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Buffalo Exchange
Category: Shopping Fashion Used, Vintage & Consignment Used, Vintage & Consignment [Edit]
1210 Valencia Street(between 23rd St & 24th St)
San Francisco, CA 94110
Neighborhood: Mission
(415) 647-8332
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
135 reviews for Buffalo Exchange
Review Highlights
"the staff is GRAND and the clothes are rockin."
(in 60 reviews)
"...picked up some cute Marc Jacobs pants and several nifty..."
(in 6 reviews)
"...have a huge selection of designer jeans and racks of shoes."
(in 4 reviews)
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135 reviews in English
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Review from Pierre B.
San Francisco, CA
12/29/2011
I usually visit this store on occasions. I was feeling bored on the weekends and was wondering if I'll drop by and do some frugal shopping. I haven't been doing reviews lately so I'm writing then before the end of 2011 :)
I usually find some interesting dress shirts and flannels, not so much pendletons here though, but they do have a few designers like marc jacobs and superdry. They also have a random selection of jackets, a dash are quite uber, a majority are a bit quasi-trendy.
This branch caters more for women's wear, I'm sure my girl friends love this place :) I find it quite interesting that whenever you need clothes for a costume party, they do have a selection of accessories for it.
I gave the place 4 stars since it's quite far to get to unless you're within the Valencia district. Comparing to the branches in San Francisco, I still prefer the Haight-Ashbury one based on selection and epicenter of shopping attraction. -
Review from D F.
San Francisco, CA
1/22/2012
I brought in 2 items one day, and the employee offered a considerable amount of money for them but I decided to hold on to them. Today, another employee rejected both items and gave me chump change store credit for some nice Levi's.
The selection is O.K. at best.
Terrible customer service, they hire random hipsters from Dolores Park.
Haight Street Deserves the other 4 stars. -
Review from Cecilia D.
San Francisco, CA
11/21/2011
Rude employees and so so selection.
go to the Buffalo Exchange on Haight. -
Review from Jannea T.
San Francisco, CA
2/5/2012
I prefer this location to the one in the Haight. It has a way better selection of accessories, and I always find the best bottoms, like jeans, skirts, shorts etc.
One time I found a pair of velvety Johnson shorts there. Those puppies run $200-300 in boutiques and guess what I paid.... $12!!!
I also really enjoy buying what I can second hand. I think its a good thing to do. Its made easy here because you don't have to dig through a bunch of junk. It's a great way to ease into thrift shopping if you're not totally into it.
P.S. To all the folks freaking out about selling their clothes here:
Stop it! Don't take it personally when they don't buy your clothes! Alot of the time, they are just looking for specific things, because they have plenty of stock. Sometimes they only need sweaters and jeans, tough luck. I have found that they are much more likely to buy stuff if it isn't wrinkled and smells nice, also. AND... Men's clothes are a million times more likely to get bought, because the styles don't change quite as quickly for them. So if all you're looking for is a little dough for shopping, clean out your BOYFRIEND'S closet :) -
Review from Nicole Mandy S.
San Francisco, CA
2/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
Just sold my stuff here &it's basically if you take cash you get half of whatever you made from the store . I'm a little taken back though, looking at the prices on the used/thrifty clothes were ridiculous ... &make sure you watch your stuff because the first time i went there i brought a box into the store put it on the seat &i went back to my car to get my other box, i saw this man hovering over my box that was IN the store touching my sh*t, i was pissed as hell. Just make sure you watch your stuff !!!
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Review from Gab R.
Newton, MA
1/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
Kind of small. For the first time ever, I didn't find something at a BE.
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Review from Alena B.
11/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a pretty funky place. I had heard wonderful things about it from my friends in the City and was excited to go. My husband wandered in wearing some crappy Nike's that aren't more than 3 months old but have literally fallen apart with minimal wear (he wears vibrams to run and dress shoes to work so...seriously?!). Anyways I was determined to find him something a little more fashionable than basic trainers because now that he has his crazy finger shoes he doesn't have need for a cross trainer. Buffalo had only one pair of shoes that fit the bill but that is enough for us!! They had lots of cool left over Halloween costumes and some great deals on random earrings and sunglasses. It's a funky shop where they weed out all the crap by only buying kitschy urbanish items.
We didn't have much trouble finding parking in the neighborhood pretty close to the shopfront. Granted it was Sunday at noon and we used the suicide lane to park but so much's the better!
So in the end my hubby left wearing an outstanding pair of (I swear) close-to-never-been-worn Diesel trainers for 32 bucks. BARGAIN! I got to throw away those nasty Nike's on the way out. WIN WIN! -
Review from Kami L.
San Francisco, CA
11/15/2011
I long ago gave up on shopping at Buffalo Exchange... for me wasn't worth the experience of the uber hipster workers who were of no help. I never appreciated being talked to with a condescending attitude while selling clothes or simple asking to try something on. I also found the picked over corporate used clothing model to be a bit boring.
