by Dawn Mellon
Dawn Mellon, Dallas-based stylist to the stars and our new columnist, shares her savvy shopping tips with La Mode Dallas.
It is said that “necessity is the mother of invention,” and in today’s challenging economy, fashionistas turned recessionistas, who still need to look fabulous have invented a chic new way of shopping. It’s called the “Second-Time Around Party”, which, simply put, gives women an opportunity to sell or exchange pieces that haven’t reached their full fashion potential.
Traditionally, consignment stores have been a great avenue for those looking to turn their unwanted items into cash or to find something ‘new’ without paying full price. In fact, the National Association of Resale and Thrift Shops (NARTS) recently reported that 64.1% of the stores who participated in its survey realized a 31% increase in sales in the 2nd quarter of 2009 compared to the same time period last year. Further, 28 % of NARTS members say the quality of the merchandise they are now receiving is even better than in the past.
Consignment stores are attractive for many reasons. They typically have a high turnover rate, meaning your pieces are likely to sell within the consignment period, and there is little effort on your part. As long as your clothes are clean, ‘gently used,’ and ‘in style,’ you drop them off and wait for your check to arrive. On the flip side, you will most likely have to wait at least 60 days for that check, and can expect to recoup about 25% of your original investment, at best.
While there are other alternatives to consignment stores, such as e-Bay, consignment web sites, garage sales and newspaper advertisements, I urge you to consider a Second-Time-Around Party. Beyond receiving 50% of your original investment versus 25% percent or less at a consignment store, you can donate anything left over to charity for a tax write-off. And most of all, it's a great excuse to get together with your girlfriends!
Here’s how it works:
The Hostess:
The hostess invites women to her home or other venue to buy, sell or trade their unwanted items – some guests may only be ‘buyers’.
The Parameters:
The hostess also sets the party parameters, including the type of items to be sold - clothes, shoes, accessories, housewares, childrens' clothes, toys, etc.
Condition of the items
Size of the clothes or shoes (if applicable)
Pricing guidelines
The Guests:
Each guest should bring a beverage and/or h’douvre to share so the hostess won't incur any entertainment expenses.
The Party:
Let the shopping extravaganza begin.
Guests set up before the party begins
During the first hour, the guests will browse and have an opportunity to showcase their most valuable items.
For the remainder of the party, guests will shop and pay with cash or exchange items with other guests.
The After-Party:
The hostess can arrange for a consignment store or charity to pick up leftover items from her home the next day.
In our next issue, look for information on another shopping alternative, the “Ultimate Exchange.”
