Back-to-school season always seems to sneak up faster than we’re ready for, and with new backpacks, shoes, and a fresh round of “I’ve outgrown everything” to contend with, the costs add up quickly. That’s where thrift and resale shops come in. Beyond the obvious savings, buying secondhand means less pressure over inevitable spills, scuffs, and growth spurts, and it keeps good clothing out of the landfill. With a little patience and a game plan, you can outfit the whole family for the start of school at a fraction of the cost.
Monterey County
Branches Resale Shoppe 480 Webster St, Monterey, 93940
(831) 375-4780
Wide variety of household items and clothing. Benefits San Carlos School.
Chatterbaux Children’s Shoppe 157 Fountain Ave, Pacific Grove, 93950
(831) 647-8701
Kids’ consignment: clothes, shoes, toys, books, baby gear.
The Hub – Paulina’s Finds 901 N Main St, Ste A, Salinas, 93906
Unique consignment store where sellers rent a space for five-day periods.
Oh! Baby 335 Monterey St, Salinas, 93901
(831) 424-2250
Kids/baby/maternity consignment, sized up to about age 8.
Plato’s Closet Monterey 402 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey, 93940
(831) 901-3130
Gently used teen clothing.
Rosebuds Kids Co. 535 Foam St, Monterey, 93940
Kids’ resale, baby basics through size 10-12: clothing, shoes, accessories.
Second Chance Thrift Store 105 Central Ave, Pacific Grove, 93950
Small selection of teen/children clothing and shoes at low prices.
Santa Cruz County
Hand It Down: Kid to Kid Resale 119 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, 95060
Newborn through age 10: clothing, shoes, toys, books.
Hope’s Closet 2555-2557 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, 95065
Nonprofit offering free clothing bundles for kids birth–pre-teen in need, plus a public resale store.
Leave a Reply