I just moved on Sunday to an old beauty parlor converted into a house in Denver. The fashion inspiration is built into my walls.While unpacking my poorly packed clothes (I had a contest with friends who could cram the most into boxes in 30 seconds because I didn’t start packing until 8 p.m. the night before I had to be out), I noticed that I had very few items I had bought new. The overwhelming majority of my clothes were vintage or had been bought used. There are so many well organized and quality second-hand shops in Boulder, I can rarely think of an occasion that I need to buy something new. OK, underwear, bras, tights and earrings. But something about new dresses, jackets, necklaces and skirts seems so boring — and predictable. Sort of like moving into a tract home versus an old beauty parlor.

Consignment stores, such as Rags in Boulder (3129 28th St.), have noticed a happy boost in sales thanks to earth-friendly initiatives that have more shoppers recycling their clothes and buying used. Groups like The Compact made their 2008 resolution to borrow, barter or buy used. This helps lower production costs, the use of natural resources and consumerism in general, according to Rags’ spokeswoman.Want to feel even better about shopping?
* Rags donates all unused items to charity.
* The first Friday of every month the store gives 5 percent of sales to nonprofits, such as the homeless shelter, Dairy Center for the Arts or Emergency Family Assistance Association. 
Check out www.iloverags.com.