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Buffalo Exchange
Category: Shopping Fashion Used, Vintage & Consignment Used, Vintage & Consignment [Edit]
1713 Chestnut StPhiladelphia, PA 19103
Neighborhoods: Rittenhouse Square, Penn Center
(215) 557-9850
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 8 pm
Sun 12 pm - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Phila Flea Markets organize the largest indoor/outdoor flea markets in Philadelphia. Our outdoor markets travel to various neighborhoods throughout the… read more »
113 reviews for Buffalo Exchange
Review Highlights
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"I will say that BE is very picky about the clothing." In 34 reviews -
"I have found some great pieces here, especially jewelry." In 4 reviews -
"I love thrift and consignment shops." In 20 reviews
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113 reviews in English
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Review from Walter K.
4/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Major upgrade since they expanded the space.
Basically this is a picked through, high end thrift shop. The deals aren't great but they're better than buying new.
Sometimes they love the stuff you bring in, and sometimes not. That's just the way it goes.
Like all second hand places, you need to go a lot of get lucky. -
Review from Patrizia C.
Philadelphia, PA
4/17/2012
I don't shop in this store. I've never found anything remotely cute or clean-looking enough to actually purchase. It makes me wonder why they are so picky about what they purchase.... where does all the cute stuff go??
I keep going back though, because they are the only store I know of in my area that will take the stuff I don't wear and let me walk out with some cash - sometimes.
My main pet peeve about the place is that 9 times out of 10, whoever ends up helping me with my sale is completely rude and standoffish. I've been going once a month for a year and I can only remember one time when the girl who was helping me was sweet and friendly. One time!
You're in the customer service business people! If you're going to be miserable, you're in the wrong business! -
Review from Mary M.
Ambler, PA
3/17/2012
I've been in this location a couple of times and the staff has always been kind and helpful. It was totally busy but they were all on top of straightening, dressing room duty, buying, and the register. They have a really interesting selection of clothing and I think it is a result of the offbeat style of the staff.
I haven't sold there but I work at a different consignment chain where people are perfectly happy to look through the racks and find a a variety of things while shopping, but then suddenly when they try to sell their own things the racks become "full of crap". There are several factors when it comes to buying, including their current stock, the season, condition things you might not notice but they are very used to looking for, and even whether or not the labels on the tags are older. Ask them to be specific about what they're looking for the next time before you try to sell and evaluate your things carefully, and then it won't be a waste of time for you.
The store is well-organized, brightly lit, fairly priced, and has fun stuff. I don't really think you can do much better than that. -
Review from T S.
Philadelphia, PA
4/20/2012
If you are trying to get rid of some used clothing/shoes that still look new and get a good price for them I suggest you use Ebay. Buffalo Exchange has weird standards for the items they will or will not accept. They will turn away used clothing/shoes that look new, and accept items that are stained and torn.
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Review from Tracy E.
Philadelphia, PA
Updated - 2/15/2012
Just went for the first time since their expansion to sell some clothes. I packed my giant rick springfield world tour '83 duffle bag (no,this baby isn't for sale) with clothes and shoes that i haven't worn in +2 years or that still had tags attached and lugged it over to buffalo this past Monday.
and you guyssssss, since the expansion, they are buying EVERYTHING.
I think the limited space was a factor in why they wouldn't purchase much of what was brought through there doors (unless you brought GARBAGE) but the buyer was sweet (we talked about chiffon tops and college majors) and she bought virtually everything that i brought in (expect some sandals and dresses that were quite in season). She also told me that they are always looking for poly blend dresses and urban-like prints, which always sell well, and ladies bottoms, which they are currently low on stock for.
best of all, I got a $153 store credit to update my wardrobe and they happened to be having a very good day in the racks ($8 forest green double breasted wool jacket? YES PLEASE)
can't get enough of this place, its my go to when my closet is empty and so is my wallet.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/15/2009
i originally went into buffalo to sell some clothes for cash when a friend told me about it, but… Read more »
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Review from Sarah E.