The Valencia store has totally changed my opinion of Buffalo Exchange. I always find something I want (and really reasonably priced) and the staff here is superb. Workers here are super friendly and extremely helpful.
My last visit here my friend found a nice wool peacoat for $25-ish (can't exactly remember) and I found a rad un-worn jean jacket with a hand painted virgen de guadalupe for $8.50. -
Review from May D.
East Bay, CA
12/10/2011
Although this Valencia location is much smaller than the one on Telegraph, it's not as smelly as the one on Haight and it's less crowded. I never really cared much for the clothes in either two of these locations, until I step foot in the Valencia store. Here I found a black blazer with lace overlay and a brown leather jacket both priced at $14. This place has better quality and selection of clothing, plus it's much cheaper than the prices I've seen at Haight and Telegraph.
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Review from Carol Y.
5/28/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Since when did it become fashionable to purchase used clothing?
This store was once my last stop before dumping non-closet-space-worthy clothing on the Goodwill doorstep. While there, why not browse? Not to buy anything, obviously! Just to see what the store considered resellable. Damn, cute skirt. Oh look, it just so happens to be in my size. Eff it, I'll try it on for ish and giggles. Hmm, I have a top that would go perfectly with this. Whatever, it's super cheap and I can use a credit from my sales on this. All I have to do is wash it first. No one will ever know. And no one ever found out. And I came back. Again and Again.
What I love most about this store and stores like it is the fact that they end up carrying items that I would never have found on my own. These are items that others once loved enough to purchase, but for one reason or another could not pull off. It's not usually the granny wear on its last leg that you'd find down at the Salvation Army. The workers--often thought of as clothing Nazis-- selectively sift through each and every item choosing only pieces they think are rackspace-deserving to occupy the floor of their tiny shop. Maybe it's the location of the store that draws the Mission hipsters in to sell their gear for bike repairs or messenger bags because I have found some pretty fashionable ish here in the past and I still wonder which retail stores they came from.
The prices here are not as low as in other similar stores I've been too, but they are greatly reduced from retail. It sort of allows me to take bigger fashion risks knowing that my splurging isn't really all that much of a splurge. And hell, if I can't rock it, I can sell it back and try again. -
Review from Stephanie C.
San Francisco, CA
6/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
So after reading review after review of this particular BE, I decided to bring in some of my clothes. I will admit that some of the items I brought in were older, meaning I bought them or they were given to me within the last 2-3 years, so I wasn't expecting to get much. For the most part, I wanted to get rid of them since they were taking up much needed closet space.
I brought in a few shirts, three pairs of jeans, a couple nice tops, a couple dresses, a coat, and two pairs of shoes. Out of all of this, the buyer took only ONE pair of jeans. I was pretty surprised because I thought she'd take the plaid shirts I brought in, and definitely the shoes, but they weren't "in style". Meh, oh well...whatever. I made a whopping $4.38, haha.
Overall, it was a good experience. From other reviews I figured the girl, who was the buyer, was the manager. She was the redhead and she was actually really nice to me. She said that even though she didn't take much - or anything really - that my clothes were in good condition and encouraged me to bring in more. I didn't want to schlep the rest of my "unstylish" clothes to another BE or Crossroads so I asked her to donate them. Someone is bound to want some Pocahontas style booties, right? ;P -
Review from Michelle Y.
San Francisco, CA
4/10/2011
Like many have mentioned before.....
SNOOTY STUCK UP BUYER! The first girl (petite asian) was very nice and friendly then the Manager (tall red head) takes over and she had snooty, stuck up attitude!! This was my first time at this location, I always go to the one on Haight. First and last time...
I took some time to shop around the store and I felt like the prices at this store were so much higher. On average $13-20+ Some things I feel might be extremely close to the price of something brand new!
Bad experience. Go to the other locations. This one sucks. -
Review from Rae A.
San Francisco, CA
9/6/2011
The only rule I abide by when I go thrift shopping anywhere is: unless I really like it and the clothes fit perfectly on me - I'm not buying any one thing for over $15. (At places like Goodwill & Thrift Town, my limit turns to $10 max.)
I prefer this Buffalo Exchange to the one on Haight because it's slightly more inexpensive. I've bought so many cute shoes here, each for less than $20 and I feel like I've walked away with such a steal! The best thing I've ever gotten here was a pair of Aldo Nude Stiletto Pumps for $13. And they looked nearly brand new!
Their screening process is amazing. Thumbs up for exchanging people's clothes for store credit or cash!
Make sure to hit up that 50% off rack. There's a lot of good stuff hidden in there. -
Review from Jennifer P.
