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Create Halloween Costumes Worth Screaming About

10/14/2015

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Courtesy of scarves.com
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Courtesy of craftberrybush.com
It’s time to start planning your Halloween costume and Goodwill Industries of New Mexico has everything you need to get started. At Goodwill’s thrift stores, you can find a variety of items to help your creative juices flow and come up with a unique costume for all of your Halloween festivities.  You will also find items to decorate your house or front yard to attract more trick-or-treating zombies, ghost, and goblins. Whatever your Halloween needs are, you’ll be sure to find something to spice up your spooky holiday.

Grab your kids and head to local Goodwill store to find accessories and clothing to dress up them up as their favorite cartoon character or hero. Find clothing or material at Goodwill to easily transform into a cape, or add a striking piece of costume jewelry to your child’s princess attire. Give your kid’s the costume they desire without breaking the bank.

Transform into the most talked about couple at the Halloween party this fall, whether it be Barbie and Ken, Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, or Peter Pan and Wendy. Goodwill has your flowing dresses for Wendy, a little red dress for Little Red Riding Hood and even a blonde wig to complete your Barbie costume. Don’t forget about your costume partner in crime! Goodwill has sports jackets for Ken, green pants for Peter, and fur coats for the Big Bad Wolf.

Plan a group costume and get the whole family involved!  Whether you want to dress up as Cruella de Vil and her Dalmatians, Gru and his Minions, or a menagerie of your favorite animals, Goodwill has lots of items to choose from to make your costume one to remember.
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And last but certainly not least! Check out Goodwill’s “Goodwill Halloween” Pinterest board for makeup tips, DIY accessories and costume ideas using items all found at Goodwill.  Transform into your own secret identity for the scariest night of the year! Visit a Goodwill near you today!
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Courtesy of: birnel.blogspot.com
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Sometimes You've Got to Pin It to Win It!

9/1/2015

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Image courtesy of trashtocouture.com
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Image courtesy of pbteen.com
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Image courtesy of blog.bridesmaid.com
Pin it! 73 million Pinterest lovers are finding great ideas every day, and Goodwill Industries of New Mexico is doing their part to show you fun and affordable ways to beautify your surroundings. When you follow Goodwill Industries of New Mexico at pinterest.com/goodwillit, you’ll get the latest pins in fashion, music, home décor, and DIY ideas.  With multiple boards and thousands of options, you’ll find unique and fresh thrift store projects to spruce up your home.

On the Local Goodwill Finds board, find trendy pieces from top designers such as BCBG, Jou Jou, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and Puma—and more! Keep these items in mind while you check out the Thrifted Fashion board which has all the latest trends in DIY fashion projects.  Here’s one idea: turn a men’s button-down shirt into a ladies’ blouse. Another: Repurpose a thrifted frame into fancy towel bar. Or simply even transform dated knick-knacks and figurines with a fresh coat of neon spray paint to bring into the modern era.

Soon-to-be-brides love Pinterest! Check out the DIY Wedding with Goodwill Finds board and find lots of fun ideas to decorate for your special day.  Making table runners is a breeze when you use thrifted doilies! Thrifted mason jars can also make a trendy centerpiece decorated with dozens of items you’ll find at Goodwill’s stores.

Whether you like a good fixer-upper or need some fashion inspiration, Goodwill has something for you.  Our Pinterest boards are full of inspiration to help get you started and point you in the best creative direction. 
                                                                                                                                                              
About the Author
Christina Chavez is a graduate of the University of New Mexico with a degree in Communication.  She works as a blog writer in Albuquerque, New Mexico and enjoys writing for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico as she takes an interest in and job development and community service.
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The Look For Less: Back-To-School Edition

8/12/2015

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Back-To-School season is here! Shop smart and save big at Goodwill! Your kids will be hitting the books and ruling the playground in style without you breaking the bank. 