Philadelphia, PA
Updated - 10/28/2011
Fact 1: They are expanding. Praise the baby Jesus.
Fact 2: You do not talk about fight club.
Fact 3: $14.50 Betsey Johnson, tiger print, high-waisted skirt. In my size.
Fact 4: Le extra star for you Buffalo Exchange.Listed in: Me gusta.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/4/2011
I've been coming here since they've opened, but only recently have I begun to find things that the… Read more »
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Review from Elizabeth D.
Philadelphia, PA
7/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
As most have said - hit or miss. I've found some cute tops there with price tags still on, but you really have to hunt for them and sometimes the price is not THAT much less than buying off the rack. The dressing rooms are tiny, terribly lit, and cramped. The staff ranges from moody and unhelpful to friendly and quick!
It's more grown up clothing than Plato's Closet, slightly below Greene Street Consignment. The stuff they will buy from you is weird.Listed in: Steppin' Out
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Review from Lauren K.
Philadelphia, PA
7/7/2011
A+ would visit this circus again. Babies throwing their diapers at you, people trying to sell the clothes they are currently wearing, the worst hair extensions known to man.
I have probably bought and sold my wardrobe twice-over to this store. The staff is awesome; you can usually find them chain smoking outside or at Oscar's after closing. Please be nice to them; they deal with a lot of weird stuff for not a lot of money and are seriously just trying to help you out.
Some hot tips: clothing is like a car-- once you've worn it off the lot, it decreases in value by at least 75%. It's just a fact. Be nice to the employees and they will be nice to you back. Weekends, lunch breaks, and right after work are the busiest times. You are better off not coming in during those hours. Try to sell clothes that you would actually want to buy (think about it).
Also, if you're thinking of donating your clothes, please do. They go to Prevention Point Philadelphia; Tony, who handles the donations, is an awesome dude. And don't try to double park on Chestnut and run in for "just a second"-- the PPA will get you; they always do. -
Review from Tawawa P.
Philadelphia, PA
2/25/2012
i love that u can find orijenal pieces here especially jewelry. I have found some real nice authentic leather handbags and shoes. The staff is ok ...Iam not a fan i really .dont think alot (not all) of the staff know about fashion especially to be buyers. I do notice the immediate attention that is drawn to certain customers. They automatically delegate floor duty. Everyone steals in my book not just certain types of people. They all of sudden do not buy jewelry which is weird cause now their selection of jewelry is horrid also handbags and shoes The store use to have great stuff but it is now filled with cheap, tacky items. The buying process there is silly some are either too unrealistically picky and dont know a good piece or absoultly have no fashion sense and jus look at the labels so with that said ........
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Review from Aly B.
Philadelphia, PA
8/23/2011
The Good: You can definitely find some great pieces here if you're willing to look through the racks. I got a J. Crew strapless black dress for only $25 and in great shape. They have a ton of dresses, shirts, pants, etc. and most of the items definitely seem reasonably priced. Another positive is that you can sell back your stuff and get either cash on the spot (a percentage of what they're going to sell the item for) or store credit.
The Bad: I totally don't understand their selection process. And by that I mean: I moved to a new apartment this past March and cleaned out my closet. I brought 5 or 6 garbage bags stuffed full of clothes, and they were all totaly decent (black peacoat barely worn, green peacoat, nice rain trench coat, and a ton of clothes from all different seasons). They looked through every single item that I brought and told me that they weren't what they were looking for/outdated, etc. This wouldn't be confusing except that some of their clothes are HIDEOUS. I mean, disgusting t-shirts, really ugly dresses, I mean I came here and successfully found the perfect sweater to wear to my office's ugly sweater party last Christmas. Sooooo yeah. And let me just preempt any "well how ugly must your clothes be?!" with "my clothes are not ugly, hence the confusion."
The Ugly: Did I MENTION the ugly sweater party sweater!? -
Review from Rachel T.