San Francisco, CA
7/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
the best selling experience i've ever had. and not because they bought everything, cuz they didn't. now, i wasn't one of those hauling my junk in there, hoping to get enough cash to pay my rent or store credit to buy a new identity. seriously... suitcases, people??
so, of course they bought all my betsey pieces, but passed on some good nine west boots and enzo, prob too "conservative" for them hipsters... (i'm a career gal now and hung up my mission garb a while ago...) ha.
it was the best experience because of their PEEPS! i observed as i waited for my turn to sell, (btw, odd set up, they don't give you a sign in sheet, so it's the honor system, which is kinda out of place in the mission? honor and system??) anyway, i digress, so i was waiting/observing and i was totally, pleasantly surprised that they were all so personable, genuinely engaged, and actually seemed appreciative that you are selling them inventory WHICH is the livelihood of their biz. wtf with these joints that make you feel like they are doing YOU a favor by buying your clothes? i mean really, their biz model exists because of us. the other places i've sold, these raggedly bitches that are prob just pissed that they can't poach your stuff cuz they look like they get the munchies way too often and down the pints at zeitgeist like it's water.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, i was impressed by chris the manager who helped me, but i have to give total honorable mention (shoot, didn't get his name) but to the tall, thin guy with blond hair that was helping some chick that was... check this out, trying to sell two paper grocery bags full of panites. um... really?! and let's just say that it totally looked like she probably made some dirty dollars in them! ick. BUT that saint of a guy helping her, was so diplomatic and personable with her. dude, i have to say, i would have been, "what is wrong with you?!" this ain't the goodwill AND btw, goodwill doesn't even take your panties. some peeps...
some tips...
if you've designer stuff, professional garb, or overall stuff that looks like marina yahoos would wear, this prob ain't the best place to try and sell it.
if you have outdated stuffs, especially for those of us over 30, some kid in the mission will think it's "retro" and buy it. sad, but true.
also, seems like this joint is the best if you are selling kooky stuff; i.e. accessories, bandeau (really??) tops, screen tees, pseudo hip hop/hipster/skater/bad suburban sport gear stuff, like anything converse, puma, adidas (maybe), but prob not nike or under armour, that's too marina-esque.
shoes, def should be in good condition, but that's luck of the draw, i saw everything from betsey to soda (cheapy) to colin stuart (total VS line, that's victoria secret's)
other brands i saw (amusingly so), h&m (really? just buy yourself some new shit, how much cheaper can you go?) oh well, now that i think of it, target brands were there too! funny to see j crew in the mix, not a fan, but suppose for those hipsters that are interviewing, would buy it??
i did see one sweet marc jacobs jacket, but at $38 for someone else's stuff, hmm.... you can check out ideeli, blue fly, rue la la, loehmann's and get it new for not much more...
overall, i would plug this place and it is the first buy/sell store i ever have recommended.
good luck selling your crap, i mean stuff. ;) -
Review from Mission S.
Mountain View, CA
Updated - 1/20/2011
disclaimer: I swear I don't work for BE but I'm going to update my review because I love this Buffalo Exchange so much.The selection is awesome and it's awesome because the buyers really work hard to curate the collection in the store. I've always found them to be nice.
And to all the angry reviewers, I'm going to say it again: look, they are a business, not a charity. If you really want to unload your stuff: donate to a charity and try for a tax write-off. BE has a limited store space and seriously, think about why *you* are trying to get rid of that stuff in the first place. Would you pick it up again, try it on, or buy it? The store is not that big.
Also, the reason you feel like you aren't getting a lot for your clothes is because of the harsh reality that clothing like Lululemon depreciates in value - even if you've never downward dogged in them, simply because BE customers aren't buying it in the Vanguard cult store the minute it hits the rack.
Used clothing doesn't sell for a lot. If BE offered you more than 30% of the sale price, they would never make a profit. Again: a business, not a charity. Consider, throwing your shit on a chain-link fence for insta-market if you want more.
Finally, just because clothing is new or expensive or has tags doesn't mean a damn thing. This is really a larger point that goes beyond the walls of BE and to how susceptible you are to marketing and economics. Read some Adam Smith.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/25/2008
One of the best sources of free entertainment : watching people people have just cleaned out their… Read more »
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Review from Christina O.
San Francisco, CA
12/22/2010
Buffalo Exchange is one of those places you keep going back to and realizing all over again the reason why you DON'T go back for a while.
I left today saying to myelf, "Now I know why I don't go there often."
Kind of like an ex-boyfriend, I rather just not look back; to this location atleast.
First of all THRIFT STORES are a place where you can get a whole outfit for $20 not just a plain Forever 21 or H&M shirt for $12-$16. The clothing is overpriced and the workers are snotty if you're not a "hipster."
Forget selling clothes here. Save your time and gas, go donate them to your local Goodwill or REAL thrift store. They go through your clothes like they're the uncoolest thing on earth. Please, I know if I had a bunch skinny jeans, flannel shirts, or old beatles shirts they woulda sold, but whatever. It's hard not to stereotype a group of people, when it's plain and simple by the look of the employee's wardrobes that....if it isn't the style they got on, they're not buying it.
