My girlfriend and I decided to sell some clothes at Buffalo exchange in Costa Mesa, California off of Bristol Street. We called ahead of time to confirm that they were purchasing and to ask what items they were currently looking for based on the current season. Immediately I had a good feeling about them, the employee who took my call was happy to answer all of my questions and give me a detailed description of what they were looking for, which really helped me narrow down what to bring. Once we arrived we were greeted by the staff. The whole selling process was so simple. They were patient while we went through every item (I had a lot) and they didn't mind me explaining the significance of each individual item. They offer 2 options for payment: * Cash Option: 25% of the items in store resale value. (ex. If they sell a t shirt for $20 you will get $5 cash) * In-Store Credit Option: 50% of the items in store value. (Ex. If they sell a t shirt for $20 you will get $10 in-store credit) I highly recommend checking them out whether you want to clean out your closet or shop for a new wardrobe. They have a very nice selection of all the current styles for both men and women! PRO TIP FOR SELLERS * Visit their website before hand and select the location you are visiting to view current wait times and join the waitlist. read more

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Review is NOT based on how much I was paid for selling my clothes lol I usually like this location a lot, but the service from an employee here today was really disappointing. The manager was nice, but a young guy there (I think named Jared?) who primarily helped me had a horrible demeanor. Was putting on the whole "too cool to be here" attitude, was very short with me when talking during my selling period, and rudely passed things back to me during the selling process. Sometimes he wouldn't even speak; he'd just hand things back to me while looking down or up in the air It's a bummer because the staff here is usually all pretty friendly, but this guy ruined the vibe and idk if I'll sell here again. I don't mind if the majority of my stuff doesn't get bought by thrifts like this, but I'd hope the staff would at least talk to me like I'm not a waste of space read more

A nice store for lightly used items. Lots of variety packed in - and I mean really packed. I think they need a bigger area. (Which is a compliment). Friendly service. A little on the higher priced end. Fitting rooms are available. Bring your own bag. The also buy your gently used items too. I think better signage may help. read more

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Has anyone else heard of all the incredible work being done with wacky earrings here lately? There seems to be no limit to the heights of wackiness such earrings might ascend to at the Buffalo Exchange. Will the mushrooms dangle loosely on cheese colored links from a pepperoni pizza slice bangle earring? Will puffy frog head stick on earrings feature googily eyes? Of course they will. I browsed the earrings here myself. I found a pair of watermelon slice earrings. One detail made them stand out: they were shaped to look like some prankster had taken a bite out of them. How offbeat & mischievous in nature must that designer be? I wonder why whoever bit these jewelry melons stopped. Were they only interested in a snack? Who knows. In any case, I bought the earrings from the Buffalo staff. No employee called me "Boss" or "Chief" or any of that precious, faux polite crap. Then I gifted the earrings to my GF who was absolutely thrilled because we all know that all it takes to make a woman forget the avalanche of nonsense that every woman deals with on a daily basis is a mildly quirky pair of earrings. read more

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Located at The Lab, the location is great, with plenty of parking. The store has a good selection of clothes, but don't expect thrift store pricing. HOWEVER, the two shirts I bought were unexpectedly 75% off, so they felt practically free when I heard the total. If you want a bag, you have to buy them for $2.50 (reusable). The guy at the front probably isn't who you want to be the face of your company (no greeting, little eye-contact), but it is what it is. If you're hunting for a deal, unless you're lucky enough to be there during a sale, you won't find it here. read more

I went today, Thursday 10/15 around noon and was welcomed by Jordan, who let me know about the 50% off red tag sale. I browsed the sunglasses and asked David for his opinion. He was so kind and helpful, giving me styling advice for each pair to help me find the perfect ones. Jordan was reorganizing the purses when I popped back over to there. She went out of her way to ask me what I was looking for and pulled out so many awesome options for me to try. The product selection was excellent, and the store was clean and well maintained! Though the absolute star for my experience was the costumer service. The cashiers were so sweet, even with a small line for people selling. Each of the associates had positive energy, product knowledge, and great senses of style. This is hands down the best retail experience I've had in some time. Thank you Buffalo at The LAB - your staff and store is amazing. read more

