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Kids often outgrow
their clothes before they see any real wear and tear. If a
younger sibling isn’t waiting in the wings, consider
selling some of your child’s good-as-new threads to
consignment shops. Here’s how.
>> Before You Schlep a sack full of clothes to the
shop, call ahead to ask them what items they need at the moment—if
it’s the middle of summer, they won’t want wool
coats—and tell them what you have to offer. Consignment
shops are constantly seeking to replenish their stock, so
find out what’s selling out. Since most shops are by
appointment only, you’ll need to set up a time for them
to view your stock. If you can’t get an appointment
for a few months (which happens frequently) check back closer
to the day to see if their needs have changed.
>> Assess The Condition of your clothes. You can’t
bring everything that doesn’t fit anymore. Make sure
the clothes are wearable and, most important, that all the
snaps and buttons are secure and working. Brush off any pet
hairs and bring only clean clothes. Run them through a wash
cycle before setting them aside.
>> Your Cut Of The Profits will most likely be a
predetermined percentage of the sale price (usually between
30 and 50 percent). Ask if you can sign a contract, and agree
on the price beforehand. If you paid more for a specific item
(or even if it has significant sentimental value) don’t
feel bullied into a lower price. You’ll also want to
know how long the clothes will remain on the floor, and what
will happen to them when the consignment period is up. Some
places will return if they don’t sell, others will offer
to donate to a charity.
>> Our Favorite Shops: Children’s
Resale; 212-734-8897; and Jane’s
Exchange; 212-674-6268.
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