Save your time. If you really want to go to a Buffalo Exchange go to the one on Haight St. atleast you can continue on to other stores nearby and have more options.
Ciao. -
Review from P. William G.
San Francisco, CA
10/3/2010
The shoes of a dead man. Salvatore Ferragamo. Chukka boots. Size eleven and a half. Double E. My precise size. Suede brown leather. Not a scratch to be found. Forty bucks for six hundred dollar shoes. They must be the shoes of a dead man. How else could they have gotten there, a small thrift shop on Valencia?
Two tattooed saleswomen separate shirts from pants behind the counter. They are laughing together at some unspoken joke, with some unnamed punch line shared between them long ago. They are beautiful in their grace. One sells me these Ferragamos, the shoes of a dead man. She puts them in a bag. She hands the bag to me with a smile, with a thank you. The saleswomen go back to laughing at their inside joke, which is not mine to share. I walk out of the store, holding the shoes of a dead man in a bag. -
Review from Amy W.
San Francisco, CA
10/15/2010
Ok, I get it. I am not that cool. My clothes are out of date or were never cool to begin with. When I go to sell back my clothes I am just looking for some quick cash. I am not looking to be judged like a freshman during sorority rush.
The worst is when you think you will get a ton for some ultra cool (expensive at the time) piece and they hold it up just long enough for you to think you will get that 6 dollars from them. Then they look at you with their plastic glasses, flourescent T-shirt and skinny jeans. They are judging you and you know it. Then they put it in the "nice try" pile and ask if you want to donate that gently used dress that you used to think was was super hip. No way jose, I will put it back in my closet just to spite you.
Next time I'll try to sell the few piece of clothes I own that are super cool. Wait, wouldn't I just keep it then? -
Review from Kei H.
San Francisco, CA
7/23/2011
I'm surprised to see so many negative reviews about the selling experience here. I've unloaded stuff here a couple of times, and that's pretty much the way I see it: I'm getting rid of some shit I don't want anymore. I can either do it here, where it's convenient and I might get something in exchange; or I can drop it at Goodwill. I've never felt "judged" by the buyers - if anything, they tend to be chattier than is really necessary, almost as if they're trying to overcompensate for not taking what is, once again, your castaways. Whatever, it's not like you come here to make friends or have your ego stroked.
Either way, the selection and prices here are hard to beat. I've stopped in to get a dress to wear to a wedding, sweats for yoga class, shoes, work clothes, you name it. No matter what I have in mind when I walk in, I find it, it's nice, and it's cheap. And actually, some of the stuff I've gotten here is just unbelievable: I scored an awesome Minnie Wilde jacket for $24, a really cute MJ miniskirt for $18, etc. I don't even set foot in Anthropologie anymore because I can just come here and get whatever I would have gotten there for a tenth of the price. What else could you want from a thrift shop? -
Review from Faye P.
Daly City, CA
7/13/2011
One word: Racist.
I dont usually give 1 star ratings and I'm usually lenient with my reviews, but my experience here SUCKED. I came in with my sister to sell a BUNCH of clothes. From my sister's batch, they picked absolutely nothing, and from mine, my Van's bowling bag. I honestly felt a little racism going on here. The day we went in, it was pretty busy at the line where you sell your clothes. There were about 4 people in front of us, all non asians. It took soooo long for us to get our turn but in the meantime, I was observing what they were picking out from the other customers and I thought, Hmm, I'm pretty confident they'll take some of my stuff after looking at the other stuff they took from other customers. Sooo, it's finally my sister's turn and they made her dump her clothes out on the counter so they can ''look'' at what she has. I say "look'' cuz I was watching the guy, who had no kind of emotion in his face btw, that was helping her and he barely even looked at her stuff, he was basically just picking it up and tossing it back in the bag like it was some kind of dirty laundry. Finally, he was like ''Unfortunately, we're not gonna buy anything today." My sister then looked at me and gave me an ''oh well'' shoulder shrug. Then it was my turn, they did the EXACT same thing as if my stuff was some kind of dirty laundry. They finally picked out my Van's purse and bought it for 22 and i got like what 6 bucks back? Whatevs. I took the cash because I was definitely not coming back to this location. Honestly, most of my stuff were super nice and most were worn only a few times. This goes for my shoes, heels, belts, pants, shirts, dresses, skirts that I was trying to sell. Some of my items still had tags on them.
Yes, I brought in a variety of clothes only to get NOTHING picked and when I was watching the things they were picking from other ''non asian'' ppl, my stuff was definitely waaaay better. They were picking some grandma looking clothing, but picked absolutely nothing from mine. The lifeless guy was even like, "Unfortunately, you dont have anything we're looking for thats fitting for this season." You mean, summer? Cuz I couldve sworn i had a lot of nice blouses, racerbacks, skirts, dresses, floral stuff that are super fitting for the summer. WHATEVER.