We're recreated these 3 Back-To-School looks using only items found at your local Goodwill stores. (In fact, the ensembles were found in less than an hour at one Goodwill location!) Recreate your favorite Back-To-School looks at a fraction of the price at Goodwill. Happy thrifting! 
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About The Author
Alexis loves the thrill of the thrifting hunt and enjoys finding the latest trends at a fraction of the price.  She has been the Marketing Coordinator with Goodwill Industries of New Mexico since 2012 and is excited to spread the word about the many benefits of thrifting to younger generations. 
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Don't Be A Fake: How to Spot Genuine Gold Jewelry at Thrift Stores

7/30/2015

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Finding unique jewelry pieces in the thrift stores of New Mexico - from antique turquoise to modern designs from major retailers is easier than you think. One of the most consistently trendy metals to sport is gold. This timeless metal never goes out of style and is versatile enough to wear everyday, so it is no surprise that it is one of the most exciting things to discover in the jewelry case of your local thrift store. Goodwill Industries of New Mexico receives donated treasures from around the state (country and even world!); with a constantly circulating selection of jewelry pieces. So finding a piece of gold jewelry that you absolutely love is always possible, but how can you tell that a piece of gold jewelry is real? Here’s some pro tips that will help you get the most bang for your buck as you thrift around town.

Check for a stamp Lots of items made of genuine gold will sport a stamp on the inner portion of the band in the case of a ring or bracelet, or on the back of the pendant in a necklace. These numbers indicate the carat quality of the piece. If you see the number “416,” you're holding a ten carat piece. “585” indicates a 14 carat piece of jewelry, while “750” is 18 carats.

Look for the tell tale signs of gold plating and filling Gold jewelry pieces that have been constructed with gold filling or plating can be just as beautiful as the real deal- but how to tell the difference? Often these items will showcase a stamp similar to the kind mentioned above, but in this case, you'll see a fraction that tells the purchaser the ratio of gold to other metals. For example, you may see a stamp that reads “1/20 14K,” which means that about five percent of the piece is 14 carat gold. Other indicators include stamps such as “GP” for gold plated or “HGE” for heavy gold electroplate.

Test with a jewelry cleaning cloth or magnet Vintage pieces of gold may be lacking the markings that often indicate its quality. In this case, you can simply apply a jewelry cleaning cloth and see if some of the coloring comes off indicating a fake. Don't have a jewelry cleaning cloth handy? Grab a magnet. Real gold won't be attracted to it.

No matter the treasure you're searching for, the wealth of items circulating through New Mexico's Goodwill locations means that you're bound to find something priceless - from vintage clothing to genuine gold. Getting lost in the aisles of your neighborhood thrift store isn't just a good time, but the opportunity to find real value for a small amount of dough. Happy shopping!

 About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.

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Turn A Profit by Reselling Thrift Store Finds

6/27/2015

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Making a consistent side income by flipping fabulous Goodwill finds is surprisingly easy - if you know what you're looking for. With the abundance of websites like eBay, Amazon, and even Etsy for vintage treasures, you stand the chance to make plenty of extra cash just by doing just a little extra shopping. Sound too good to be true? It really isn't! If hitting up thrift stores around New Mexico is already a hobby, you can easily resell key items and put that little bit of profit toward your bills, a vacation, or maybe even your next shopping spree! Here we've compiled the basics to get you started on your new adventures flipping Goodwill finds.

As you shop, keep in mind that not all thrift stores are created equal. Some thrift shops offer up everything but the kitchen sink, while others have a curated selection of goods with a big price tag. If you're looking to cruise the aisles for low-priced clothing items, functional electronics, and tons of unique furniture and accessories, try the various Goodwill locations in your area. Since Goodwill is once of the biggest thrift stores in the nation, it offers an ever-changing selection at budget prices.

If you want to resell your finds on sites like eBay, it is wise to do a little bit of  “market research” before you make your next thrift store run. Take a careful look at what seems to be selling on sites like this. Some frequently found items at Goodwill that can fetch a high resell value include books (think college textbooks!), brand name clothing (hello, North Face!), and vintage and sterling silver dishware. When it comes to clothing, keep in mind that the season can influence the price you're able to fetch, so you might not want to list those designer sandals on eBay in December.

