Get my thrift?

Grace Halliday, a Boulder local, browses for earrings in the Boulder location of Plato's Closet on Mar. 1, 2011. She comes in to shop occasionally, when she feels her wardrobe needs updating. (CU Independent/Kelly Kaoudis)

There’s a magical moment when one stumbles upon a perfect piece of clothing and it only costs $3. That’s right, it’s the unmistakable thrill of thrift store shopping.

The CU Independent has put together a list of top Boulder shops to find fabulous used clothes for the best deals.

1. Buffalo Exchange

Arguably one of Boulder’s most popular college shops, Buffalo Exchange sports the best aspects of the thrift store shopping experience, showcasing the perfect marriage between style and quirk, with mostly fashionable finds and occasional oddities (a skirt with hamburgers on it?). But, as thrift store fanatics will say, making these strange discoveries is all part of the fun.

Though not the cheapest of the bunch, Buffalo Exchange is still generally more affordable than retail prices and will buy items they feel blend in with their eclectic collection. Stop by the store to peruse an impressive shoe collection and other quirky accessories that are really one of a kind.

Location: 1813 Pearl St. (New Location)

2. Goldmine Vintage

For the costume lover or anyone with an old soul, Goldmine is a treasure trove of beautiful items one simply can’t find anywhere else. Though this store is technically “vintage,” it makes the list of top thrift stores because the clothes are still secondhand. With styles ranging from the turn of the century all the way to the 90s, this is one place where clothes might really belong in a fashion museum.

A perfect fit on Pearl Street, the shop caters to a hip crowd with sunglass-sporting mannequins in the window and a collection of old records inside. The store also supplies new clothes that range from T-shirt brands like Headline and Threadless to lovely indie name dresses. Be prepared to pay more at this store, especially for those timeless pieces.

Location: 1123 Pearl St.

3. Goodwill

It’s the amazing bargains that make Goodwill a haven for the poor college student. As with any thrift store experience, patience and a little time spent sifting will often yield great finds. With a huge warehouse full of not only clothes, but also furniture and random items, it’s even fun to just stroll the aisles and play “who can find the oldest board game?”

For those seeking a replacement hoodie, a few gym T-shirts or something to wear to that party on Saturday, this store is definitely the place to go. Donations are always accepted, so be sure to give back.

Location: 2486 Baseline Road

4. Rags

Who dreamed thrift stores could feel so expensive? Rags is a lovely boutique aimed at Boulder fashionistas who have a little extra money to spend. Here, customers can find things like designer jeans and high-end accessories that will cost them less than retail prices. Boasting brands such as Chanel and Gucci, this shop can contend with any other Boulder clothing store.

But sellers beware: This store has a selective process and is many times partial to the most stylish names.

Location: 3129 28th St.

5. Plato’s Closet

A more typical consignment store, Plato’s Closet still seeks to stay in style and cater to younger, more fashionable customers. With its huge selection, there’s bound to be a few cheap gems to walk home with. Though the store’s most impressive feature is its array of women’s clothing, there is still a small men’s section worth checking out.

One of Plato’s Closet’s best features, however, is its buy-back. The store pays 70 to 80 percent of the retail price for items, but generally accepts items that have been popular in the past year.

Location: 2510 Arapahoe Ave.

Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Stephanie Riesco at [email protected].