Would like to recommend sellers to WATCH when they go through belongings (if you have several pieces that you might lose track of in the moment) cause they'll hide clothes in the single pile by the registers. (The pile has multiple seller items conjoined into one) they did not give the curtesy to show what they tagged to bring into store inventory, instead the associate vaguely showed the top few and I later realized she didn't show me all they took. Would not recommend if you have true vintage, Y2K, retro, rare/unique items cause they will lowball and have a sketchy vibe. Lesson learned! I'll definitely be taking my business elsewhere specifically due to the lack of care for trust and honestly read more

No trip to The LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa for a fun selection of small business shops, would be complete without visiting the Buffalo Exchange! This is the place to find really cool vintage lightly used items, clothing, and accessories. I really had my heart set on these doc Martens fit perfectly as well. Regretfully they were $80. Sometimes pricing lately has been a little higher than usual in my humble opinion. So they were out of my budget. There used to be a time where one could negotiate the prices, but I think that was like 20 years ago here! I miss the policy where they gave you a wooden token, if you chose not to bag your item, and you get your choice of which charity/donations box you'd like to put the five cents Worth wooden coin into. For not purchasing or using a bag. I felt like I was recycling and giving donations at the same time! Once again, the atmosphere was eclectic, fun vibe. Sales people have always been professional, I just wish that I saw the regular consistent employees more. Perhaps I just go out too many various times here. I really regret not giving this five stars but due to the price of the shoes mainly, My review went to four stars. read more

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I haven't been to Buffalo Exchange in many moons! Not a lot has changed...I think the dressing room curtains are still the same! It has a fun, funky vibe and there's a LOT to sort through. As someone who is easily overwhelmed, it may be a little too much...there's not a lot of room between racks and it can get really crowded. They do have a large selection, but some of the price points may be a bit high. I would like to see a bigger consignment/designer section - that I'm usually ok to spend a little more on. I love how they have options to give to charity and I know they have a cool Earth Day event coming up too! read more

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You wasted my time you guys need to figure out i better system about creating a waitlist of people wanting to sell and checking people in I got a text message that it was my turn to come and sell supposedly you guys were calling my name the only person able to help was attending someone selling a multitude of suit cases and bins full of clothes I stood in line for over 30 minutes waiting to be helped when it was my "turn" read more

I give this store all my flowers. Every time I go shopping here I always find the best pieces. I'm talking every time single time. And, it's in the cutest lil urbanized mall with great atmosphere. Plus, the workers here are absolutely the sweetest people alive!! Talk about good customer service. Huge shoutout to Madie, Roland, and Melina for making my night. Thank you so so much Madie!! Yall are my queens. read more

Kiki is the best! Always helpful, patient, knowledgeable, and professional. Would recommend her buying anything you sell. She's always great! read more

Such a cute and vibrant store! I have visited a few different Buffalo exchange Locations and the selection is always pretty good (hence why I keep coming back) this was my first time here and it did not disappoint I loved looking through the racks of hidden gems the store was a little crowded because it was a holiday but I got some cool finds. Prices are super reasonable because most things are im great condition one of the piece I got had tags. The service was also really good the cashier was the sweetest thing she had great conversation and I loved her style. It felt like a welcoming environment and I had a great time :) read more

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I am SUCH a fan of Buffalo Exchange and have been for decades now. I am pleasantly surprised that there is this location just a little over a mile away from my home. I came here for the first time w my husband, just a week before weekend 2 of Coachella 2025. We were helped by two very nice and more than willing to help associates, SHOUT OUT to Sterling and Madison!!! I ended up buying one of the 3 outfits that they chose for me, which I actually got complimented on and even stopped for pictures with. I WILL, be coming back to shop here and making this my store for really great finds and at very reasonable prices. Until I come back for more, here was my finally look for day one of weekend 2. read more

Buffalo Exchange - Pants, $8. Sequins vest, $14. Experience and compliments rec'vd while wearing this handpicked outfit by Buffalo Exchange??!? PRICELESS!! - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