As you endeavor to flip key items from local thrift stores, keep an eye on your watch. Consider time versus money as you shop. If you're spending all day rifling cluttered clothing racks for a vintage jacket that you only make a few dollars of profit on, it might not be worth it.

By following  these basic principles, you'll be able to come up with your own formula for success in no time. Even if you arrive at reselling success through trial and error, as a shopper you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that dollars spent at Goodwill add up to meaningful service to our community, whether or not they sell for big bucks online. Good luck out there!


About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.
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Thrifting for Trends: Summer Style at Goodwill

6/24/2015

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Courtesy of polyvore.com
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Courtesy of astreor.canalblog.com
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Courtesy of blasfemmes.com
It's a new season with a whole new set of trendy looks and accessories to experiment with as you make the most of the summer at barbecues, pool parties, and long, lazy vacation days. As we take a look at the hot new trends hitting the streets and runways this summer, you're sure to be reminded that fashion recycles everything. That's lucky for the savvy shopper, who knows that all of the most on-trend pieces can easily be thrifted at the nearest Goodwill store. Here are just some of the styles that are trending this summer waiting on the racks at your local Goodwill.

Khaki
Since it hit the runways and the streets more than 40 years ago, khaki has been a fashion staple, and it’s returning once again this season with a vengeance! Spotted on the runways of shows by Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, and Chanel, this classic look can easily be dressed up or down for everyday versatility. You'll find a wealth of this functional fabric at every Goodwill- from skirts and pants to bags and blouses. The distinct and adaptable nature of khaki styles means you can effortlessly thrift a piece that suits your personal style.

Bohemian Style Dresses & Accessories
As long time purveyors of fashion trends new and old, Goodwill knows that history repeats itself, just like another one of this season's trends. Get ready to step back to the 70's with flowing, bohemian style dresses and accessories with bold prints and vibrant colors that are sure to catch a few eyes at your next summer party. As seasoned thrift store fashionistas know, finding groovy gear is a cinch at used clothing retailers. Pick up a breezy and bold summer dress, or just brighten up an outfit with a vintage scarf.

Mix-and-Match Patterns
Mix-and-match patterns on pants, tops, and jackets are everywhere on the runways- think Jean Paul Gaultier and Versace. These patchwork prints cobbled together of various fabrics bring some eclectic vibes into the mix for summer 2015. If you're hunting for unique materials, one-of-a-kind patterns, and specialty fabrics, Goodwill has got you covered. With a little bit of skill and a sewing needle, you can even take center stage with a design of your own.

This summer, it's all about contrast and reaching back into the past to upcycle key pieces for a fresh look. Stay a step ahead by being a smart and thrifty shopper and browsing the racks at local thrift stores before spending big bucks on designer gear. 


About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.
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Closet Staples for the Budget Shopper: Stylin' at Goodwill!

5/23/2015

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Are you bored with your winter clothes? It happens every spring. Thank goodness the weather is getting warmer in Albuquerque and we can shed some layers! Are you ready to revamp your closet? If you’re a savvy shopper on a budget, there’s no time like the present to hit up local Goodwill stores and thrift your way to savings for spring basics.

It’s true. Fashion can be overwhelming, especially for those without a lot to spend. Luckily, New Mexico’s Goodwill stores offer lots of trendy pieces that never go out of style, all at thrift store prices. This post will guide you to some universal staples that every girl should have in her closet. These pieces are adaptable, great for nearly any event, and require minimal fashion accessory supplements, and best of all- they’re all readily available at a neighborhood Goodwill store.

1.  A pair of black high heels Black high heels are one of my go to pieces. You can instantly dress up even the most basic combo of denim and a blouse with the right pair of shoes. Whether you’re heading to the office or an after hours event, black high heels go with anything and instantly elevate your look.

2.  Black cocktail dress You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times - have a “little black dress” go-to for any event. A black cocktail dress is casual enough for spring and summer barbecues on the back porch, but easily adaptable for an evening out or a work function. When you’re equipped with the right dress from Goodwill, you’re ready to take on anything.

