In light of the state's fluctuating economy, Gainesville residents are forgoing shopping days at the mall for better deals at local thrift and consignment shops.
A recent survey conducted by the National Association of Resale & Thrift Shops found that about 66 percent of consignment and thrift stores nationwide had increased sales from January through August 2008, compared with sales during those months in 2007.
The average increase was 35 percent. The survey found that almost 86 percent of stores have seen an increase in new customers, and 74.5 percent are seeing new suppliers or donors.
Ashley Wheeler, a manager at Sandy's Savvy Chic Resale Boutique, said the shop has been busier than usual.
The store no longer offers consignment because people opt for getting money right away when they bring in their items.
"I guess, because of the economy, people really need the extra money," Wheeler said.
Other stores, such as Plato's Closet, which advertises "brand-name, gently used" clothing, have also noticed an increase in business.
Sean Driscoll, the store's owner, said store buys and sales have increased by 25 percent in the past year - a significant increase that makes economic effects highly visible.
"People thought college students, having disposable incomes, were immune to the economic crisis, but now with their parents losing their jobs and even students themselves losing work, they are forced to become thriftier," Driscoll said.
Everyone is learning the value of the dollar, he said.
Now, instead of trying to find designer goods, people are searching for the best deal.
Jennifer Hayes, a Santa Fe College sophomore, said there is no reason to spend more money than necessary for clothes from the mall when secondhand stores will do.
"I don't have the funds to spend $100 on a pair of jeans when I could get them for $20, practically new, secondhand," Hayes said. "It's just not logical."