First time selling clothes at a thrift store. Waited in line for about 40 minutes before they could look at the clothes. I came in with 4 bags that were overflowing and they only bought one item. Staff were friendly so the experience was pleasant overall. I'm just genuinely curious to know their process in choosing products to buy. Dont get me wrong, I did have some shein items sprinkled in there. However, I think they saw shein and then stopped looking as thoroughly. I was shocked bc the only item they selected was a $5 dress from goodwill from an unknown brand with a rip on the bottom. Meanwhile I had some clothes worn only once or twice from pretty trendy brands such as white fox boutique, ben davis, adika, princess polly, etc. I wasn't really expecting much, maybe walk away with $10 but I only made $3.50 from 4 huge bags of clothes. Tips for sellers -Come early b/c it's a long line (even on weekdays) -Wear a hat or uv umbrella. U will be waiting in the hot sun for a while. -Don't have high expectations on selling. They are pretty strict on selecting pieces read more

Buffalo Exchange - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Found some great business casual sneakers and some beautiful Oxfords here as well a Basquiat hoodies. They have many options as well as a fitting room. Staff is helpful and friendly. read more

Horrible customer service. I would strongly recommend taking your business elsewhere if you're looking to sell clothes. I felt very disrespected as a customer throughout the entire experience, and it was such a waste of time. Upon coming in, I was ignored at the register and told to join a virtual queue just to get a quote, and forced to wait 1+ hour just to have an employee leaf through my items in 20 seconds and tell me that they'll "pass" on all of my clothes (which were all purchased fairly recently from reputable brands with no outdated styles) without any further elaboration. They also require so much personal information just to give you a quote (or in my case, refuse to sell your clothes). They scan your drivers license and ask for email and phone number which is completely unnecessary. I'd recommend selling to Crossroads or Plato's Closet nearby or donating to Goodwill. Parking is also a nightmare. read more

Do not sell your clothes here lol. You will be waiting in a very long line, only to be met with an undertrained buyer after a hour. This place has potential. It's in a cute location and they have some rare good finds ,, but overall this place is kinda train wreck. Buyers don't receive proper training. You'll walk in with bags full of great condition quality clothes that are timeless, unique or "trending" only to be looked at very quickly and tossed back in your bag. Their selection is a joke. I've encountered many dirty and stained items. Clothing that have had major rips and holes in it. Or pieces that are so outdated and worn that it genuinely makes you question what their buying standards even are. It feels inconsistent and random -- like there's no real system or eye for quality behind the counter. I understand resale is subjective, but when you're rejecting clean, well-kept, on-trend items while racks are filled with stained tees and stretched-out fast fashion, it doesn't add up. It just feels careless. This place could honestly be great with better training and more consistent standards. Right now, though, it's frustrating as both a seller and a shopper. read more

Waited a little over 2 hours for them to review what I want to sell. Yes it does pay more than across the street at 2nd Street. The difference is that you need to stand and wait around otherwise you might lose your spot in line. When I go to 2nd Street, I am able to drop off my bags and they give me a call when my quote is ready. What is the point of making people wait around for two hours? I understand being shortstaffed, but I also think that they need to change their process altogether. People should be able to drop off their stuff. Especially if each person takes forever. I was only seventh in line when I joined the waitlist. That means it took them two hours to get through six people. read more

There is always something great you can find if you Dig, but be careful if I'm being honest some stuff is a scam... like why would you re sale a worn out white pro club for one dollar less than a brand new one... just a lot of goffy stuff like that. It's like they think oh we are the buffalo exchange so we can sell it for $3 even tho. That's what it's worth. But non the less unlike a thrift Store bacilli exchange has much better finds and generally cleaner.... But you will spend like $60 real quick. The hidden Gem in the shop are the glasses ... really really unique selection of glasses for $10 and under. read more

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This is where I get most of my vintage tees. I just wish they were pet friendly like their competitors across the street. (2nd Street) They wouldn't let me in, when I'm just carrying a small, 10 pound Poodle that's super friendly. read more

I cannot say how well my selling experience went. The store manager and buying associate were very kind and answered all of my questions as a first time seller. I came in with a ton of stuff and they went through it quickly and gave me feedback. The opposite experience I had at Crossroads in Costa Mesa and Plato's Closet. I will NEVER sell to those stores. Thank you for making the experience pleasant and not painful. I appreciate and acknowledge excellent service! read more

Huge shoutout to MADDEN?! (I hope that's how it's spelled) she was the nicest sales/manager and she ran that store so so well (being short staffed, on a Saturday)!! I brought in 3 bags, made 115$, BE gives more money and takes more things than Plato's. The selection of clothing/shoes/accessories are 10/10. Their buyers know the market and what is trending. read more

