My Review: Current Boutique – Washington, DC

Since I started my thrift/vintage/consignment store tour I have truly developed a better appreciation for the DC metropolitan area. Finding gems such as Current Boutique really makes me smile. And who knew there is more than one in the area. Here is one place I know I can go into on any given day if I need to find a high end dress for a swanky party and not have to pay full price. I love not having to travel to Friendship Heights for my fancy dress needs. Instead on my way home for work I can stop off and find a variety of styles which won’t break my wallet. Whoohoo!!!

Current Boutique is a consignment shop with locations in Clarendon, Old Towne and Logan Circle. They accept contemporary women’s clothing, accessories, shoes and handbags that are in perfect condition. This ensures the highest quality of inventory. So if you are looking for the “perfect” high end second hand item CB is the place to go and no appointment is necessary unless you have over 60 items.

Staff at Current Boutique is friendly and professional. If you need assistance they are willing to help. The name is quite fitting. Current for the current styles and Boutique because you definitely get the feel of boutique shopping when you enter the store. The store is bright and airy and they have the nerve to play that music that makes you want to spend more money . Good going Current Boutique.  They also carry new clothing in the front of the store at very reasonable prices. When you get a chance check out one of their stores. Oh and by the way I am the Mayor on Foursquare for now….somebody is pushing hard to take my spot . Its all fun though…..uh I’m heading there right after work to check in!!

Shoppers were whipping through the store frantically seeking out great buys

I visited Current Boutique during it’s grand opening along with two of my girlfriends. That day the store was packed with women anxiously looking through racks and racks of clothing in all sizes, designers and styles. It was like looking through the closet you wish you had at home.

My friends were so busy shopping and eating cupcakes I had to take this picture of myself holding this cute silk dress

We even had some tasty cupcakes

There is no way you can come into this store and not find an item that would match your style

Chris picked up this shorts jumpsuit by guess and some fancy jewelry to go along

The little black dress that every woman should own

We will definitely be back for more shopping fun

My Review: Black Eyed Susie, Washington, DC @BlckEyedSusieDC

Black Eyed Susie located at: 3443 14th Street NW, Washington DC

 

Anyone who knows me knows that Black Eyed Susie is by far my favorite consignment shop in DC. Ok I might be a little biased, after all we hosted an awesome clothing swap in May. However when you combine the great clothes, the cuteness of the shop, great prices and an owner who has the most warm and inviting personality imaginable you have all the makings of a fantastic consignment shop.

Susie and her sweet cat Cinder

What do I admire about the owner Susie Saadian? When you are shopping in her shop you feel as though you are the most important customer. Not everyone has that kind of natural warmth and kindness. She never grows weary when it comes to servicing her customers. She is truly one of a kind.

How adorable. I'm a sucka for a cute kitty.

Located in the Columbia Heights neighborhood, Black-Eyed Susie’s provides the community with affordable, gently used clothing and accessories for men and women. Black-Eyed Susie’s will provide an opportunity for individuals to buy and sell wearable, in-fashion and current with the trend clothing and accessories. (excerpted fromhttp://www.blackeyedsusiedc.com)

Black Eyed Susie accepts goods on consignment by appointment only. Call and schedule a time to stop by.

The counter has jewelry and other smaller items displayed

Photo courtesy of http://www.blackeyedsusiedc.com

Plenty of jeans and slacks to select from

Susie started Black-Eyed Susie because she noticed a need for more clothing stores in the Columbia Heights area. She was very excited to see that in the same month that she opened two other clothing stores also opened. Check out her neighbors It’s Vintage Daring and The Fashion District. (I will be writing a review of It’s Vintage Darling in coming month)

When thinking of names her mother suggested ‘Black-Eyed Susie’ because like the wildflower, Black-Eyed Susan, Susie was a wild child.

