Local Guides World
Michelle Marie
1 reviews on 1 places
I’ve been a loyal fan of Crossroads Thrift Shop in the University District since 2004. Back then, their beautifully curated selection of vintage and designer finds made every visit a treasure hunt. As I transitioned from college into the tech world and could afford Nordstrom's and Neiman Marcus' couture, my love for Crossroads never waned. It’s why, as my husband and I prepare to move overseas, I chose to resell my cherished designer wardrobe here. I wanted someone else to experience the thrill I once had discovering like-new designer couture at this iconic shop.
Unfortunately, my recent visit was nothing short of disheartening. I brought in four meticulously organized boxes of luxury items: a never-worn Burberry rain jacket, purse, and boots, Dior and Louis Vuitton sunglasses, Coach and LV purses, Manolo Blahnik heels, and more. The courteous younger employees explained the process, which I appreciated. After an hour of waiting, they selected a few items, offering me $24 for pieces I didn’t expect them to choose while deeming my designer pieces “out of style.”
As someone with professional experience helping high-end brands optimize their online presence, I know the value of timeless fashion. What surprised me wasn’t just the lowball offer but the apparent lack of knowledge about luxury goods.
While waiting, I noticed a worrying trend—no shoppers seemed to be making legitimate purchases. Instead, the store was teeming with individuals visibly distressed or experiencing homelessness. Multiple people blatantly stuffed items into backpacks or under their clothes, unchecked. One woman left the store after selling clothing only to be seen moments later aiding a man pushing a stolen television in a wheelchair down the street.
The surrounding neighborhood, once a vibrant hub of eclectic dining and shopping, has sadly deteriorated. The streets were filled with the stench of urine, vomit, and decay, with homelessness visibly rampant. It felt like the vibrant, safe community I adored had completely vanished.
I want to emphasize that the staff was polite and kind, even in the face of these challenges. Their leniency toward vulnerable individuals is commendable in principle, but the store’s inability to maintain security or uphold a high standard for inventory is disheartening. I left feeling a deep sense of loss—not just for the shop but for the neighborhood I once loved.
To anyone considering a visit, I’d suggest caution. Crossroads isn’t the gem it once was, and the environment might leave you feeling more disheartened than inspired. I sincerely hope this store and the neighborhood can find their way back to being the incredible, vibrant spaces they used to be.
Unfortunately, my recent visit was nothing short of disheartening. I brought in four meticulously organized boxes of luxury items: a never-worn Burberry rain jacket, purse, and boots, Dior and Louis Vuitton sunglasses, Coach and LV purses, Manolo Blahnik heels, and more. The courteous younger employees explained the process, which I appreciated. After an hour of waiting, they selected a few items, offering me $24 for pieces I didn’t expect them to choose while deeming my designer pieces “out of style.”
As someone with professional experience helping high-end brands optimize their online presence, I know the value of timeless fashion. What surprised me wasn’t just the lowball offer but the apparent lack of knowledge about luxury goods.
While waiting, I noticed a worrying trend—no shoppers seemed to be making legitimate purchases. Instead, the store was teeming with individuals visibly distressed or experiencing homelessness. Multiple people blatantly stuffed items into backpacks or under their clothes, unchecked. One woman left the store after selling clothing only to be seen moments later aiding a man pushing a stolen television in a wheelchair down the street.
The surrounding neighborhood, once a vibrant hub of eclectic dining and shopping, has sadly deteriorated. The streets were filled with the stench of urine, vomit, and decay, with homelessness visibly rampant. It felt like the vibrant, safe community I adored had completely vanished.
I want to emphasize that the staff was polite and kind, even in the face of these challenges. Their leniency toward vulnerable individuals is commendable in principle, but the store’s inability to maintain security or uphold a high standard for inventory is disheartening. I left feeling a deep sense of loss—not just for the shop but for the neighborhood I once loved.
To anyone considering a visit, I’d suggest caution. Crossroads isn’t the gem it once was, and the environment might leave you feeling more disheartened than inspired. I sincerely hope this store and the neighborhood can find their way back to being the incredible, vibrant spaces they used to be.