Men's store for tight budgets: Salvation Army Thrift Store

The Salvation Army's flagship Minneapolis store violates one basic rule of retail — the best stuff is in the basement. Some thrift store customers never even make it to the lower level, where all the merchandise is new. The sizable men's casual section includes tees, jeans, slacks, sweaters, polo shirts, sport shirts and pajamas. Nothing sells for more than $15 and most items sell for $6 to $8. The selection of tees ($4) and polos ($6) in a wide variety of solid colors rivals a painter's fan deck. Nearly everything is a sample or overstock from Target or Wal-Mart, which explains the lack of suits and sportcoats. Spartan but clean and well-lit, the basement is a gem for guys.