Susie always features some fabulous find on the mannequin as you are walking into the store

Me and Susie the owner of Black Eyed Susie DC

The selection of clothing at Black-Eyed Susie is great. She has loads of blouses and tops for work and fun. She also carries great handbags and loads of shoes in a wide range of styles and sizes. You will certainly find something and take it home with you. I always do.

Lily purchased this very cool shirt @ Black Eyed Susie DC

The day I stopped by Susie was assisting a customer in her selection of a stylish yet functional bag she could use while bike riding. She even found some accessories to give it a little bling.

A very happy customer

Be sure to stop by Black Eyed Susie for a fabulous shopping experience. You are sure to find a few items reasonably priced that you can take home and add to your wardrobe.

See ya soon Susie! I’m coming in to pick up this shirt I have been eye balling it for a while now. I only hope its still there

Photo Courtesy of http://www.blackeyedsusiedc.com

Vacation Thrift Store Shopping: NCJW Thrift Store in LA

Council Thrift Store in Los Angeles definitely made #2 on my list of great thrift stores in LA. Prices were fairly reasonable and the selections were fabulous. The store was clean and things were organized very neatly on the racks and shelves.

All in all there are 6 NCJW thrift  locations in LA and 3 in the San Fernando Valley. Taken directly from their website the National Council of Jewish Women …….. provides support that uniquely addresses the whole person: from the warmth of a piece of clothing … to the emotional comfort of group counseling, from the security of our confidential Talkline … to the refuge of a newly refurbished library, from the real-world practicality of life skills training … to the opening of a world of possibilities though art and literacy programs – NCJW/LA is there to serve and advocate for those who are at risk and in need.

I just love to hear the mission and purpose behind many of these organizations. It’s always good to know that those in need are benefiting at the along with helping the environment and your wallet at the same time.

My visit to Council Thrift Store was fantastic! Although I paid in the double digits for a two items they were well worth it. I  took note as soon as I walked in the door that prices were a little steep. I soon realized the “designer/boutique” rack was right there as soon as you walk in. There was a vintage dress for $65 (seen below) and I almost  turned around and left. I’m really glad I didn’t. Just wish I had more time to peruse this fabulous store.

At Council Thrift store you can find everything from designer clothing to home furnishings reasonably priced. They also carry a good deal of designer purses and bags. I will definitely return to this store on my next visit to LA. In fact I’m thinking about corralling some of my thrifting buddies and planning a weekend trip of thrifting on the southern cali area. Anyone game?

Racks and racks of brand name clothing

$65 vintage dress - Can't remember who is the designer

Home goods and all sorts of knickknacks

Furniture

Standard prices: $6 skirts $7pants $6 blouses $10 suit jackets

Men's and women's shoes - 3 racks

Silk pleated skirt with unusual folds at the bottom. This photo doesn't do it any justice

paid $30 for this orange Bebe leather jacket

Paid $30 for this embroidered jacket from India

My Review: Wagging Tails, Rockville MD

Vacation is over, sad to say and jet lag is still lingering around. *yawn* Nonetheless I must catch up on my reviews of local thrift stores in the DMV.

Wagging Tails is a store I was so excited to finally visit. I’d first heard about the store when I attended Sip & Sew at DC Threads. I began making my list of locations to visit from the stores mentioned during this event. When I learned this store benefits the Montgomery County Humane Society I was sold. Clothing and puppies! Does it get any better than that?

The first item I saw when I walked in the door was a vintage Singer Sewing Machine. This store must be after my heart. Luckily I own two of these machines and I didn’t take this one home although I was slightly tempted to add it to my collection . I inspected it anyway and found the price to be quite reasonable and in better shape than the two I own.

Antique Singer sewing machine. In better condition than the one I own

The day I stopped by Wagging Tails there was a sale in progress. All dresses were 50% off!! What a great deal. Also the woman in front of me in line as I was about to check out had an extra coupon she was willing to pass on for 50% off any item. Was this my lucky day or what?

