In an era of belt-tightening and cutting excess spending, people can benefit from the many options local consignment stores offer. Whether it's clearing out one's closet in an effort to trim a wardrobe and make some extra cash or abandon trips to the chain department stores and opt for a gently used vintage garment at a lower price, consignment stores offer outlets for both. Here's a list of a few local consignment stores that cater to both options.
Jewell's
www.ijayg.com
124 S. Meridian, Puyallup
(253) 864-7619
This store in the heart of downtown Puyallup prides itself on carrying the latest in ladies fashion and accessories. The resale boutique carries apparel for ladies and teens, as well as purses, belts, shoes and scarves. Jewell's accepts consigned clothing according to season, and by appointment only.
UrbanXchange
www.hipsterswanted.com
1932 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
(253) 572-2280
UrbanXchange, located in downtown Tacoma, selectively buys, sells and trades used clothing and accessories for men and women, from, to, and with the public, on a walk-in basis. The store specializes in both ultramodern and vintage attire. It purchases clothes based on season, demand, condition and inventory levels.
Customers can bring in their like new, unwanted treasures (clothing and fashion accessories only) Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the staff will select the items that are popular sellers and put a retail price on them. Customers may then get the option of taking 30 percent of that total in cash or 50 percent in store credit. Any items that UrbanXchange passes on can be left in the store and will be donated to charity.
Vanity
http://www.etsy.com/shop/melsvanity
3903 6th Ave., Tacoma
(253) 761-7810
Vanity is a resale shop located in Tacoma's 6th Avenue business district that specializes in vintage clothing with a mix of eclectic newer resale items. The shop also has a Web site featuring pictures of the newest items so customers can browse the selection before going to the store.
Orange On Broadway
http://orangetacoma.com
739 Broadway, Tacoma
(253) 970-7080
Orange On Broadway calls itself a "retro resale" shop. It specializes in vintage clothing and offers trade-ins on Thursdays or by appointment.
Queens' Closet
http://www.queensclosetonline.com/index.htm
9614 40th Ave. SW, Lakewood
253-475-9576
Queens' Closet is a plus-size women's apparel consignment boutique specializing in sizes 12 thought 6X.
It consigns used and new upscale and designer items, and everything is hand picked by experienced merchandisers. All items must meet exacting standards. It offers professional wear, formal wear, sportswear, lingerie and shoes. Shoes are consigned in many sizes including size 12. There is also jewelry, hats handbags and other accessories.
Appointments are necessary for bringing in clothing for consignment.
JBLM-McChord Field Thrift Shop
The shop is located in Building 717 across the street from Adventures Unlimited on the installation. From the main gate, take a left at the traffic light onto Barnes Blvd, and then make a right turn on Battery Street.
(253) 982-2468
The McChord Thrift Shop is nonprofit run almost entirely by volunteers. All proceeds are distributed to the Officers' Spouses Club and provide scholarships for military family members and to support various charities in the local community. Customers can find bargains and make some extra cash for themselves through consigning items. Customers keep 80 percent of the sale price, and the other 20 percent goes to the thrift shop.
The thrift shop is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, as well as the first Saturday of the month. Customers can bring items in for consignment from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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