Shopping in Princeton can be a daunting task. The beginning of the year finds many students scrounging about for dorm-room furniture, clothes or a bike to get them to precept on time. Yet no matter how many times you trudge back and forth between Palmer Square's chichi boutiques and the aisles of overpriced merchandise at the U-Store, the town of Princeton simply may not offer the items that fit your bill or, to be precise, your pocket book. There is, however, a remedy – one crucial concept that will get you through year after year of outfitting your rooms and your selves: the thrift store. Although the genteel garb seen on Nassau Street may create the illusion that the whole world is dressed in Banana Republic or J. Crew, this is not the case. In fact, you need look no further than the alleyway next to Hoagie Haven, where you can find Princeton's very own thrift store, Nearly New, and be assured Ann Taylor is not the only place in town where you can buy a skirt. The nearby metropolis of Trenton is a goldmine of secondhand bargains. Whether you're looking for a formal dress, a couch, a pair of jeans or some costume jewelry, a trip to a thrift store is a great way to spend an afternoon. Grab a map and some friends, keep your eye on that upcoming theme party and don't forget to check for stains and tears before you make your purchase . . . Here are some of my favorites:
Nearly New, Princeton's only thrift store, is not large, but well-stocked with higher-end name brands. The adult clothing here is not as cheap as what you will find in Trenton, but you can't beat the location, right next to Hoagie Haven. Established 50 years ago, the store has long been a favorite with University students, who "storm the place" before their theme parties, said store manager Moira Mittmacht. The store is owned by the Princeton Day School and supported by volunteers from the community, including many PDS parents.
Profits from the store provide scholarships for PDS students who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford the tuition, said Mittmacht. To get there, walk down Nassau Street and turn left into the parking lot behind Redding's Plumbing, next to Hoagie Haven.
Red, White & Blue, a veritable mecca of vintage eclecticism, offers the best selection of clothing around. From funky formals dresses to old shoes to trendy T-shirts and pleated skirts, this is the place to turn for inspiration whenever Palmer Square starts to feel too staid. Although it's not exactly walking distance, a trip there can make for a fun afternoon. One of two stores in New Jersey run by the Vietnam Veterans of America, the store solicits clothing in 17 different states, explaining the delightful variety found on their racks. To get there, take bus 606 from Palmer Square and get off at Klocner, in Trenton. The bus schedule is available online at www.njtransit.com.
The Rescue Mission of Trenton has a mission store that offers some of the cheapest clothing and furniture around. Clothes there are sold for $1.75 per pound, and your average shirt or pair of pants will probably weigh in at less than half of that.
Most couches are under $100, with armchairs for as little as $10 and bicycles for around $15.
The Rescue mission has a van and will deliver your couch to Princeton for $15.
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