6/15/2011
I'll start with the positive:
I have found some great pieces here, especially jewelry. I have one necklace I bought at Buffalo about a year ago that I wear almost every day. Some of my friends have searched endlessly for a similar piece.
A bunch of my favorite clothes I've bought here as well, and it's a cross between shopping for new clothes and a thrift store, because most of the clothes are already filtered through trendy hipster buyers for you.
That being said, I seriously question the filtering process that they do use when they buy clothing. In the past I've taken some of my used clothing there to (1) test how much money I could actually get for them and (2) to donate it and get it out of my house. It's a little demeaning (albeit understandably necessary) to see your clothing picked up between a slightly snobby hipster's thumb and index finger and put slowly into a 'no' or 'yes' pile. For the 'yes''s they give you a price. The 'no's then go into a bin that they claim will be donated. To what, I don't know.
I question whether these 'no's get sold in the store anyway. I have searched through the racks before, finding some of the crappiest, ugliest, torn, stained clothes that I know they didn't pay money for. I just think back to some of my really nice clothes that ended up in the 'no' pile (maybe not quite trendy enough) that were way better than a stained, pilled piece of crap shirt. I understand that buffalo is trying to fit a unique style, but something about it just doesn't seem right.
As Buffalo is not directly associated with a charity I do not want to donate my clothing to the store. I'd rather donate the clothing to a not for profit store where either the clothes themselves or the money made from them are given to a charity. I currently donate my used clothes to Philly Aids Thrift at 5th and Bainbridge, and higher end pieces I take to consignment. They can give you a receipt for a tax write-off if you need.
You will not make much money from BE anyway and you'll feel a slightly warmer and fuzzier feeling in your gut. -
Review from Dimka B.
Philadelphia, PA
9/27/2011
I remember when the Buffalo Exchange was a tiny store off 11th & Walnut St. It was clean, it didn't smell odd & it was always packed with people.
Now a bit sideways from Daffy's & right across the street from Sephora, I still like you & you're still packed but it smells funny.
The selection of clothes vary from what trendy now to retro to vintage. If you looking for something different but not retro, trendy or vintage, it's like looking for a unicorn on stilts. So come prepared to look.
I've never interacted with the staff since I'm usually shoulder deep in the racks looking for something, anything that I want to buy but I was told they very nice & helpful.
The prices are really, really good. Only reason why I keep coming back. Found a few long sleeve knit sweaters for $8 a piece. -
Review from Dina M.
Alexandria, VA
6/14/2011
This is always a must-stop destination for my friend and me when I visit Philly, but it's almost always a disappointment. I have found some great pieces here, and for that it is worth it.
The most frustrating thing is how picky the buyers are, nothing with even the slightest imperfection or a minute out of season when the store is filled with crap I can't imagine any self respecting person putting on. Last time I was there, I tried on a pair of jeans. Once I stepped into the light, I realized there were HUGE grease stains on the front. I can't count the number of times I couldn't sell a pair of pants because of a pencil point sized hole in the waistband or a neatly tailored hems, but apparently bringing your jeans in after your family cookout's fried chicken has made a Jackson Pollack painting on your lap is A-OK! This is definitely something that was wrong with the item at the time BE purchased it. Maybe the buyer has to be a buddy of yours or something.
The Greene Street in Bryn Mawr, while more expensive, is definitely a nicer place to shop. -
Review from J. A.
Washington, DC
6/26/2011
I didn't expect to be greeted by at least three different Buffalo Exchange staff members (friendly customer service in a thrift store? Friendly customer service is non-existent at my local Neiman Marcus), a lone face among the many faces shopping around on St. Patrick's Day back in March, but I was.
I didn't expect to find a killer pair of gray Helmut Lang heels here for less than $30, but I did.
I didn't expect to find several BCBG (work-friendly!) tops here in my oft-missing size (including one to-die-for 100% silk top), but I did.
