Here are some great dollar store bargains:
Greeting Cards and gift wrap/gift bags: Some dollar stores have a large selection of cards for all occasions as well as gift wrap, gift bags and other related items. Your gifts will look great and there is bound to be an attractive card with just the right message, all available for a fraction of the cost you will find elsewhere.
Reading Glasses: There are all kinds of designs available for a great bargain. They work just fine. At that price, you can buy them to match outfits or to put in all the locations where you might need to use your "cheaters". The best part? If they break or you lose them, it's not a great loss.
Hair Accessories: There's quite a selection of clips, combs, headbands and pony tail holders along with brushes and combs, all very reasonably priced compared to other stores.
Balloons, Decorations and Party Supplies: A definite bargain here. Many dollar stores offer a large selection of foil and latex balloons for a good price. Decorations and party supplies for weddings, showers, birthday parties and holidays are easy on the wallet too. Many stores have great selections.
There are things that you should consider buying elsewhere:
Batteries: (don't last as long)
Cooking utensils (poor durability)
Spices: (freshness questionable compared to stores with frequent turnover).
Electrical items: Avoid due to safety concerns. Even products with a UL label should be avoided. There has been evidence of counterfeit labeling, so these items are not reliable.
The links below discuss other good and "bad" buys you may find at dollar stores. It is worth taking a look at them so you can shop wisely when frequenting your favorite dollar store. As always, shop carefully, read labels and lastly don't be tempted with impulsive buying and coming home with things you really don't need!
http://business.time.com/2012/03/12/the-best-and-worst-buys-at-dollar-stores/slide/batteries/
http://www.kiplinger.com/article/spending/T050-C011-S001-what-not-to-buy-at-dollar-stores.html
http://www.howdoesshe.com/the-top-10-dollar-store-buys-and-what-not-to-try/
http://money.msn.com/saving-money-tips/post--dont-buy-these-7-things-at-a-dollar-store
http://consumerist.com/2014/02/27/10-things-you-should-never-buy-at-the-dollar-store/