Fashion is about finding yourself, discovering and revealing who you are and who you’d like to be. I’ve never wanted to dress like everyone—or anyone—else. This is one of the reasons I’ve spent more than three decades shopping at consignment, second-hand and thrift stores.
Sometimes I’m on a mission. I’ll decide exactly what I need, the one missing link that will make my closet complete. Without fail, I’ll discover the item I’m searching for after only a few rounds. Other times, I’ll be in a more adventurous mood, trying on whatever happens to catch my eye. Oh, look at this sparkly button-up blouse from the disco era! How have I lived so long without one?
Purchasing previously owned items has an environmental benefit, and is kind to your wallet. This is recycling at its finest—reusing, revamping revitalizing! Plus, items at consignment stores are generally high-quality goods. I’ve gotten years out of leather jackets I purchased second-hand eons ago at a fraction of the original price.
Spring is in bloom
We’re lucky. Within an hour’s drive, we can reach several incredible consignment stores. Right in the heart of Point Reyes Station is Bloom. Here you’ll discover true one-of-a-kind finds, like an orange leather jacket straight from Paris or a black cashmere poncho to curl up in on cozy days. There are belts and purses, scarves and sandals. The jewelry case overflows with exquisite items: sterling silver, moonstones, an electric array with something certain to please every eye.
Whatever your style—polka dots, animal print, plaid, stripes, serious, whimsical, business, casual—there is a match waiting for you at Bloom. “It is my hope that Bloom customers feel invited to come inside and ‘experience’ the store,” owner Diane Phillips said. “Sharing my love of beautiful clothes at affordable prices is paramount. People remember experiences, and I want to offer each customer a fun, memorable experience.”
Go on. Spread your petals. Walk into the garden of Bloom.
New York, Paris, Rome, Stella’s
Visiting Stella’s, in San Anselmo, is like taking a trip to Fashion Week without a plane ticket. The store overflows with the best names in the business: Theory, Cop Copine, OSKA, Vince, Prada, Kate Spade, Diane Von Furstenberg, all at absolutely reasonable prices. The colors in the store are bright and engaging. Red patent-leather pumps reside on one shelf. An antique rhinestone belt glitters by the door. An ombré purse by L.A.M.B. sits patiently waiting for its next owner.
From the moment you walk into Stella’s, owners Laura and Amy make you feel at home. They’ll help you find the perfect fill-in-the-blank or let you meander on your own, whichever you desire. Once they get to know your style, they’ll even suggest items that might work well for you.
Laura at Stella’s says, “Have fun, try something new, and don’t take any of it too seriously. Consignment can be a win-win for all parties.” Stop by Stella’s to add a fashion infusion to your wardrobe.
Spring cleaning your closet
Now that spring (cleaning) is upon us, this is the perfect time to bring pieces to consignment stores. When consigning, pay attention to the unique aesthetic of each store. Bring in items that are in good shape, that still have plenty of life left in them. Ask ahead of time for the rules of the store. At Bloom, owner Diane Phillips says that she looks for “very gently worn, stylish and contemporary merchandise. I focus on selecting those unique items that are hard to find.”
Do yourself a favor and check out these two women-owned businesses this spring. Fashion is definitely in the air.
Bloom Boutique, located at 60 Fourth Street in Point Reyes Station, is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stella’s Consignment Shop, located at 224 Greenfield Avenue in San Anselmo, is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Annalisa McMorrow’s closet overflows with vintage fashion. She’s been second-hand shopping since Madonna felt like a virgin.