In a nutshell? Whenever I am in Philly, I am always going to make it a point to stop in and shop here. I didn't think any Buffalo Exchange could top the one I used to frequent in Costa Mesa, but this location has proved me wrong. -
Review from Melissa J.
Scottsdale, AZ
10/10/2011
Ok ! I am not into second hand, or goodwill stores, but I did actually find some shoes, at this Buffalo Exchange, I have been to the one in Phoenix, and have sold some of my clothes, but I think the one in Philadelphia, has a much better selection on shoes, also a Great place to purchase Holloweeen Costumes! if you do buy shoes, make sure you spray with Lysol !
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Review from Igal K.
Philadelphia, PA
4/24/2011 24 Check-ins Here
I don't know about selling here but maybe all the shortcomings from the sales translate to excellent bargains, I have saved over $1000 buying here and it is probably because the staff isn't that knowledgeable about their clothes, but hey I don't complain.
About the fact that some people claim the staff to be rude; I go inside at leas once a week for the past 3 years, never had a bad encounter with the people that work there. -
Review from Coco M.
Narberth, PA
12/21/2011
Going here is a shot in the dark. You never know what's going to be there that day, and if you find something buy it, because it will not be there when you come back. I personally am a fan because I've found some really great stuff, but you have to dig. But for some people this is not your cup of tea, you have been warned.
ps. Nothing good for plus size women. -
Review from Felicia D.
Philadelphia, PA
9/20/2010
Have you ever had your super slammin' boyfriend or girlfriend break up with you, and then went out on dates with other, less palatable persons, only to look across the table and inwardly sigh "You're just not as good as X."
This is the feeling that washes over me every time I attempt to rummage the consignment apparel here. As a dedicated thrifter from the age of 12, I am never ascairt of piles of other people's clothes, but there has to be some gold in them hills to be worth mining.
No gold here for me; not even one wee nugget. I've been stopping by for many years on a regular basis, hoping to strike a rich lode at some point, but have been rewarded with nary a striking dress or funky belt.
Speaking of funky, I know it's a used-clothing store, but the aroma can be downright rank. The shoe section especially offends my none-too-delicate sensibilities. Pass.Listed in: Thrift Like It's 1929
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Review from Amanda C.
4/6/2011
I have been coming in here pretty regularly since high school. I have never once lucked out but have heard stories from my friends and little sister about the awesomeness of the items.
Examples- My sister found a custom made bathing suit with tags on it that was made to the measurements of her body.
-Friend found barely used frye harness boots for some insanely cheeap price.
I will continue trying this place with the hopes of finding something awesome -
Review from jillian n.
Horsham, PA
4/18/2011
I have always had positive selling experiences at Buffalo Exchange. Probably because i am not one of those people who state the value of each piece when handing it to the associate. I am always selling things i haven't worn for months. Of course its not a lot of money that i end up with ($20-$30 for a big bag of clothes) but if I am not using it anymore, then why not sell it?
The shopping experience here is exactly what other people said.. "Hit or miss"
But overall, a good place to unload some stuff and make a few $$ -
Review from Tara C.
Clementon, NJ
7/22/2010
This is a great place to go if you like hooker clothing. If you don't want to look like a streetwalker--good luck. (If you happen to be a hooker and you're reading this, sorry if I've offended you, but now you know where to shop.)
If you want to shop 'exchange' or consignment, you'd be better off spending your money to take the regional rail out to Abington, Jenkintown, Hatboro, or Lansdale--all of which have several shops superior to this one. If you think the prices are decent here because some of the stuff offered is designer...well, it's called buy designer new at TJ Maxx.
Also, I'm saying it's NOT wheelchair accessible because if you're bigger than a size 6, good luck fitting between the aisles without turning, so I doubt a wheelchair would fit in there. Also, some of the clientele matches the clothing style, if you know what I mean (not talking about people writing good reviews on here, I mean actual hookers and pimps off the street).
Second star only because hookers need to buy clothing, too...or do they? -
Review from Teresa L.
