When people think of consignment shops, they think of rows and rows of disorganized disaster. They think of low quality, overused clothing that is not up to date with today’s trends. However, a local boutique is breaking stereotypes, and it has done an impeccable job doing so.
Change of a DRESS got its start from an idea between two co-workers. Owners of the boutique, Meghan Morehardt and Danae Carroll, became great friends when working together in retail. The idea for their shop came from this friendship. They both enjoyed high-fashion clothing items but also enjoyed paying for these items for less, and they knew other women liked to do the same.
“A lot of peoples’ biggest complaint about consignment shops is having to sift through racks of clothes, trying to find one nice item,” said Moredhart. “We wanted to do something different here.”
Since taking this idea and running with it in 2013, the boutique has found great success. Here is how the boutique’s consignment process works: A person can bring in their high-end, lightly worn and in-season clothing anytime. No appointment is necessary. The boutique will then decide to buy the item from you or not, paying you in cash or with store credit. The boutique then turns around and sells the item for a discounted price, which makes high fashion affordable for everyone. Some items are even donated to the Junior League’s Career Closet in Old Town.
According to Carroll, the clothes found in the boutique are unlike anything seen in the usual consignment shop.
“We get amazing unique stuff,” said Carroll. “A lot of women come up from Denver to sell us their clothing. Most of the items are hundreds of dollars and the price tag is still on them.”
Carroll and Morehardt focus on collecting high-end brands, because they are made from materials that last. The boutique stays away from lower-end brands like Forever21 or Target because the material is less durable. The boutique’s inventory ranges from Lululemon athletic gear, to Michael Kors purses and even Free People apparel.
“Workout gear goes like crazy,” said Morehardt. “The purses do too. Even the vintage purses and boots are gone fast.”
Since the boutique has a wide variety of products, finding the perfect sophisticated piece is a breeze. The bank account will also be satisfied from the incredibly savings.
“You do not have to spend all that money to get the good stuff,” said Morehardt. “You will look just as fabulous for half the price.”
A Change of a Dress is located at 4032 S College Ave.