On Halloween, the Times reported that Goodwill is trying to change its image into more of a consignment shop rather than a place of “charity” by hosting fashion shows online, and promoting good deals on the blog DC Goodwill Fashionista.

And now, the Wall Street Journal says consignment shops as a whole are doing incredibly well right now, with about 66% of resale and thrift stores watching their sales climb, and about 85% reporting an increase in new customers. Meanwhile, more and mroe high-end stores are trying to figure out their place in the current economic climate and we’re witnessing more sales than ever, even at the good shops.

Which kind of makes this new Goodwill perfectly positioned for this new predilection towards good clothes that’s cheaper just because it’s been worn. Though we wonder about the supply of clothes there possibly dwindling for the people that shop there out of necessity rather than trends - and yes, what about all those hipsters who love to brag over their $2 Goodwill tees? Will they react to the trend by taking their dollars elsewhere?

So many questions.

We’ve been meaning to go through our closet lately, since every drawer seems to have a six-inch high padding of “maybe I’ll wear it” clothes that never sees the outside world. So good thing Banana Republic’s giving us a reason to get going.

Who: Banana Republic and Goodwill

What: Their second annual sweater and coat drive - Bring your gently worn sweaters and coats to any Banana Republic store (US and Canada only), from October 16th to October 26th, and get a 30% discount at the store in exchange.

Why: Because not only could you use a cute sweater dress on sale, but all donated goods will end up at Goodwill locations around the country, and the revenue from your old stuff will fund job training and employment programs for people who could really use it.

Last year’s drive generated almost a half-million dollars - and wouldn’t it be so easy to talk your boyfriend out of ugly sweater choices with facts like that?