1/16/2011
This store is certainly a moving target. Some higher end brands can be found here (see Matt F.) and they are decently priced.
I will say that BE is very picky about the clothing. You may get some hiccups in trying to sell previous season clothing that's not unique or timeless.
They have a really awesome women's purse selection and a decent array of women's shoes. Sometimes there are some very questionable items in there that just never get sold and are rotating on the 50% off rack. But hey! That's where I like to go first to find some treasures at very slashed prices. -
Review from Michael W.
Philadelphia, PA
8/25/2009 ROTD 7/23/2010
I like Buffalo Exchange.
There. I said it.
Apparently I'm in the minority based on the gallons of Haterade I've seen chugged around here. What am I missing?
Frankly, I was a bit shocked when I read through a number of the Yelp reviews. Obviously, I would never suggest Buffalo as a primary source of clothing, but, compared to the other consignment/second-hand/gently used clothing boutiques I've visited throughout our ever-increasingly fashion-forward city, it's far superior to all the rest. For what it is, I think it's pretty successful.
Now, granted, I can't speak to the women's clothing like many of the Yelp posters have since I gave up on my dream to become Queen of the Desert in middle school, but as far as the men's clothing goes, I've been killing it in Buffalo since my lady dragged me there last summer.
Three Examples:
1) Cole Haan Air Gallant Penny Loafers - brand new: $40 (retail: $228)
2) Diesel Viker 008SV Jeans - lightly used, no visible wear: $30 (retail: $230, Gilt: $160) - Nota Bene: for all the rabble rousers who will scream and shout that Diesel is soooo 2005, I would argue that good jeans are good jeans so back off
3) Brooks Brothers Non-Iron Slim Fit Framed Hairline Stripe French Cuff Dress Shirt - brand new, tags on: $25 (retail: $79.50)
Over the past year, while I will admit that I haven't encountered a high volume of quality items at Buffalo, the stuff I have found has been Too Cool For TV. I agree with the consensus that there is a lot of garbage hanging around the racks, but the diamonds in the rough make wading through the muck well worth the time and effort.
In the end, I think Buffalo is superb as a complimentary clothing resource for the educated consumer.
I do have one genuine criticism, but it isn't even really directed at the store, but rather, at the miniature men who sell their shoes to Buffalo. Dudes, what's the deal? Where are all these size 8s and size 9s coming from? 8? 9? Really?
Who are these men with the tiny feet and where do they hide their pots of gold?
I can't help but look up for rainbows every time I leave the store. -
Review from Alexandra N.
San Francisco, CA
7/13/2009
Not only is their selection worse and more picked-through than what I can find at Ross, Buffalo Exchange on Chestnut street continuously rips-off their clientele who try to sell clothes back.
I brought in a huge bag of clothes to sell at Buffalo, right before I was about to move as I had a bunch of stuff I wanted to get rid of. Maybe I should have gone elsewhere, but I didn't and ended up really paying the price. Out of the clothes I brought, most were approved and tagged with a $10, at least, price tag and set aside. They must have approved of 14 or 15 items, including several nice dresses they priced at $15 each, and some jewelry which was also priced high. I even sold the big bag I had brought the clothes in, which was taken from me for $5.
What I want to know is how they figure their math. If I sold them ten or more items for $10 and over, how the hell did I walk away with $22 in hand? I didn't argue because I was running late to meet one of my girlfriends, and the girl behind the counter didn't give me a receipt, and I didn't really think about it until I got into my friend's car.
"I think I just got ripped off," I told her, then explained what happened at the store. She confirmed my suspicion, but with no receipt there was nothing I could do. Someone, please investigate the shady business practices that go on in this Buffalo Exchange.Listed in: Sweet Home Killadelphia
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Review from Carrie E.
Philadelphia, PA
1/4/2009
Buffalo Exchange, I'm pullin' for ya. I keep going back, hoping that somehow this time will be different (wait, isn't that the definition of insanity?), only to walk out empty-handed and forlorn. Where are the treasures I seek? Where are the deals?
