How do I consign with you?
Thank you for considering becoming one of our valued clothing consignors. Please e-mail us or telephone us (604.931.4442) for consignment appointments. You will find an outline of our consignment procedures located in the "How to Consign" section of this website.
What types of items do you accept for consignment?
Closet Addiction Boutique is an upscale, ladies' designer fashion boutique, so on the simplest of levels we accept high-quality (often designer, but not necessarily so if it is unique), in-season, new or new-like (regarding both style and condition) clothing and accessories which a discerningly-stylish woman in her 20s - 40s+ might be interested in wearing.
While we aren't fond of phrasing things in the negative, it may be helpful to list here what we do NOT accept...
Closet Addiction does NOT accept the following items:
- men's, children, or maternity clothing
- plus-size clothing (we are happy to suggest you visit our friend Ramona at Les Grandes Dames)
- sports equipment or outdoorsy-type clothing (exceptions ie - a stylish Spyder or Bogner ski jacket)
- underwear, lingerie, hosiery, swimwear (although some exceptions can be made for brand new, quality items)
- furniture, toys, knick-knacks, antiques, etc.
- furs or bridal gowns (although exceptions can be made for a Vera Wang or a Carolina Herrera)
- fakes, replicas, knock-offs (we are particularly vigilant regarding handbags and sunglasses -- please note our strict acceptance policy for the protection of our customers)
- precious jewellery or antiques, nor any pierced earrings which have been previously worn
- anything which is out-of-date, out-of-season, stained, wrinkled, dirty, pet hair-covered, has missing buttons, etc. (In short, any items which are less-than-perfect cannot be accepted)
- any items better suited for donation to a thrift store
- shoes which are not brand new or very nearly brand new
- anything purchased more than 2 years ago, unless it is of timeless/classic design and/or a particularly special piece
There are many fine stores which are able to accept some of the above-noted items, and we'd be pleased to point you in the right direction if you require assistance.
Do you accept vintage items?
While we recognize the quality and uniquely beautiful characteristics that often come with vintage pieces, Closet Addiction's focus is on contemporary clothing.
One of Closet Addiction's unique attributes is that it is a consignment store that does not actually "smell like a consignment store". We have found that even with thorough cleaning, it can be difficult to completely eliminate that "vintage-y" smell from many older pieces. There are many other fine consignment stores in the Vancouver Lower Mainland which are also better equipped to evaluate, price, and market your cherished vintage items. Having said all of this, there are the odd exceptions regarding well-cleaned vintage pieces. But, if you're looking for someone to handle the liquidation of an older estate, for example, Closet Addiction unfortunately is likely not the place for these items.
What is your policy re: fakes and knockoffs? Can I bring in my Prada bag if I don't have its receipt?
We happily accept all authentic designer handbags, wallets, sunglasses, watches, etc if accompanied by proof of purchase/authenticity. If you do not have the original retail receipt, you must agree to a third-party authentication process, at a cost of $8-10, payable in its entirety by the consignor from the consignment proceeds.
Closet Addiction does not and will never knowingly accept any items for sale which are fakes, knock-offs, replicas, etc. It's illegal. It's stealing. And fakes are not cool anyhow. No substitute for the pride you feel in carrying the "real thing".
While we regret that our strict acceptance policy may result in some inconvenience to many good consignors, we must insist upon the presentation of the original retail store receipt (or agree to the authentication cost) in order to accept designer handbags, sunglasses, watches, etc. for consignment.
We know that this may result in our turning away a number of genuinely-authentic items, but we feel this policy is necessary for the protection of our customers. After all, if our customers can feel confident in shopping with us, they will be willing to pay a higher price for your other (authentic, of course) items. And, any fashionista worth her salt should be retaining her store receipts for insurance/repair contingencies or for cross-border travelling -- has anyone else out there had the experience of a Customs Officer being overly-inquisitive about the authenticity of a perfectly authentic LV? So we thank you in advance for your understanding and co-operation in this regard.
Closet Addiction imports brand new authentic European designer overstock handbags and sunglasses to sell in the boutique, recognizing its own strict intake/acceptance policy.
Please feel free to contact us for more information should you have any questions or concerns. Thanks!
What brands/labels do you accept? Which ones are you likely to say "no thank you" to?
The best way to get a feel for whether or not there might be a fashion fit is to come down to the store and browse our racks -- get an idea of the type of merchandise we offer for sale. If you're unsure, feel free to e-mail us photos of your potential items and we'll let you know whether or not we'd like you to bring them in.
In addition, to save you time, dear consignor, we have compiled a not-exhaustive yet fairly-comprehensive list of brands that we typically accept or do not accept. If we have a brand listed as "not accepted", please note that it is not meant to be a statement toward the quality of that brand -- often times it simply refers to the lower price point that the garment sold for at retail hence not making it worth your while monetarily from a consignment point of view.
Also, please note that while many of the items presented for potential consignment may be lovely, Closet Addiction selects items based on its customers' preferences -- sometimes we just don't have a market for certain items. If this is the case, Closet Addiction will be pleased to refer you to other reputable shops which may have a different market/customer base.
Remember, this list is by no means complete -- it's just meant as a general guideline.
GENERALLY NOT ACCEPTED:
Old Navy, Gap, H&M, Le Chateau, Jessica, Nevada, 725, Gloria Vanderbuilt, Suzy Shier, Jacob, TNA, Forever 21, Garage, Reitman's, American Eagle, Joe Fresh, Rickis, George, Playboy, Express, La Senza, Devonshire Cream, or any other mainstream "mall" or "'tween" brand.
