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It was a noble idea when the Lower East Side Service Center decided to turn Manhattanites' unwanted designer duds, furniture, and home accessories into cash to help those affected by substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, and mental illness. Today, the Angel Street Thrift Shop—located in Chelsea—is more than just the result of a philanthropic gesture and draws a steady group of regulars who have come to rely on this spot for its many diamonds in the rough. New donations arrive each day from patrons and designers alike, and though many pieces still have their original tags, Angel Street's prices are a real bargain. (Burberry for under $50?!) But, as many frequent shoppers will attest, if you see something worthwhile among the shop's organized and well-stocked racks, snag it, because tomorrow it'll be history. Despite the creaky wooden floors and standard-issue thrift-store racks—both staples of generic secondhand shops—the atmosphere is far from the dusty, cluttered feel of your local Salvation Army. The shelves here are organized and clean, the glass countertops sparkle, and everything—from apparel to armoires to champagne flutes—is displayed with impeccable care and attention. — Corinne Iozzio

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