Period stains THEY WERE SELLING PANTS WITH A LARGE PERIOD STAIN ON THEM. They don't look at quality, any brand from Forever 21 to Free People is accepted, but they very much do not take more than a half second glance at items. Overpriced for VERY used clothing, obviously. My boyfriend's Nike's that were worn 3 times had too much wear on them. We had plenty of lightly used, new, and well cared for items they couldn't take until a month or two from now(?) but they were absolutely ready to "donate" for us. I don't trust that. I hope this location doesn't represent the whole "brand." Do better read more

MADIN- was such a doll and stayed overtime just to make sure I was able to sell all the pieces I had brought in. she was very patient and helpful. The CM location has always been a staple- I'd recommend to anyone. read more

I read all the reviews and was quite hesitant to drive 40 miles to check out the goods. Customer service was awesome. Extremely welcoming and helpful. The selection of shoes, purses, pants, hoodies, costume jewelry and quirky goods was the best. The value was worth it because the dozen items we purchased were in almost new condition, averaging $12-$30. We will be back! read more

Easy place to sell - bit of wait pay is ehh but it's gone out of me life recycled upcycledbgot rid of moved on

Need to unload some extra clothes? Give them a try looking for something different fashion wise give them a try. I hadn't been in a long while but had some clothing that was too nice to just donate. So I thought I'd give them a try again. Was satisfied with the outcome read more

Great consignment store located at the LAB, you never know what you'll find here! Employees were super nice and friendly. They have a great selection of vintage and designer items at great prices. Great shopping option for the area! read more

Buffalo Exchange - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I'm not a thrifting expert at all. I came here after a friend recommended it to me after I did a closet cleanup and I had a bunch of old clothes I wanted to try and sell or recycle instead of putting in the trash. They didn't really take a lot of stuff but I did sell some items and used the credit towards a denim jacket I liked. read more

If you're not bringing in trendy, hipster-style or Y2K vintage pieces, don't even bother. Buffalo Exchange seems to only cater to a very specific aesthetic, and anything outside of that narrow range is instantly dismissed. I brought in a variety of quality, gently used clothes that didn't fit their ultra-specific vibe, and it was clear they had no interest in even considering them. The buying process felt incredibly rushed and disorganized. The staff seemed overwhelmed and didn't appear to handle pressure well--my buy was looked through in under a minute, and it honestly felt like they barely gave it a glance. No explanation, no courtesy--just a quick "no" and on to the next. It felt dismissive and unprofessional. I won't be returning. If you don't fit their ultra-curated definition of "cool," don't expect your items to get a fair shot. read more

Found this place after I went to Plato's Closet up the road with four tote bags, and they told me they only accept one bag per day, which obviously isn't realistic. I called ahead to make sure buffalo would take my four tote bags. When I walked in all the employees were super kind and helpful. The female manager was also super sweet! The line is digital and easy once you get in the queue you can just hang out and enjoy the other shops (come with a friend if you can so they can help watch your stuff). The inventory inside the store is bomb. Their buyers pick on trend pieces but also classics, and hard to find originals. The store is a little cramped, which is probably why they're a little more picky with buying so be mindful when bringing in your pieces. I definitely found my new favorite thrift / consignment store =) read more

I'm no stranger to buffalo as a seller nor as a shopper. Even though this store might seem small it's packed with amazing finds. Selling, they really have an eye for special pieces. Thankful I really shorted through my pile to bring only what I think they are looking for and luckily I can make quick cash with my clothes I'm ready to rotate! Customer service is great and friendly. Clean and well organized store read more

Went in to sell some stuff today hoping to to make some extra cash ended up wasting time and getting nothing back. They got a new system to wait no one said anything line was long and if it wasn't for another seller letting me know about the QR code to line I would've been skipped. And if that wasn't enough they have no consideration for ppl waiting letting customers go in with friends or family with twice the amount of clothing as the ppl in line. After taking and helping the two ladies with 10+ bags I was rushed through and my items weren't even properly looked. This new manger kid was terrible I missed the other ladies who worked there and the diversity . Now it's just white girls who dictate what they want save your time and go to another area that respects their customers equally. read more

I used to love selling here back before they hired a bunch of people who are unfamiliar with brands. I had my buyer lean over to their coworker asking "what is allsaints?". Please familiarize your staff with brands if their job is to buy for the store. read more

