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Standard and Poors might have downgraded the U.S. credit rating, but that doesnt mean you need to downgrade your wardrobe to match. Consignment stores offer designer clothing at achingly affordable prices, a perfect fit for the frugal fashionista.
Consignment makes sense on both sides, says Calista Hoster, an assistant manager at Double Exposure, a consignment boutique in Darien, Conn. Shoppers save a lot of money on high quality pieces, and consigners can make some money on the pieces they sell.
And it seems the current climate of economic uncertainty is actually providing a little boost to the consignment business. Were constantly getting new consigners, which is wonderful, says Hoster. Some people are moving or downsizing their residences. And some say theyve never consigned before, that they used to just get rid of things or donate them. But many of the pieces theyre bringing in have never been worn, they still have the tags on them, and consigners want to make a little money back.
For shoppers, this is great news. One of my favorite pieces that we just got in for fall is a Diane von Furstenberg leather jacket, says Hoster. Its beautiful. And, priced at $298, the expertly crafted size six jacket almost literally a steal.
The key to saving money while consignment shopping is finding the right store. Just because the clothes are seeing a second act doesnt mean that the staff should approach customer service as an afterthought. The staff works hard at making the store easy to shop and helping people find exactly what theyre looking for, Hoster says of the Double Exposure team who is charged with keeping the racks fresh and organized, and offering the same kind of styling services you might find at a high end boutique. Weve almost finished the switch over to fall. And there is so much great new stuff that keeps coming in. Its really exciting.
Is the current climate of economic uncertainty affecting your fall shopping? Do you shop consignment boutiques, or sell your clothes at them? Comment here, or email me at mmorelli@mainstreetconnect.com.
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