A shopper called Stephanie discovered a designer gown worth more than $1,000 while rooting through bins at a Goodwill store in Saint Paul, Minnesota. She paid just $10 for the item, which she initially thought was a curtain or bedspread.
Unexpected find in the bins
Stephanie told Newsweek she was at Goodwill when she picked up the dress, along with other items, for $10. The gown, made by a brand called Fanciful Doll, is valued at $1,030 new.
On Instagram, she posted a video of the dress, writing: "You literally never know what the thrift gods will bestow upon you." The dark floral pattern initially made her think the item was a curtain. She wondered whether others had made the same assumption, which might explain why it ended up in the bins rather than on a hanger at a higher price.
A dress that fits like a dream
When Stephanie realised it was a dress, she thought it might be a Selkie due to the romantic style. Instead, she discovered a new brand. The gown fit her as though it had been custom-made.
The Ophelia Epic Romance Gown from Fanciful Doll is described as an "exquisite organza masterpiece, inspired by the tragic heroine of Shakespeare's immortal tale, flows with ruffled grace down to a sweeping, romantic train. Lush green hues and a dreamy floral print transport you to a verdant lake, where you'll feel like a true heroine of the stage."
Reaction to the bargain
In response to the viral post, one commenter said: "A fanciful doll dress at the Goodwill bins? Girl, I don't think you are ever going to top that in your life when it comes to thrifting, that is insane!" Another added: "Oh my god, I think I would wear it all day, every day, it's absolutely gorgeous."
Some people said they "couldn't" root through bins at a charity shop because it makes them want to "vomit," but Stephanie's find shows that doing so can lead to serious bargains.