The thing that pisses me off even more is that they're a thrift store, a PICKY thrift store. I mean, give me a break, YOURE A THRIFT STORE. Call it what you want, but when it comes down to it, thats what this store is. I'm sure I can sell my stuff for waaay more at a garage sale and ppl will be more than happy to buy it. If I could give them ZERO stars, I would. Never coming here again, at least not at this snobby location.
PS. Their clothing is waaay too overpriced for a thrift store. I can buy NEW and better clothes at these prices, if not, cheaper! Next! -
Review from liz c.
12/6/2010
On one hand, I ought to give this Buffalo location at least four stars because the customer service was exceptional (I've NEVER been to a BE with salespeople that are THAT cheerful and THAT conversational) and they bought at least four items off me when the last thrift store didn't take any. That's pretty good by my standards.
But on the other hand, I only received $35 for those four items (3 of which were designer). And could barely find anything that I wanted. Luckily, I've come to accept that it's usually a hit or miss with Buffalo Exchange.
I left with a few items that I was happy with but in general, found the selection to be very sparse.
I came hoping to find a good pair of name brand jeans (or otherwise, I guess). I couldn't find a decent pair of pants in my size without having to stare sadly at a tear or rip. I was surprised to find so many of their premium denim brands (True Religion, 7 For All Mankind, Joe's) badly damaged. I was excited about a pair of straight leg Joe's in my size when I saw a huge fraying slash down the inseam. No exaggeration, several other jeans had holes or small rips. Why buy damaged goods? Even for thrift store prices?
Many of their tops and dresses were a pure hodge podge to me. I wasn't in the mood to dig like crazy but you really have to be suited for that type of shopping at this location. Most likely, I'll go back to sell again but I won't expect to find much in return. -
Review from Sarina I.
San Francisco, CA
5/28/2010
A couple of years ago I would have rated this location 4 stars. I used to shop here a few times in a 2 months span. I even found a couple of things that I still love to this day from here, but I had enough! Since today I decided to yelp them, giving it 2 stars. Why only two??
-The stuff just keeps getting WAAAY overpriced. They think they're giving you some kind of deal. Pleaaaassse. They turned thrifting into some snobby sport that I hate now.
-Employees are so prententious if you do not dress like them. I swear. I get this vibe from them even when I buy something. I greet them before they greet me and they hardly acknowledge me but welcome folks right behind me!
-Selling clothes here is a pain in the ass! I know how picky places like these can be but they're whole selling process is just rude. They make it all personal like they don't want YOUR stuff. Plus the times that I have waited, they thanked others for waiting and not me? what;s up with that?!
-Seriously, it annoys me cus they think they're thee shit. Forget this place. This location stinks. I'll definitely spend my money elsewhere.Listed in: Thriftin' All Over the place!
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Review from Amanda L.
San Francisco, CA
10/4/2010
I'll give them two stars because I assume that there must be something worthwhile going on somewhere in there on the recycle principle alone, plus my BFF loves the Buffalo Exchg elsewhere soooo....
This location? The staff are complete jerks - they really really think they are the shit, and really, why? PBR drinking, used clothes wearing, chain-smoking, muppets? Puh-leeze.
The stuff they have in there is totally unimpressive, the Good Will is more exciting, the prices are silly, and frankly, to have to put up with their staff is just not worth the hassle. -
Review from Vi N.
Stockton, CA
8/17/2010
There wasn't a huge variety here, but it's not thoroughly picked over and there is a good amount of cute, clean stuff. Prices were pretty reasonable. I'm a size XS, so it's usually kind of hard for me find things in my size when I go thrifting, but there was a BCBG dress for $16, a BB Dakota dress for $20, and an Express dress for $12. Brands are contemporary...I saw a couple vintage-y things but for the most part everything is newer.
Staff was friendly, and I made conversation with the guy working the dressing room and the girl at the register. Overall nothing was standout, but if I was back in the area I would definitely stop by. -
Review from Genella L.
Daly City, CA
1/21/2011
So i'm having serious sellers remorse. I didn't realize how attached I was to some of the clothing I just sold there. Why did I sell a Tory Burch dress, Moschino kitchy purse, Margaret OLeary cashmere sweaters, designer jeans, etc? I actually miss these pieces! I made some cash, which was sweet. But I almost would have preferred to give them to people I know or at least would appreciate the detail and quality of the pieces. Notice I said almost, because in the end, these pieces were just taking up space in my very limited closet. Now I have some space and some cash to fill it with new clothes!