I began in the dress section and on to the tops, blouses and suits. Pretty soon I was knocked off track by all the other goodies in the housewares department. I found vintage cookware, corning ware, suitcases and various other luggage pieces. There was so much to be seen in this wide open space. As I moseyed through the rest of the store I stumbled across some of my favorite things: Fabric, Butterflies and rocking chairs!

Imagine that bolts of fabric. I didn’t take the fabric with me but its good to know Wagging Tails is an option I can check back with periodically.

The staff was very helpful and customer friendly. the prices were reasonable and the location was easy to find. I give this an overall score of 3 1/2 stars.

Having signs placed in clear view left out the guess work on the prices. How refreshing.

Entrance to the store

Plenty of furniture to chose from like this stylish futon

Vintage wedding dresses which I now regret not purchasing

Who knew you could thrift shop for your pet. Leashes, carriers etc

Three racks of shoes in a variety of sizes

Toys and goodies for the children

What?? Fabric?? you are kidding me! This made my shopping experience complete

Two cases of jewelry to choose from

After I checked out spending a mere $25 on two dresses, corning ware, jewelry, a skirt and a blouse I made sure to sign up on the mailing list for special offers and coupons via email. When you have time be sure to stop by this store and pay them a visit. Hey you might even leave with a puppy.

My review: Plato’s Closet, Virginia

All in all I must have visited 20 stores last month. Incredible with my work and volunteer schedule for the month of May. I tried to squeeze in at least 2-3 stores a weekend which was pretty challenging. I finally wrapped up over Memorial Day weekend and even had a chance to revisit some of the locations.

Today I’m reviewing a Virginia thrift store. There will be a total of 4 reviews for VA stores which include Plato’s Closet, Goodwill in Herndon, Good Shepherd-Hopes Treasures and Mr. K’s Consignment which is actually in West Virginia.

We will get started with Plato’s Closet first. I visited the location at 45591 Dulles Eastern Plaza,  Sterling, VA 20166 703-421-8470

What a fun store. As soon as you walk in you feel as though you are walking into a Simply Fashions or Hit or Miss. Even though those these stores don’t typically have the highest quality clothing the decor is very colorful, energetic and inviting. Plato’s Closet resembles this atmosphere however the quality of clothing is far beyond that of any of those retailers. While shopping I found a Banana Republic 100% Silk Dress, Charles David sling-backs, DKNY blouse, a necklace and bracelet set all for under $30.

Plato’s closet makes me think of the fast food of consignment stores. You literally walk-in sign up and they take your clothing and process it within a short window of time, usually while you shop. There is staff assigned to do nothing except examine the clothing and I must say they really inspect every detail. A few sellers left unhappy but over all they appear to have a great operation and professionally run.

Below is how it works:

	Bring in your gently used brand name clothing and accessories.
	While you check out the latest styles in the store, the buyer will review your items.
	The buyer will create an offer based on style, condition, brand and the store’s current stock levels.
	Once you accept the offer, you’ll be on your way with some extra cash or a hot new outfit (or two)!

The proof of their quality control is in the pudding in the sales floor. They carry brands that are hip and trendy and have been in the stores within the last 18 months at 70% below mall prices. You can’t beat that. Somethings are a bit pricey but if you like higher end clothing and want to pay less this is the place for you.

Advertisements for Plato’s are geared mainly towards a younger crowd but I didn’t find too many teeny bopper items hanging on the racks. Instead I found clothes that I would likely wear on the weekends and many pieces I could incorporate into my daily work wardrobe. So I would say to all the stylish ladies in their late 30′s don’t rule out Plato’s for your thrifty shopping needs. Lastly, if you are interested in owning your own store you can get information on franchise opportunities. Impressive! Overall I enjoyed my visit immensely. The absolute best part of my time spent in the store was of course the little sandy brown poodle who was greeting customers and running behind her owner. I will definitely make another visit.

