Released: October 29, 2007

Goodwill: Cheap can also be chic

Source: Ylan Q. Mui, Washington Post (Free Registration)

Like other fashion bloggers, Em Hall dispenses advice on matters such as the appropriate cut for ankle boots, pairing floral patterns with polka dots and how to wear a three-piece suit. The twist? Many of her sartorial suggestions and inspiration come from Goodwill.

The Washington chapter of the international nonprofit organization has launched a campaign to recast itself as a source of vintage and high-end fashion in an attempt to expand its customer base to young, professional women. It has hired Hall to blog about stylish merchandise found in its stores and uploaded a video of its annual fashion show to YouTube. Its new eBay store has featured a fur stole and beaded evening gown by Oleg Cassini, who designed clothes for Jacqueline Kennedy.

“Most people think of Goodwill as a dirty old thrift store, and we’re trying to change that perception,” said Brendan Hurley, vice president of marketing and communication for Goodwill of Greater Washington.

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