The selling part of it all was predictable. The pieces that I sold were the pieces I had a strong feeling would sell. I brought some "work wear" tops that I figured wouldn't sell, and they didn't. I also brought some very nice wrap dresses that didn't sell. I'm not upset or suprised they didn't sell. The pieces were more traditional, timeless pieces, and it's just not BE's steez to buy those kind of clothes. Think more trend, high-end, vintage-y looking clothes, and if you think your clothes fit the bill, then try and sell them. I also brought the pieces that I would still wear, because (as someone else said) if I wouldn't wear them, why would someone else?
Also, different buyers buy different things. I had a few pieces that were just tossed aside by one chick there. When someone else came to relieve her, she looked over the clothes and purchased the ones that didn't sell initally. I felt sort of strange about seeing them price a couple of purses for 40 bucks, but knowing how much was actually paid for it. This was my first time selling clothes and purses, so maybe I'll do some research about selling on consignment at different stores next time.
As for purchasing, I found two tops. One new (i think), a black dolman shirt for 16 bucks, and a casual Marc Jacobs shirt for 22 bucks. They have some cool pieces if you have the eye, time and stamina.
I pop in here once a year or so. I'm sure I'll be back again. -
Review from Claire M.
Cupertino, CA
6/24/2010
BOO.
This location really sucks.
Why you may ask?
1. Unfriendly staff
2. Very limited selection
3. No designer labels which is usually what I go after -
Review from Casey S.
9/18/2010
It's all about the hunt at Buffalo Exchange. You don't go in expecting to pick up a pair of black size 11 Chucks; that will only lead to frustration. The key to success is to just browse every now and again, occasionally stumbling across that killer piece of clothing you can't live without.
Think of it as a craigslist in real life. With the right timing and some persistence, you too can find some good stuff. Don't like it? Go to the Gap or something - more for me! -
Review from Flor D.
Kilauea, HI
3/22/2010
Yes they buy clothes, but the girls who do the buying come off extremely stuck up and rude.
I mean, I know your super fashionable, cool, hip and trendy . . .
but we cant all be as cool as you. . . Sophie? Sadie? i forget. -
Review from stephy s.
San Francisco, CA
2/22/2010 1 photo
Help! My pants have fallen and they can't get up!
I am all for jeans that ride very close to the muffin top or show some hip while you strut your stuff down the street. But when your jeans are rebelling against the agreed upon hip positioning and doing everything they can to make you look like a jackass as you walk down the street trying to pull your pants up. Well, that is where I have to draw the line and take drastic measures. And by drastic measures I mean, buy a belt.
Luckily for me, this here BE was very close to where I was staying last week and offered up it's hold your pants up arms to me and set me up with a belt that is perfect for my bells. And at a mere $7 out the door, well, who can complain. Not I, which is why i went back the very next day and bought even more stuff from them. So while this store seems a bit on the small side, they definitely carry a good variety of thrifty options and I left happy and would return again.Listed in: San Francisco Shopping
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Review from Caroline J.
San Francisco, CA
11/29/2009
I love getting rewarded for cleaning out my closets....
Buffalo Exchange makes it easy to part with old clothes you've been hanging on to for too long. Their helpful staff will quickly appraise your clothing and give you 35% cash or 50% store credit for the selling price. Those old designer jeans? $10. Sky high stilettos you can't stand? $7. Christmas coat that still has the price tag? 15.
It may not be much, but it's something - and totally worth the "sanity space" you'll create in your closet. The shop in the mission a block off the 24th street BART stop - so convenient you'll have to find excuses not to go.
Stop being a pack rat - say some parting words to your weary wardrobe and collect cash for your clothes. You'll have more money for Christmas gifts.... or that adorable designer top you just HAVE to buy on your way out of Buffalo Exchange :)Listed in: And the paycheck goes to....
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Review from Steph P.
Minneapolis, MN
6/15/2007
I heart Buffalo Exchange! It is one of the only thrift stores that reconciles my love of thrifting and my latent prissines. You forget that you are browsing and trying on clothes that were worn by someone else - someone who might have had more questionable hygeine than you. There's no massive allergic reaction to dust, dander, or any of that other stuff that makes my eyes go bezerk at some places (e.g., Goodwill, Thrift Town, Out of the Closet). For some reason, the clothes seem so fresh...do they launder them?
While the prices of the items at Buffalo Exchange are on the higher side for thrifting (average price for a top $9, a dress $20), the selection is infinitely more up-to-date and stylish than at the aforementioned allergy-ridden stores. This is also the most well-organized shops I've been to...they sort the different articles of clothing BY SIZE!!! None of that sort-by-color insanity! Even the great selection of shoes is sorted by size. There's also a bunch of accessories like sunglasses, hats, bags/purses, belts, and more. Oh, I can't forget to mention how the dressing rooms actually resemble those of normal boutiques and as opposed to a garage.
What really is the cherry on top is that the people who work here are actually nice! I'm so used to the more-hip-than-thou attitude from thrift stores in NYC (though it's always true). Maybe the hipsters are just nicer in general in SF? Anyway, at Buffalo Exchange, I've always found the employees to be super friendly and helpful...even when I ask stupid questions like what music is playing.
