Boomerangs

03/06/08

Good stuff, but not quite worth the hassle if you're not in the area

by MandizzleSue at Citysearch

I had heard of this place through friends and an internet search, and since I've yet to find a thrift store with convenient prices that match the selection in Boston, I decided to bring some clothing donations to Boomerang's and maybe look around a bit, myself.

After getting lost on the way to the store (try to take a bus to the location or a bus from the T stop, as it's a very, VERY long walk from the nearest T station), I finally made it to Boomerang's. The set up of the exterior of the store and the organization within were excellent. It looks small on the outside, but it's actually a pretty sizeable thrift store - clothes, accessories, and things such as CD's, VHS tapes, and other odd knick-knacks are at the front, with furniture and an awesome book selection at the back.

Though pretty organized, if you take a long time to look around, there are some special oddities mixed among everything (there are purses and bags throughout the store, so if that's your "white whale" thrift item of choice, be thorough about your hunt. I found an old soft-leather briefcase lined with silk, and though only $8, I really didn't need it.) In the end, I got a Calvin Klein jacket for $4, a genuine Peace Corps messenger bag for $2, and a really cool T-shirt left behind at the store by a Trinity College student circa 2003 for $2.

I am happy with my purchases, and the staff is friendly, but they seemed a little distracted that night. To be fair, it was Thursday, which is the night thay they have extended hours, but when I dropped off my donations, they were pretty non-chalant about it. Also, getting lost and having to take so much time out of my day to do this was not so pleasant, but all in all, this is a great find if you're in the immediate area of Jamaica Plain.

PS - did I mention that the proceeds from the purchases go to the AIDS Action committee? Awesome :)

• Pros: Prices, Selection, Rare Surprises, Staff, Proceeds go to Charity
• Cons: Not a lot of parking, not as accessible to public transit as I would have liked