Yes, thrifting is a game of chance and perseverance, and when I'm in the mood, I can dig around for hours just to find that perfect broach or pair of hot pants (ok, maybe that's taking it a bit too far...). But so far I've only struck out here. Luckily the staff is nice and it's big enough that there is a lot to choose from. So don't come with a plan but do come with lots of time. Maybe you'll discover that shiny '70's cocktail dress I've been dreaming of but have yet to uncover. -
Review from Melissa C.
New York, NY
9/1/2011
noooooo. just, no.
i looked for hours. i had low expectations. if you're looking for Charlotte Russe-style sale rack items, however, welcome home! -
Review from Rachel S.
Philadelphia, PA
6/2/2010
When I bring my used clothes to Buffalo Exchange, I feel like each item is on a speed-date with the person behind the counter. And boy, are they one picky first date. i never know what's "right." Not the right label? Too old? Out of season? Not trendy enough? i never can tell. 9 times out of 10 I go home with the same sack o' clothes I brought. i usually end up donating and regret lugging it downtown when there's a clothing drop bin at a church right around the corner. C'est la vie.
Overall, they have some good stuff in there - but I think it's a little pricey at times. I understand the bigger labels getting a higher price, but the ironic bar mitzvah tees that someone donated shouldn't be $8.
I do, however, love the $1 sidewalk sales. Sliding through the crowds and picking through the old man plaid shorts and neon t shirts is well worth the treasures nestled inside. I found the most delightfully tacky 1960s bright orange go-go dress. ONE DOLLAR! -
Review from Melissa Z.
Philadelphia, PA
2/20/2008
Dear Buffalo Exchange,
You piss me off to no end.
I brought you some barely worn, nice clothing, you didn't even give me enough money to buy lunch. I gave you a $40 dress, which you resold for $30, and only gave me $2 for it.
In short, I hate you.
Personally, I find it cheaper to just search through the sale sections at the actual store. They had an H&M shirt there that was actually on sale and cheaper at the H&M store. Absurd.
The whole thrill of thrift/vintage/consignment/etc. shopping is searching!!! I found a vintage 1930's, beautifully constructed dress in a used furniture store and it only cost $5.
If you look in the right places, you're bound to find gold. If you shop at Buffalo Exchange, you're bound to be ripped off. -
Review from Rachel K.
Philadelphia, PA
9/29/2008
I hate this place.
As a devoted shopper I usually wear things only once or twice sometimes never. So I decided to sell my clothes at Buffalo Exchange to get some cash back. They pass up brands such as Miu Miu, guess, gap, B.R. but dont mind taking in my H+M n Forever 21 threads. WTH?
Is this about labels or style?? Because my new Gap Skinny Jeans certainly didnt pass the test!
Even if my items sell.. I get back a measly $5 per item??? $5 for a nice pair of Steve Madden new pumps???
I gave them 1 star because at least I got the money up front.
Advice-better to buy then sell. -
Review from Gab R.
Hurleyville, NY
10/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
I would definitely come back here. Most memorable purchase: a gorgeous olive green colored Ella Moss blouse for $17. Don't forget the Second Time Around across the street!
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Review from Vicki M.
Delaware County, PA
Updated - 7/30/2008
Yesterday was my first trip to Buffalo as a shopper.
I walked out $75 lighter, but with 3 pairs of jeans and a cute summer dress. Yeah, you've gotta search around a bit, but when you find Lucky Jeans in the perfect length that make your ass look slammin' for only $26, it's alllll worth it.Listed in: Oh Hipsters!, This economy sucks!, Chains
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/28/2008
I know a lot of you are complaining about selling clothes, but I think you're forgetting that the… Read more »
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Review from Lene P.
Philadelphia, PA
8/15/2008
I don't shop for clothes often but this is one of the few places I would go if I had to. Truthfully, I'm mostly interested in their $1 sales that go to causes, and I only really do the ones that help animals (Morris refuge, lonely george, etc.)
