Goodwill's Glitter Sale has great finds for intrepid bargain hunters

If there's one must-attend shopping event for fashionable bargain hunters who love a little sparkle, it's the Goodwill Glitter Sale. Shoppers have been seen lining up as early as 2 a.m. for first dibs on designer and vintage formalwear when the doors open at 9 a.m. This year marks the 26^th anniversary of the sale, which happens on Saturday, Nov. 14 and Sunday, Nov. 15 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Goodwill's Dearborn location.

Throughout the year, Goodwill employees set aside choice pieces for this sale, which last year pulled in over $140,000 for Goodwill's free job training and educational programs around the Puget Sound. 

While the sale is famous for its spectacular showing of evening gowns and formalwear, this year the sale has been expanded to include trendy, contemporary pieces from the store's Fashion Forward department.

"This season more people than ever are looking for great deals. At this year's Glitter Sale, in addition to our fabulous selection of holiday eveningwear and accessories, we are also including pieces that will serve you well long after the holidays," explains Public Relations Director Betsy McFeely.

The sale's blog gives shoppers a sneak peak at what to expect at the sale, including Prada shoes, vintage jewelry and a wide-array of clothing including a devastating vintage white three-piece Mr. Blackwell ensemble made out of white satin and maribou (a fur-like embellishment made out of feathers).

Another special aspect of this year's sale is the release of several pieces from the organization's little known Vintage Fashion Collection. Over the years, Goodwill has developed a collection of antique clothing that archives the history of women's fashion from the mid-1800s to present. This year, they are selling off some of these precious pieces that include an authentic beaded flapper dress and a frilly 1950's prom dress.

Last year there were over 800 people waiting in line for the sale to begin, and with those kinds of number some strategy is in order. Keep in mind that there are no dressing rooms, so wear a leotard or swimsuit to try on clothes; don't wear warm clothing that you'll have to take off and carry around; make a beeline for the section that interests you most; and most of all, try your best not to get overwhelmed by all the treasures to be had.

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