Can you ever have enough pairs of shoes? This is a question I ask myself every time I find a new pair I just HAVE to have – Sad to say, I have asked experts, and no one really knows. I guess I’ll just continue collecting them. Clothes can “shrink”, shoes don’t and can switch up your whole style from one outfit to the next. While we don’t have so many places to go these days, what with socially isolating and all, nonetheless, this doesn’t mean we can’t stylishly strut our way down the grocery store aisles with new shoes on our feet. Each outing is a celebration now and it feels good to put on a little effort even if it is for the sole benefits of tomato cans. Here are my 3 go to places for shoes on a budget.

Ebay

Ebay remains hands-down the best way I source shoes, especially when looking for vintage items or past season shoes. I am the type of person who likes to buy multiples of shoes and bags once I find them useful and durable for my lifestyle; unfortunately, that very often happens 6 months down the line when the shoes and bags are sold out. Here enters Ebay to chase the favorites – maybe another someone is putting up for sale a gently used or new pair for me to snatch? One of the great advantages with Ebay is that sellers are from all over the world so you can score some truly original items that are not distributed in the US. As a Vintage lover, the platform really comes in handy when I am trying to add to my Salvatore Ferragamo collection, finding collector items even in Japan.

Goodwill/Thrift stores

Your neighborhood store is always the first place to check out. For me, it is always an adventure since I never know what I am going to find and hoping for a surprise is half the thrill. Whether it is Value Village, Goodwill, Savers, a quick google search will put you on your way to the closest joint. This is my most preferred way to do my second-hand clothing shopping because I can try on the spot and assess the quality myself. Another thing I also love is that I can also check stores in more affluent neighborhoods which most of the time have higher end and quality items as well as more variety. Shopping at thrift stores is how I have found my best treasures – from exquisite Dolce & Gabbana sandals in excellent conditions, designer Italian leather boots, a Prada baguette, art and dishes.

When visiting the stores near you, don’t be shy, chat up employees, learn when new things are put out on the floor, what are the busiest times and if there are promo or discount days to maximize your budget. For example, my favorite store in my area brings new items on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and clears its floor on Wednesdays, offering heavy discounts on clothing and shoes on Mondays and Tuesdays. Having all this information can make a huge difference in your second-hand shopping experience and you are able to find a balance between chasing bargains and utilizing your time efficiently.

Poshmark

Poshmark has turned into one of my favorite places to shop second hand. The platform is friendly and easy to use, with sale events around brands or themes ongoing around the clock. I especially like the social media aspect and how easy it is to navigate and interact with sellers. One thing I really appreciate is that you can create a shopping profile with your sizes – clothing and shoes - and these are the only ones that will be displayed in your search results, saving you the hassle of filtering each time through results. I like that “Poshers” can leave comments under an item and chat with the seller and that most items have the “Make an offer” option so buyers can always try to get a bargain. Another feature I also appreciate is that the app allows you to keep the listing of items you purchased on the platform in case you want to resell them later - the page is already create and selling is only one click away. Pretty neat and a huge time saver if you ask me. So far, I have used the platform to buy shoes, fragrances and even make up and it went smoothly with some sellers even adding sweet thank you notes to packages. I am a huge Nine West and Vince Camuto fan - the sizing and the comfort factor never disappoint and Poshmark has been an excellent way to shop fo lightly used and fashionable pieces from other aficionado. I have had great luck finding shoes from previous seasons or that are less trendy to add to my closet.