Grand Opening of Value Village's Third Coquitlam Store! Ain't it grand!!!

Written by Colleen Tsoukalas (Treasure Seeker Colleen)

Thanks to Kathy, Store Manager and staff for a warm welcome to the huge, well organized, well priced treasure trove at 1301 United Boulevard, Coquitlam.  This is truly a place where good deeds are done (they were helping a visually impaired woman buy clothes) and where great deals can be found, all the time.  It is such a treat to shop at V.V. because there is always someone to talk with and always a treasure to be found.  You can be a club member, get a senior's discount on Tuesdays, get stamps for your donations, and even have chances to win shopping sprees.  This year, Value Village put on two runway shows for Vancouver Eco Fashion Week and the audience was wowed.  I know because I was there.  What a terrific example of the 3 R's!



My challenge this visit was to focus on building a summer wardrobe for $100.  To me, a wardrobe has to be both casual and formal, for work and play.  I look for shoes and accessories as well as color, style, labels and uniqueness in the overall design.  Come with me, through the huge double doors of this warehouse location and see how I got ready for the sun that has finally arrived in Vancouver.  Just outside, is a gigantic parking lot but if you rode your bike to this busy location, you'll find that V.V. even has a special bike rack just for you.

Making my way to the clothing racks, I couldn't help but think about what a fabulous summer vintage themed party you could organize.  A gorgeous collection of fancy bone china cups, plates, and platters, would make any lunch or dinner table so special. Ice buckets, flasks, punch bowls, ice cube trays and even the tongs and trays - everything except the bubbly, is available for that art deco coctail hour.   

The ball gowns, too!  Crinolines and beadwork, exotic colors, gloves and hats - all one of a kind! 

Imagine these Indonesian Puppets (with a certificate of authenticity) as your centerpiece or even as the entertainment.  What a grand performance!

Now, back to the clothes!  I found two pairs of shorts, by H and M, one dressy and one casual. I love these soft, grey, cuffed shorts with pockets. The pink lace shorts are lined and have a cord tie with skulls on each end.  The sleeveless, high waist dress, is grey with an embossed pattern and black jet jewel design above the waist.  It's by Bizz Princess.  The two toned, black and cream shoes (with price tag still attached) are by Carvela and are leather, made in Italy.  Comfortable, durable and adorable.

The rose colored, flower detailed, sun dress has straps, elasticized top and mid length skirt that can be worn as a top or as a dress.  I paired it with the grey shorts, but it would also go nicely with the black capris (Dish) or the long skinny stretch jeans, in the same shade, that I bought but forgot to photograph.



This little dress is just stunning.  It is grey and black and features a stand up collar, cap sleeves, pockets and is an A-line shape.  It has 3 large buttons down the front and is a soft, jersey, non iron material.  Next to it is a navy and white pin striped, belted, halter neck blouse or light jacket, with gold hook closures.  The black dress, by purple rain, is actually black on the bottom and patterned in black, white and grey on the top.

The dark grey, poly cotton, scoop necked, sleeveless blouse, is gathered at the waist with a flower.  Very dressy and polished.  The flowered sun dress next to it has a crocheted, black back and is softly draped but fitted at the waist.



Last but not least is your classic, little black dress by Mexx that is slightly draped but V's at the waist and is form fitting rather than bulky.  It has belt loops so your favorite silver or gold or even a touch of primary color would look amazing.

For jewelry, I chose a Guess charm bracelet in silver and black, earrings with color and pattern to match everything and a Greek Key design bracelet.



In summary, my wardrobe or my "dream closet" for summer includes:
l black capri pants
l skinny pants (rose)
2 shorts (grey and pink)
4 dresses - work and more formal
3 sundresses
1 pair of shoes (new)
1 blouse (light jacket)
2 bracelets

For $100 (no discounts this time) I found a lot in a short time.  I also got lots of smiles, friendly service and chances to win more shopping sprees.  Thanks Kathy and staff and once, again, Value Village, my favorite boutique.