3.  A pair of dark wash jeans Casual Fridays? Easy. Grocery shopping on Sunday afternoon? They’ve got you covered. A sophisticated pair of jeans in a dark wash are comfortable as well as classy. Pair them with a t-shirt and head to an Isotopes game or put on a work appropriate blouse and you’re ready to ease into the office. Denim is easy and versatile, and perfect for the warm days and cool nights of spring.

4.  A basic pencil skirt The pencil skirt is a universally flattering look that is easy to come by on the expansive racks of any thrift store worth its salt. This classic look is perfect for a morning espresso in Nob Hill when paired with a short sleeve blouse, or brings together a classy work-ready combo with a colorful sweater. Keep the color of your skirt basic and you go with a top of any pattern or color.

5.  Black flats Comfort is key in lots of scenarios. Be ready for an impromptu walk along the Bosque or just about anything with these key versatile shoes. Dress them up, or dress them down! Just like everything on our list, you can find these easily at Goodwill and get tons of use out of them this spring!

Enjoy the season with us at Goodwill and amplify your style with these basics, too! Have questions about what we do and where to shop? Get in touch with Goodwill Industries of New Mexico! 

About the Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.
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Heels in the "Collections by GW" section

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Coldwater Creek dark wash jeans

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Textured skirt found at 5000 San Mateo location
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Lilly Pulitzer and Other Big Brands Found at Goodwill

5/1/2015

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Have you thrifted lately? If you’re a Lilly Pulitzer clothing fan and you answered “no,” then you may want to drive to your nearest Goodwill thrift store right now!

Pulitzer’s designs are all the rage right now as evident by the recent swoon of Target shoppers … many waiting in line and buying in bulk to resell on sites like eBay and Etsy.  But why wait in line or pay hundreds of dollars for a must-have design when you can swing by your local Goodwill?

Our donation processors recently discovered some great Lilly Pulitzer brand dresses and tops. All are brand new and priced at a fraction of their retail value. One piece even still has its brand new tags.

In addition to Pulitzer, we regularly put out big brand names for just a few dollars each. That adds up to big savings. Brands like Coach, Ann Taylor, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Talbots and many others often grace our racks and Collections by GW section.

So if you haven’t already, give Goodwill a try. You may just find a super trendy piece that you’re dying to wear!
Brand New Lilly Pulitzer shirt at Goodwill
Lilly Pulitzer summer dress
Lilly Pulitzer at Goodwill
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The Beginner's Guide to Vintage Clothing

4/28/2015

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For fashionistas on a budget, there's nothing quite like browsing local thrift stores like the many Goodwill locations for vintage clothing finds. For aspiring vintage connoisseurs, however, the process may seem overwhelming. So  here are some tips for newbies on the thrifting scene. 

At Goodwill you'll find clothes from every era- from all the most current trends to funky retro gear, and you'll be able to shop with the peace of mind that comes with knowing your hard earned money will be returned to our community in the shape of job skills training courses, and much more.

When it comes to shopping for vintage wares at thrift stores, you should first become more attuned to exactly what constitutes a vintage item as opposed to what's simply second hand. A hard definition of “vintage” is difficult to come by, but generally, vintage denotes “special.” Timelessness of style, quality, and feel can be strong indicators of a vintage piece, as can the kind of cultural language that comes with it.

Tip 1: Seeking out timeless pieces that you can get a lot of use out of is a good avenue to take as you become familiar with thrifting and what to look for.

Tip 2: Hunt for and invest in basic vintage pieces that won't lose their appeal for you quickly- a little black dress for example, or a classic cardigan.

Tip 3: When you find something you really love, don't let the size on the tag dissuade you from trying it on.  Size standards have changed over the years, so always try on a piece you fall in love with at Goodwill before buying it.

 You may be asking yourself, why go to all the trouble of seeking out vintage or quality secondhand clothing? The answer is in the question- the timeless quality! Many clothing manufacturers just don’t make them like they used to, that’s why shopping at Goodwill stores offers such value. At Goodwill you’re sure to find well-made clothes that suit your style, and you won’t spend a fortune either!

Ready to get started shopping for vintage clothing at Goodwill? Check out their New Mexico store locations and hours.


About the Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.

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