Green Daily

These days even gently used regular clothes are pretty cool. On the west coast -- and in Chicago! -- there is a chain of cooler-than-consignment shops called Crossroads Trading Company where hipsters buy and sell current fashions. And every city across the country has a Goodwill. Take another look, you might be surprised at the bargains you can find!

Another great place to reuse is cars. While everyone would love to buy the newest hybrid, the economic reality is that a well-cared for used car can be an excellent financial and eco-friendly choice. Just remember to follow the clean air/gas saving tips like making sure your tires are properly inflated, and changing your air filters regularly.

Are you a designer who feels inspired by the idea of reusing things? And maybe you want/need a car? Then check out the "Threadless Loves Pre-Loved" contest.

The t-shirt company is known for its ongoing open call for designs, with winners picked by the Threadless community. Between now and July 15th they're asking for t-shirt design submissions based on the concept of "pre-loved" -- it could be baby clothes you shared with your sister, a beautiful ring from your elderly aunt, or a previously-owned car, like the "pre-loved" Volkswagon that the winner will receive, in addition to a $500 Threadless gift certificate, plus $2,000 in cash.

It just goes to show you, the shrewd financial choice of reusing things in everyday life can also be the shrewd environmental choice. And watch out -- bargain hunting gets addictive. It starts with clothes and cars, but before you know it, you'll be trolling craigslist for used washer dryer sets and picking up coffee tables from street corners on "big trash" night!