So keep your eyes out for fliers promoting these events! You'll never know when you'll score something awesome. Bring CASH (only!), be prepared for madness and arrive early! -
Review from Matt F.
Philadelphia, PA
12/29/2010 12 Check-ins Here
I come here rather frequently, because it's defiantly a "hit or miss" store.
They've got a variety of clothing and accessories, many of which are very unique and trendy. I've seen many expensive labels like, Burberry, Lacoste, Gucci, and D&G in here before, and they were priced well. I find many labels like, American Apparel, Levi, and Nike at almost half the price they go in retail stores. the only real downside is they don't have a very large selection of Men's hoodies or jackets in size small.
I defiantly recommend coming here. They also restock their inventory every Tuesday or so. -
Review from George R.
Los Angeles, CA
1/3/2008
I just sold some stuff to this Buffalo Exchange and for the most part, I am satisfied with the outcome. I dealt directly with the manager who looked over my clothing. She pulled out about 80% of the items that I thought were feasible for resale.
However, the other 20% bothered me. I was selling fairly recent Ralph Lauren pants and t-shirts and she just passed them over because they wouldn't "sell" in their location. They really cater to their clients who aren't really interested in classic preppy clothing, but more shabby chic and vintage pieces. So, I didn't fight it because I know that my style is much more conservative than the customers at BuffEx and almost every used clothing joint in Philadelphia. (...too bad I'm not reselling in Southern Connecticut... do they even have vintage stores there?)
If anything, they are thorough in checking for wear and tear in all donated garments as well as age. She was so picky as to say that the "Kenneth Cole labels" on my pants "were of the older style" and they are trying to keep styles as current as possible. I guess people are going here to actually find the new collection, but at a fraction of the cost.
I didn't look at the selection, but I was fairly surprised at the prices that
were quoted for the things I donated. They were reasonable, all under $20, but for used stuff, I'd have paid $6 less than what was quoted. Like any used clothing place, you have to comb over the selection to find hidden treasures.
What did I learn: it is hard being told that your old clothes are worthless and if you are planning on getting rid of clothes, make sure that you sell them before too many years go by. -
Review from Escritora R.
Philadelphia, PA
Updated - 7/22/2011
This rotten store gets thumbs all the way down. I tried once again to sell pieces there, and my items were rejected. The funny thing is, all my items sell at Greene Street on South St. Always. It's a pain to have to wait for the consignment check instead of getting money on the spot, but in the end, it's worth it. (Greene's 10-piece minimum is also annoying, but whatever.) Save yourself some hassle (especially with the parking) and avoid Buffalo Exchange. It's a crap store run by snots, and I hope they run themselves right out of business with their horrible policies and caprice.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/15/2011
"Meh, I've experienced better" is right. Shopping or selling here is an exercise in futility. As a… Read more »
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Review from Sara P.
Philadelphia, PA
3/8/2010
I LOVE places like Buffalo exchange, because they are so incredibly convenient! There's new stuff, old stuff, and they buy your stuff. Gotta love it! IMO, this Buffalo is also one of the best. It is bigger and they actually pay you more for your items than the one in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. All definite plusses!
What I love about shopping at this store (like most stores of this ilk), is that they generally aren't that knowledgeable about their product. Sure, they know the big clothing designers like Gucci, Marc Jacobs, etc., but they don't have a clue about vintage. Last year, I picked up one of the rarest bakelite dot bracelets you can find, and it was $2. I've also snagged lots of gold, 60's shift dresses, 70s Victor Costa, 70's H Bar C mens western shirts, and so much more for practically nothing. Yeah, the cost is often more than thrift store items, but the clothing is almost always in good condition and they usually have a great selection for men and women.