Hearts are flying all around!
Selection = 5 stars
Value = 4 stars
Service = 5 stars
Sneeze Factor = 5 starsListed in: Hey, it's better than dumpster…
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Review from melinda h.
Richmond, CA
7/31/2011
I have been to this Buffalo Exchange as a shopper a couple times now (i have never tried to consign here). While I have not found anything from this store that I has worked for me personally, I do see a lot of quality brands at this store. They have a huge selection of designer jeans and racks of shoes. I almost bought a pair of fuschia marc jacobs pumps but they were a tad too sparkly for daywear and just outside of my budget at $35. I really like this store and will continue to come back.
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Review from Kate K.
Chicago, IL
4/3/2008
I had great success in finding an appropriate shirt for an after-work drinks date... A shirt which alludes to boobies*, yet doesn't flaunt them for the entire world to see... A shirt which is made of fabric which is kind of tactile & see through, yet not quite see through enough that the guys in the office will stare all day... A shirt which says "touch me, feel me - but, only after I've had a couple of cocktails first b/c I'm a serious bizzness gal..." A shirt which still says "I make questionable decisions and I like it like that..." A shirt which I won't get disapproving stares from the other women in my office for wearing during the daylight hours... A shirt that won't wrinkle when crumpled up in a heap on someone's bedroom floor... A shirt that is wearable two days in a row...
WAIT! Did I say that in my outside voice?
What I meant: a reasonably priced and very nice Weston Wear top which is appropriate for day into evening.
*This review better get HELLA U/F/C's for having the word "boobies" in it... -
Review from Maria D.
6/24/2005
So close to my house! I love coming here on my way home from work. While I don't fit into 90 percent of what they sell here, I have found some really cute accesorries, which are very important to me, because as a fat girl, accesories are the great equalizer between us and the skinny girls.
I don't live by this place anymore. But, it is still much better than the one on Haight, which is so picked over you may as well just go straight to Old Navy & Forever 21, which is where they get all their clothes anyway. This BE is where I got my most wonderful white vintage clutch for 7 dollars and the gold necklace with lots and lots of stars, which pretty much no one likes but me. I miss this BE. -
Review from Christy L.
San Francisco, CA
5/30/2009
This place may quickly turn into my new obsession. I scored a Michael Stars cashmere tunic for $18 that is still selling on the Revolve Clothing website for $268. I had to pry myself away before I started hoarding up tons of other items I don't need just because it was all so cheap. The entire time I was there, a steady stream of people were selling bags of clothes faster than the employees could stock them. (One girl literally dragged in 3 freaking huge garbage bags full of clothes.) Unfortunately, that makes this one of those "hit or miss" places... If you happen to be there when they're putting out someone's premiere designer throwaways, you might score big time. Otherwise, not so much.
The racks were pretty easy to sort through because they have it organized by type of clothing and by size. They also have pretty decent fitting rooms for a thrift/ consignment store. And most importantly, it doesn't smell like old lady and moth balls. So I'd say give Buffalo Exchange a try... You might find an amazing treasure in there! -
Review from Luke L.
Sebastopol, CA
Updated - 7/18/2011
Amazing as always. I'm a very "social buyer" in the sense that I ask opinions on every article of clothing I buy in order to make sure I'm making a worthwhile purchase.
I don't typically shop alone, but I went in here recently alone and the staff was ridiculously attentive. They were more honest with their critiques than my friends can be, playful, helpful, and willing to discount an article of clothing with a defect to make sure the price was fair.
I LOVE Valencia Buffalo exchange. More of my wardrobe than not is now from there, and my wallet thanks you!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/4/2010
I went to the Valencia Buffalo Exchange today for the first time today and it was the best thrifting… Read more »
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Review from Nicolle M.
San Francisco, CA
10/25/2009
I haven't been to the BE on Haight in years...but from what I can remember it was pretty awesome. And this location is even awesome-er.
Great selection of name brand clothing and shoes. I'm on a sort of "not buying new clothing" kick so I wasn't doing any serious shopping, but I spotted some super cute pale mint peep-toe pumps and figured I'd give them a try. They were bonkers cute and for only 18$ for Steven Maddens (which did not even look like they were ever worn), I had to make an exception to my non-shopping plan.
They also have a large stock of used Halloween costumes right now. None of the costumes were super inexpensive, but you'll definitely save a good 15-20$ at least...and for something you're only going to wear ONCE, why not get it for as cheap as possible? -
Review from Kathleen N.
San Francisco, CA
4/26/2007
The Buffalo Exchange in the Mission is the best BE in the city. The one on Haight is so picked over and hard to move around in. This BE is rarely crowded and the staff always seems really friendly. I have never left this place without finding at least one thing I couldn't live without.
