The Benefits of Consignment Store Fashion

Are you a habitué of consignment stores when it comes to apparel? If not, you may be missing out on a fabulous resource. For those unfamiliar with the term, consignment is the act of consigning, which is placing items─in this case, clothing, shoes, hats, jewelry and other accessories─into the hands of a given store owner, retaining ownership until the items are sold. In this scenario, the original owner is known as the consignor, whereas the agent is the consignee. When the item sells, both parties make a profit. So, how does this relate to you as the savvy vintage shopper? Well, consignment stores are a terrific resource, for several reasons:

You’ll find better quality

Unlike flea markets or thrift stores, which can be a feast or famine situation depending on the day, the offerings, and your patience, consignment store owner’s screen out poor quality merchandise, so you’ll typically find gently used apparel of respectable quality. You’ll also typically find the merchandise to be nicely displayed, as well as clean, and free of stains.

You’ll get a real dressing room

If you know flea markets, jumble sales, and most thrift stores, you’ll agree that a comfortable, well-lighted dressing room is a luxury indeed. It’s a simple benefit, but one that can really make the difference in your ability to determine whether a garment is suitable, well fitting, and flattering to your figure and personal style. If it doesn’t meet these qualifications, it’s no bargain.

You’ll find affordable treasures

You would arguably need to spend a lot of time at a Goodwill or charity store to discover that one gem─like a cashmere sweater, beaded classic pumps, or vintage lace camisole─though on occasion, astonishingly, you’ll find these. At consignment stores, however, your chances are much higher. And when you do, they will be priced at a fraction of the original value. The cake is sweetened by the fact that such items will typically continue to increase in value if well cared for.

You can distinguish your wardrobe

If you appreciate unique items, and tend to cultivate an interesting personal style, you’re probably not shopping at Wal-Mart. Many consignment shops are noted for timeless, classic apparel from a range of fashion eras, with many unique items. You may find a great designer dress or treasures from smaller designers, or even handmade items. No question about it, finding beautiful, one-of-a-kind items at often surprisingly low prices is smart and chic.

You can cultivate a relationship

Unlike many thrift stores where employees may cycle in and out, a good consignment shop owner will value your patronage and want to cultivate it. That means that once you start shopping and find some gems, the owner will get a sense of your taste and style. In some shops, especially in smaller communities, shop owners will start a file on regular patrons like you and keep a look out for items you’re searching for, like that cool mod 60’s dress, designer 80's jeans, or sumptuously beaded clutch.

As you can see, consignment shops in many ways offer the best of both worlds. High-quality fashion at vintage store prices, what’s not to love? So find your local shop and take a peek. You’ll likely find these boutiques can add tremendous bloom to your bouquet of vintage fashion resources.