I sold with them a couple of times. Great way to get ride of unwanted stuff. They give more with trade in but I couldn't find anything unfortunately. read more

This is honestly the worst Buffalo exchange I've been to. I brought 4 bags of clothes with a mix of name brand modern items, vintage, accessories, & shoes. Out of everything, only 3 items were selected & I was offered bottom dollar. I didn't mind the cost as I was just looking get rid of things, but with how quickly the items were sorted through & how little was taken, it makes me wonder if everything was thoroughly sorted & what their decision process looks like. The men's section has diversely great selection, but the women's section is a terrible cluster of fast fashion & weird patterned, funky items the average person wouldn't wear. I rarely find anything at this location -- Fullerton has a way better selection. I used to be able to go to Buffalo Exchange to trade a bunch of clothes & find cool vintage. Not what it used to be. read more

Great experience here. Associate doing buys was friendly efficient and polite. The process was seamless and quick. Alot of amazing items here to choose from, esp menswear. The prices were on point. I took the cash but I will be back! read more

I'm here to say that I had an amazing experience here because Kayla rocks! Kayla used the outfit I had tried on, which didn't fit right, for inspiration and took the time to ask me what I was looking for and some details about the event. She actually went and shopped the store for me and put together some outfits I'd never have imagined; they were so cute and a whole new level of fashion I've never ventured into. I'm still thinking about the pieces I put back on the rack! Ahh! Thank you! (Minus one star for the lack of plus-size options in the store). read more

WORST thrift store I've ever been to! I enter the store at 2pm today 03/182024 hoping to sell. First off, it is completely unorganized. I I stood off to the side while customers were buying due to the there not being enough space to form a line. As a hispanic individual, I've experienced my share of discrimination and racism towards me due to my darker complexion. However, Not even 2 minutes in I get a wave of stares by the employees and immediately feel uncomfortable. I was told by a female cashier(Dark brown hair, bangs and nose ring) that I have to scan a code as there were two others in line ahead of me to sell. Totally normal, nothing new, as this process is done in many thrift stores. While I waited off to the side next to another customer, who by the way was also waiting. I get told " You don't have to just stand there, you can go outside" YET the other customer does not get told the same. I am a patient and respectful person so I complied with what I was told to do. I waited outside for roughly 20 min. No problem with that though, I've waited longer and did not mind waiting. I enter after 15 minutes or so to check up on my items because I had not received an update. I get told by the same cashier( who I had spoke with earlier ) "There are two others ahead of you, we will send you a message" with a very rude attitude. I respond with "No problem at all, I just wanted to check on my items. I will wait outside. " KEEP IN MIND it was my first time checking up on my items. I go back outside and wait for that message. 5 minutes later I receive a message saying my items are ready. I go back inside and get helped by the same cashier who continues to have the same rude attitude. I decide to wait inside this time and sit in a nearby chair. She is checking my items looking through one by one. The cashier then starts a conversation with 2 other cashiers asking about the items. While they are talking about the items the other 2 cashiers don't seem to notice that I am the owner of the items. Loudly they make snide comments infront of me and other customers as well. The male cashier(long hair, head band, wearing all black clothes) "Did you look it up? Did you find it anywhere?" . He continue to make comments Insinuating that my items are fake. The other cashier associate who to me seems to be the manager(Caucasian female, long brown hair) responds with "Yeah look it up! Just look through it quickly there are other customers waiting. While , I understand that there were other customers in line , I would assume my items would be shown the same importance as others. To top it all off the Cashier who was assisting responded to the conversation saying " It's a nice color, but nah I don't want to risk it". Please know that I was sitting by the counter the entire time. At the end of checking the items. 2 of my blouses were bought. The cashier assisting me offered me $16 in store credit and $8 cash. I was not interested in purchasing due to the poor treatment. As I chose the cash option the male employee mumbled under his breath " See, what I mean " thinking that I would not know what they were talking about. I took my remaining items, the $8 and left . Never again will I come back to this store. I would understand if perhaps they were under pressure but I was the ONLY customer being treated so poorly and having to endure with unprofessional attitudes. Disappointed that I have to ask for basic human decency! This interaction showed no professionalism at all ... WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS STORE! read more