Buffalo Exchange helps me to afford my champagne tastes on a beer budget. -
Review from George A.
1/9/2010
I'm gonna admit, a lot of this review is not necessarily about this particular Buffalo Exchange location, but about the place in general. I was at this store recently though so that's why I'm reviewing it.
Anyways, I don't really get this place. I've always lived near a Buffalo Exchange and to be honest I've always thought of it as more of a costume shop, but never a place to buy "regular clothes." I've always just donated used clothes of mine to St. Vincent De Paul when I lived in AZ, but after living in SF for nearly 16 months and probably not getting rid of one article of clothing during this time I decided to do a thorough closet cleaning and discovered I had what I thought was some pretty nice shit that I hardly ever worn, and I figured why not try and get some cash for it at Buffalo Exchange.
Of the four shopping bags of stuff that I gathered there was only one that I was even gonna attempt to sell things out of, and the other three I was just giving to them as a straight donation (I don't know where exactly Buffalo Exchange donates the stuff they don't sell, but I really didn't care). From what I understand Buffalo Exchange is pretty strict about what they take, and of the two pairs of American Eagle jeans, two Ralph Lauren polo shirts, two buttoned down Mark Echo shirts, and Mark Echo track suit I had, they took zilch. I just gave all of it to them as a donation. The guy who was checking my stuff out was kind of silent and when he was examining the clothes, and I don't really know what he was looking for, but he wasn't an asshole or anything.
As far as the store itself, there's some okay stuff if you're willing to dig (although after seeing some of the faded, out of date stuff that they were selling I was a little confused as to why they didn't want any my stuff). It's a little hipsterish, which isn't really my thing (maybe that's why they didn't what my crap?), but like I said there is some decent finds.
I wouldn't make a special trip to this place to shop, but if I was in the area I might stop in again. Hipsters, this is your heaven... -
Review from Mark G.
Los Angeles, CA
6/4/2007
The Scene: Buffalo Exchange in Berkeley. My wife and I go shopping with some friends and decide to buy something. We briefly waited at the counter.
Girl Behind Counter (#1): "I can ring you up here."
We step up.
GBTC (#1) [to WBTC #2]: "Blah, blah, blah. Ha ha. Blah blah."
*beep*
GBTC (#2): "Blah, blah, blah. Ha ha. Blah blah."
*beep*
GBTC (#1): "Blah, blah, blah. Ha ha. Blah blah. Oh, look it's (insert name of hipster here)! Blah blah blah!"
*beep*
Visiting Hipster: "Blah blah blah blah blah blah"
GBTC (#2): "Ha ha ha. Blah blah blah."
GBTC (#1): "Ha ha ha ha." (turns to us) "That'll be $39.50."
We pay and leave. Flash forward to later in the evening when we get back to San Francisco. I'm trying on my new pair of shorts.
Me: "Dammit. They left the security tag on. Oh well, I'll just go to the Buffalo Exchange on Valencia. It's nearby."
The next day, my wife is putting on the new dress she bought.
Her: "Dammit! They left the security tag on mine, too."
Alrighty then. I walk the few blocks to the Mission Buffalo Exchange. I walk through the door and approach the counter.
GBTC (#3) "Can I help you?"
Me: "Can you do me a favor? I went to the Buffalo Exchange in Berkeley the other day and bought some things. They forgot to take the security tag off. I was wondering if you could take it off for me."
GBTC (#3): "Sure it happens some times."
She goes to take them off, but then turns to GBTC (#4) who obviously held some sort of managerial position.
GBTC (#3): "It's all right, right?"
GBTC (#4): "Do you have your receipt?"
Me: "No, it's in my wife's wallet."
This was true. She went to work and forgot to give me the receipt.
Me: "But, you saw me walk in the door."
GBTC (#4) "Well, it's probably not okay. But, we're going to do it for you any way. You should have gone back to Berkeley."
GBTC #3 took the tags off for me. I thanked her and I left. I have a sneaky suspicion that GBTC #3 thought that GBTC #4 was being an ass.
So, there you have it. That's my story.
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QUIZ
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Can you figure out what was wrong with that story? Choose from the following:
(A) The girl at the Berkeley Buffalo Exchange should have been paying attention to the customer. Her co-worker and friend should have known better as well. If she had been paying attention, then she would have removed the security tags.
(B) The girl at the Berkeley Buffalo Exchange should concentrate on her job.
(C) The manager at the Mission Buffalo Exchange is a twat and should be nicer to customers who have been inconvenienced by employees of the company said manager works at.
(D) I should stop shopping at Buffalo Exchange. The clothes are overpriced and they have no concept of fashion. Their workers are so into themselves that they don't care about helping anyone. They believe that they are working in the fashion business as opposed to working in an overpriced used clothing store.
(E) All of the above.
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ANSWER
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If you answered (E) to the above quiz, then you are correct. Congratulations.
