As summer winds down and it's time to amp up your wardrobe, you find yourself searching for coupons and stores with the best deals. You can't help but drool over the newest trends of the season just to reveal that the price tag is way out of your budget.

Your result after a long day of shopping is a pair of overpriced jeans and a heartbroken feeling about leaving that super cute blouse on the rack at your favorite department store.

What will your friends say when they see you wearing last year's combat boots? What if there were a way to buy new without spending too much? It sounds too good to be true, but wait, here's the secret: consignment shops.

Here's a list of seven ways consignment shops will become your new bestie this back-to-school.

1. Low prices.

Name brands for low prices, how could it get better from here?

2. Unique pieces.

Chances are when you're buying consignment, your friends aren't going to be wearing the same thing because there's one of everything in the store.

3. Support local businesses.

It is good to support local places as you're improving the in-town economy and buying from familiar faces.

4. Sell clothes you don't wear anymore

When you finally decide to clean out your closet of the clothes you don't wear anymore, take them to the store to sell back for a percent of the price and receive a store credit!

5. Always new selections

You can head back to the same consignment shop every few weeks and be sure to find a whole new selection to choose from.

6. Make old new again

Spice up a plain dress with a new belt and a few pieces of statement jewelry.

7. Testing a trend

You may not be sure if a certain trend is in your comfort zone, but still want to test it out. Purchase a for a low price at your consignment shop and you won't have to worry about wasting your money on something you don't wear.