Housing Works spring preview sale in NYC is offering up to 70% off of clothing and houseware items.

Two nights ago, LifeStyler intern Francesca Antonacci and I attended the opening of the new Housing Works AIDS foundation/thrift store in Tribeca. This one houses two floors of goods and words cannot express how much I love this organization.

LifeStyler intern, Felicia Montalvo, and I decided to brave the early throngs of people lined up outside the Housing Works warehouse in Long Island City, Queens last Saturday. Waking up at the crack of dawn (ok, not really) and hopping on the long train ride from the BK to Queens was long and tedious, but we trucked on in hopes for the light at the end of the tunnel — a bag full of designer duds for a flat twenty bucks.

By now we know that it’s no picnic dealing with terrible economic woes in general, but it’s particularly biting during the holiday season. You may have scrapped some holiday plans or purchased less gifts this year, but don’t let that stop you from helping out a few good causes. There are many organizations out there with charitable missions that you can support with a small donation (and get a tax write-off in the meantime). Keep on reading for 20 charitable causes and organizations to support this holiday season.

I’ll make this short, sweet, and to the point. I’ve spent the past two Saturdays rummaging through the Housing Works stores looking for Christmas presents, and they have not disappointed. So if you’re lost on what to buy someone for the holidays, hop on over to one of their stores for some quick inspiration. It’s a rare and beautiful day when you can find a Borrelli tie for $10, a set of bourbon glasses for $4, and a brand spankin’ new Diane von Furstenberg dress for $65 all in the same store.

If you’re a regular reader, then you know I’m keen on plundering thrift stores; I’m an ace student in Thriftology 101. So, when I got the chance to pick the brain of fellow thrift store junkie and creative genius, Eddie Ross, I was more than happy. Keep reading below for Eddie’s top NYC thrift store picks, tips on how to weed out the junk from the true treasures, and fun gift ideas for the holidays.