If you're a seller, it's most likely not going to be an amazing experience. When you go in, tell yourself that it's not personal. You must realize that the people buying your clothes most likely don't have a clue about vintage, lesser known designers, avant-garde fashion, etc. They are only buying for the "trend" factor. Just because you paid a lot for an item does not mean that it will sell (and, if it does, you may only get $5 for it). Jewelry is better, as it's small and easier for them to sell quickly. Shoes.... well, unless they are new and in the box or high end designer, they will probably be going back home with you. And, above all, if you feel like they are giving you too little for your item, take it back! There are always other places to sell your items, like consignment stores (see Bella Boutique), Craigslist, and flea markets.Listed in: The Ultimate Philadelphia…
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Review from Britt M.
Philadelphia, PA
6/19/2008
Oh, Buffalo Exchange. Obviously if you have the stamina to hunt around, you can find a couple good things in here. Most of the women's fitted t-shirts are very faded/stretched out. I love their cases of jewelry though, and it's usually very unique and affordable.
I brought a bag of clothes here the other day to sell, and they only took one necklace out of a selection of jeans, purses, sweaters, nice pants, etc. That was a little disappointing, but at the end they asked if I would like to donate the things that did not get selected and I said yes, so it's good that they're actually helping the unfortunate too and not just sending people home with bags of old clothes they were trying to get rid of. -
Review from Victoria C.
Devon, PA
7/16/2010
So I stopped by Buffalo Exchange today during my lunch break. I walked two blocks and realized that I probably should I looked at Google Maps more clearly, especially since it felt like 101 degrees outside! (seriously, it said so on http://Weather.com) When I finally got there, I felt a little out of place, at first. See, I was dressed all in business clothes, odd I know, but the staff was friendly and I felt better about being there (or maybe it was because I looked like I had money to spend).
Either way, I had a good experience. The place was clean and orderly. I found a bunch of cute clothes to try on and ended up taking home a pair of Arden B. jeans and a Jessica Simpson tube top all for under $30. I felt awful about not picking up some cute heels... but I had to control my youthful shopaholic urges. So to make up for that, I keep telling myself that I did the right thing. Not picking up those super cute, my size, BCBGirls heels... I DID THE RIGHT THING. I DID.
I had a great time at the store. I will def. return before I head off to college at the end of summer.
PS: All those people that post on here saying that they have name brand clothing they couldn't sell? Well, I'm seriously looking for some good Guess, etc. clothes to wear to college. If Buffalo is paying you $2-5, I will pay you double. Contact me! (hope I'm not breaking any Yelp rules :/ ) -
Review from Bill M.
Updated - 5/2/2009 9 Check-ins Here
One reason I'm upping my rating is because I always manage to find a pair of kick ass sneakers that I simply have to have whenever I'm browsing in here. And when you have a size 13 foot like I do It's not exactly an easy task to accomplish. But not only has Buffalo done it for me, they've done it in the form of Slip on Vans shoes for $30, and vintage looking Air Jordan's for $20!
But the bargains and treasures don't stop there. I've walked away with an old school trench coat for $5, and a sweet and hard to find Doc Marten's jacket for $70! Almost every sweet ass looking sweater that I've owned has come from Buffalo, and for most I've only paid upwards of $15. If your a dedicated thrifter like I am then you'll walk away with 3 or 4 treasures on a good day, and at least 1 on a bad.
Another reason I'm upping my review is because I had the chance to meet Yelp's own Kara P. during the $1 sale, and she proved to be a class act.Listed in: The Highlight Reel, Born to Shop, Thrifty Pants Style
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/13/2007
If your looking for a traditional thrift store go elsewhere. But if your looking for a place that… Read more »
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Review from Josie M.
11/2/2008
Buffalo exchange is overpriced, period. Honestly I've never been wowed by anything in there and have been shocked at some of the prices on salvation-army worthy things. The store is way too small (not their fault obviously, but it makes it a pain to try to wind your way through it).
I would suggest taking a walk with your money and going down to H&M and getting new, nice things for what you'd pay for old stuff at buffalo.Listed in: Shopping
