Owner Donna Riopel operates this fabulous second-hand shopping gem with the purpose of providing great brand name items at a much lower cost than you would pay for new. Located close to the trendy Kensington Road area, it caters to the more fashion-conscious customer and is jammed full of clothes, shoes and jewelry. You can also bring in your old clothing accessories and buy new items with the credit. The store is situated just off Memorial Drive NorthWest and there is free meter parking in the alley to the rear on Sundays.

This shop has been serving Calgarians for close to 50 years and is now a city landmark. Even the rich and powerful drop by the last time singer/actor/diva Cher was in town she picked up a couple of military flight jackets. This is one of the most authentic military surplus stores in North America with a staff conversant in military memorabilia. Crown offers everything from waterproof matches to footwear and binoculars, and most items are very reasonably priced. Even if you don't buy anything, it makes for great browsing.

This particular clothing store, one block from the MacLeod Trail, began several years ago to assist women who were re-entering the workforce after leaving an abusive situation. Its motto remains the same today: To help those who, for whatever reason, are unable to help themselves.There are actually six of these stores in the city, and all accept donated items such as clothing, furniture and children's toys. There is a lot to choose from, and even though it takes some digging, don't let that wear you down. You will find some great treasures here!