full low-down, continue reading...
Staff/Atmosphere:
Image courtesy of laceandcombatboots.com
Overall, the store is kept clean and all the clothes are well organized and color-coded or arranged by size. The staff was also quite nice and do a good job of being pleasant and keeping the store tidy and neatly arranged. They are a bit watchful of customers because of suspected theft.
I witnessed a man attempt to steal an armful of clothes by making a wild dash for the door and an employee chased him down and retrieved them. I also came upon a handful of clothing magnets and tags while trying on some shoes, and therefore, I understand why they're diligent and watchful of their customers. It seems necessary.
Anyone that has worked retail knows how annoying and time consuming it can be to deal with and prevent theft.
Despite this, the staff is very helpful and the store has a pleasant atmosphere with an open layout that beautifully showcases the carefully curated pieces within.
There is a small seating area in the shoe section for trying on shoes, another seating area near the windows and a number of small dressing rooms with floor length mirrors. The only thing I could complain about is the lacking of a proper area for trying on shoes, especially since they don't allow for customers to try them on the fitting room.
Variety:
This store has everything.
Do you want Kate Spade? Got it.
Do you want Salvatore Ferragamo? Got it.
Do you want Zara? Got it.
Do you want H&M? Got it.
Crossroads Trading Co. truly runs the gamut of all fashion brands that are widely known and sought after. I found everything from American Apparel to Furla and Theory. There is something for everyone; even the pickiest of all thrifters. They also have a wide range of sizes; from 0-14 and XS to XL and in shoes from size 5.5 to 11. Thrift stores are known for their wicked small sizes, but Crossroads Trading Co. thankfully goes against the grain with this one.
Uniqueness:
Another great thing I noticed about this store is how unique a lot of their pieces were. I was impressed by the particular cuts and designs that were on display. While they carry mostly modern styles, this store is masterfully curated and many of their pieces will stop you in your tracks and beg you to take them home (or at the very least, try them on).
Prices:
This is where Crossroads Trading Co. takes a slight dip. While you're getting a huge deal on more expensive designers and pieces, I did find that the prices on some of the lower-ticket items were a bit high and could be gotten elsewhere cheaper, like at Unique or Out of the Closet.
If you're look for high-end designers are low prices. this is your playground. But, if you're looking for low, low prices on every and everything, you might have some slight difficulties here.
I did find some 20% off and 50% off tags and for the super frugal, this can really slash prices and make some of these pieces worth the sticker price.
Quality:
& half.The quality for most of the piece are exceptional, but I did notice some pieces that were in less than acceptable condition(in my opinion) and I wouldn't purchase. Just slight rips here and there, a few stains here and there...nothing major because for the most part, the clothes, shoes and bags were in exceptional condition (many items seemed like new; and some had original clothing tags).
Closing Thoughts
Crossroads Trading Co. scores big with 8.5 stars!
I'd recommend this store for people that don't mind spend a little extra on something exceptional, people that enjoy high-end pieces and people that enjoy more modern and trending styles.
I purchased an American Apparel dress and a pair of loafers from & other stories, both for $50. At a retail price of $68 and $125-160 for the shoes, it was a huge deal and they're both in mint condition.
Visit the store at:
24 W 26th St
New York, NY 10010
b/t Broadway & 5th Ave
Love, light and cheers to a successful Thrifty Thursday.
May the thrift gods be with you.
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