6 Secrets to Shopping Consignment Like a Pro

You all loved my last article so much I had to give you more tips for shopping on consignment. Want to navigate consignment stores like a pro, even if you’re a newbie? These six tips are our most coveted tricks for snagging quality pieces and gorgeous hidden gems you’ll be so excited to take home! Keep reading my 6 Secrets to Shopping Consignment like a pro!

1. Check the windows for new pieces.

Customers are always asking us which pieces are “just in.” One of the perks of being a frequent consignment shopper is that you have a greater turnover of new, exciting pieces to find than in traditional stores. While most stores only restock for each season, consignment stores constantly have an influx of clothes and accessories. That means you can shop the same consignment stores frequently and never get bored.

If you’re looking for the newest pieces, check the windows. Most consignors will try to attract new and repeat customers by putting the most recent and eye-catching merchandise in the window. (And if it’s not the newest merchandise, it’s probably the most popular or exciting pieces.) So always check the store windows for hidden gems. In this case, window shopping is your best friend! 

Another great way to see the newest pieces is through social media. Follow us on Instagram @currentboutique to ensure you stay up to date with our blog, posts, and recent additions to the store.  

2. Steal the mannequins’ style.

Like store windows, many consignment store managers and owners will display their top-notch merchandise on mannequins. There are two important reasons to check out the mannequins.

First, shoppers are naturally drawn to mannequins, so they’re a great place to show off high-quality wares and outfits. If you’re looking for premium pieces, you’ll likely find them separated on mannequins or their own table.

Second, the mannequins’ outfits tend to showcase hot, current trends. And if they’re not showing trends, they’re likely promoting those classic pieces that attract a wide range of women. So, whether you want trendy items or classic pieces, mannequins are a great place to look!

3. Check out the displays behind the counter.

Many consignment stores have additional displays behind the cashier’s counter or in locked containers. This is where they’ll keep a lot of the high-end designer pieces, especially jewelry and purses. (Hint hint: this is where you’d find a Chanel bag and other high-end handbag designers.)

We notice that many new consignment shoppers tend to hang toward the front or outskirts of the store – maybe because they’re nervous or unsure where to look. But don’t be afraid to browse in the locked displays and ask a sales associate for assistance with a closer look at pieces. You’d be surprised how many incredible gems get passed by in these cases!

4. Chat with the staff.

That brings us to our next point: utilize the staff. Consignment store staff are usually very knowledgeable about the pieces in store. They have a good sense of recent, popular, high-value, and trendy pieces. Consignment employees are often with the merchandise throughout its consignment journey, so they are really well-acquainted with the pieces compared to traditional store staff.

Whether you’re looking for a specific item or just want to learn more about the store, staff members are one of your best resources. Plus, Current Boutique’s staff loves chatting with our customers and building a community of fashion lovers!

Another pro tip? Build a relationship with your favorite consignment stores. Tell the employees what kinds of pieces you’re looking for, your style, and what you like to stock your closet with. Many consignment stores, like Current Boutique, want to build a relationship with you; our staff members may even give you a call if they spot a piece they think fits your style!

Recommended read: How to be a Considerate Shopper

5. Hang out near the dressing room return rack.

If it’s a particularly busy time of day, many of the quality and preferred pieces might not be in the front of the store… They’ll be in the dressing rooms snatched up by keen eyes. If a garment doesn’t fit or someone decides against it, you can swoop in to try it on yourself!

Don’t take clothes out of someone’s dressing room. We’re talking about trying on the clothes from the return rack that are waiting to be put away by staff members after someone has decided not to buy them.

P.S. Learn about the differences between a consignment shop and thrift store here.

6. Shop often.

New arrivals come in every day. So, if you’re a fan of shopping (like me), consignment is the best way to get your retail therapy. You could theoretically shop in-store or online every single week (or day) and see something new!

Plus, the more often you shop, the more likely you’ll find hidden gems. Often, consignment shopping is a numbers game. Some days, you’ll go home empty-handed, and other days you’ll find ten pieces that perfectly match your style. One of my favorite parts about consignment shopping is the treasure hunt of finding pieces that jump out at you.

Keep in mind that some pieces are more popular than others. For example, Chanel dresses in a popular size will be purchased within a few days (if not a few hours). So, the more often you shop, the more likely you’ll be able to spot those more popular preloved pieces before they’re gone.

Want more consignment shopping tips and tricks? Check out the sister to this article: 10 Consignment Hacks You Need to Know.