My thrift score: 3 stars

Plato's

Plenty of accessories

Casual shoes

Tons of handbags

Organized and separated by size

Cute shoes – Famous name brands

They even sell previously viewed DVD’s

Always accepting clothing

They even have a cute little puppy who meets and greets the customers

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes......

Jeans galore

My review of Georgia Ave Thrift Store, DC

I must admit this one receives my “Pleasant Surprise” award. At first glance pulling into the parking lot I thought, this better not be another one of those “pseudo thrift stores”.  I walked into the store and saw how crowded it was and my 2nd thought was there must be some great bargains in here. Low and behold there were plenty. Mind you this store is not for the faint or weak of heart. The aisles are narrow, there are tons of clothing to look through, which can be daunting. Besides that the dressing rooms aren’t always open. All that aside everything is remarkably organized. Long dresses all together, short dresses together, pants, vests, skirts all separated. Everything is color coded and call ahead of time to find out which color tags are 50% off that day. I got lucky. For Memorial day all red tagged items were 1/2 off and green, blue and white tags were also 50% off. While shopping there a sales clerk made an announcement that a truck was 30 minutes away. Not sure if that meant items would be coming directly into the store or what. But shoppers were clearly excited about this announcement. I didn’t get the sense clothes were thoroughly cleaned or refreshed before going to the floor because afterwards I really needed to wash my hands. That being said as a rule of thumb I always take thrift items to the cleaners or put them in the wash before I bring them in the house. I strongly suggest you do the same.

Within the first 10 minutes of my arrival I found a 100% silk dress by Jones of New York, a Vintage 60′s dress and a navy blue and white striped off the shoulder long dress. All great finds. There was so much more to see. Overall you can find some interesting pieces at a good price but you would need to be mentally prepared to tackle this store.

Georgia Ave Thrift Store Located at 6101 Georgia Avenue Northwest Washington D.C., 20011 - (202) 291-4013 (thanks Kanisa LOL!!)

My thrift score 3 1/2 stars and remember call ahead.

Jen’s May Thrift Store Tour

Whew!!! That’s all I can begin by saying. What a whirlwind of a month and I enjoyed every moment of it. Last month I randomly chose thrift and consignment stores in the DC, MD and VA area. I wasn’t sure which stores I would visit and when. The idea was to get out, explore and give an honest critic from my unique point of view.

I am a sewist and designer. I have recently embarked upon refashioning and restyling as a way to enhance and breathe new life into a wardrobe therefore I typically look for pieces that need a little work. Not something I can just send to the dry-cleaners and wear next week. That would be nice but where is the challenge? My eye sees things that the average person doesn’t always see. I generally venture beyond “oh I could just put a hem in it or add a few darts” I take an item to the point of rip off the sleeve or take the skirt off a dress and replace it with something more fancy. Reusing a bodice was my mothers favorite fashion technique. No one was ever able to tell it was the same top. Soon I will post those pictures. At the time I didn’t appreciate it very much but as an adult and as a sewist I think my mother was BRILLIANT back in the day.

For the next few days I will blog about each of these stores and tell you why they did or why they didn’t meet my expectations. Each one receives a title and a rating. I also rate them on cleanliness, customer friendliness, quality of merchandise and location/accessibility.

I made a purchase and nearly every store. I can honestly say I was only disappointed one time. The store had a lot of potential but really didn’t do what it needed to get to the next level. Needless to say I didn’t buy anything and I get the feeling I won’t venture back there again.

Some of the stores I visited: Meeps, Plato’s Closet, It’s Vintage Darling, Mustard Seed, Mr. K’s Consignment, Polly Sue’s, Georgia Ave Thrift Store, Martha’s Table, Current Boutique, Black Eyed Susie (of course), Frugalista, Hope’s Treasures, Wagging Tails and I even threw in a few Goodwill stores I thought were pretty spectacular.

Well enjoy the reviews over the next couple days.

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