SOMETIMES ACCEPTED IF ITEM IS HIGHER-QUALITY/HIGHER PRICE POINT/UNIQUE (ie - leather jackets, coats, cashmere sweater, etc):
Bebe, Guess/Marciano, Lululemon, Danier, Diesel, Zara, Lucky Brand Jeans, Club Monaco, Banana, Tommy, Esprit, "surf and skate" labels such as Billabong, Roxy, Abercrombie, Hollister, Burton, etc, Anne Taylor,Talbot's, Nine West, Liz Claiborne, Arden B, J. Crew, Plum, Weekenders, Victoria's Secret (ie Colin Stuart shoes, etc, but NO lingerie), Kenzie, Talula, one-off designer collections as created for Target and H&M (ie - Vera Wang, Thakoon for Target, etc), FCUK,
GENERALLY ACCEPTED:
BCBC Max Azria, Marc Jacobs, Miss Sixty, LV, Prada, Gucci, Fendi, Versace, Juicy Couture, Kangol, Lacoste, Primp, Rock & Republic, Seven, 7 for All Mankind, True Religion, Nudie, Earnest Sewn, Acne, Rag & Bone, J Brand, Antik, Karl Lagerfeld, Luella, Pink Tartan, Robert Rodriguez, Derek Lam, Arthur Mendonca, YSL, Rodarte, Jeremy Laing, Dolce & Gabana, Marni, Chulo Pony, Gentle Fawn, Missoni, Christian Dior, UGG, Christian Lacroix, Burberry, Holt Renfrew, Viktor & Rolf, Phillip Lim, Diane von Furstenberg, Vivienne Westwood, Betsey Johnson, Etro, Costume National, Proenza Schouler, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, DKNY, Jil Sander, Givenchy, Jean Paul Gaultier, Anna Sui, Chloe, Stella McCartney, Celine, Vera Wang, Michael Kors, Armani, Ralph Lauren, DEPT, Solola, MaxMara, Tahari, Naf Naf, Kenzo, Boss, Cacharel, Mackage, Rudsak, Holt Renfrew private label
Please also note -- it's NOT just about the label; we'd also be pleased to take a look at any items which are either unique in character, or of excellent quality but without immediately-recognizable name branding (ie - anything purchased overseas). As long as they are in perfect condition, and of current season and style, we'd be pleased to review your items.
And, just to mention it again, please bring us only authentic merchandise -- no knock-offs or replicas.
Disclaimer: Closet Addiction is in no way affiliated with the above-noted brands and we are not a licenced distributor nor representative of same.
Why do I have to bring my items in on hangers?
While we acknowledge this takes a bit more prep work on your part, it's for a couple of good reasons, mostly centred around maximizing the value of your time and your consignment earnings.
Basically, an item that looks better sells better, and for a higher price. An item that is brought in in a garbage bag will be wrinkled and not neatly ironed/pressed -- and, since items are to be freshly laundered/dry cleaned/Dryel before presentation, it is counterproductive to wrinkle them up again.
Also, bringing items in on hangers facilitates the intake procedure as it allows for quicker viewing of your items. They are easier to sort through at a glance, and your "no thank-you" items can be returned to you right away. Don't worry, all of your hangers will be returned to you -- we have our own pink velvet hangers at the store.
Of course, new shoes and jewellery, etc. cannot be hung, so please bring them in clear plastic bags or whatever is most convenient for you.
Is there some sort of contract to be signed as a consigor?
Yup. We'll go over the terms of the Agreement during your first appointment (part of the reason why we require all initial consignors to make appointments).
How do I get paid?
At the initial signing of the Consignment Agreement, you'll choose whether you want to receive 50% or 40% of the net sale proceeds*.
If you choose the 50% option, it is to be used exclusively as an in-store credit. You can access this money as soon as one of your pieces sells. Your credit has no expiration date.
If you choose the 40% option, you will be paid by cheque at the end of your Agreement term. You can choose to come pick it up at the boutique or have it mailed to you. Even if you choose the 40% option, you are entitled to access your money as a store credit as soon as one of your pieces sells (the difference is, you just don't receive the 10% bonus).
We pride ourselves on having a separate "trust" account for consignor's money, so there need never be worries about payment. We have also invested in an advanced software program which will accurately track consigned items and will provide you with a full accounting of your sales. This software also allows Closet Addiction to price items to obtain their maximum value and pricing consistency, helping to ensure your item is priced correctly. Moreover, should an item's tag fall off, the computerized inventory system will allow for easier location -- getting your item back on the sales floor quicker.
* Please note that most new consignment accounts are currently being processed on an in-store credit or gift certificate basis only. Some are still being processed on the cheque payout basis; please contact us for more information.
Why does it matter that Closet Addiction has computerized consignment software?
We have invested heavily in an advanced software program which will accurately track your consigned items and will provide you with an immediate full accounting of your sales. This software also allows&nbsr be worries about payment. The software handles the transactions and calculations.
Do you carry or accept grad or evening dresses?
We would be pleased to accept cocktail dresses and evening wear closer to the seasonal event itself. We find that February/March (grad, prom, heading into wedding season), and October/November (Christmas and New Year's) are the best months for intake of these items, depending of course upon their style, colour, and fabric.
Why should I shop at Closet Addiction?
Thanks for asking. A few of our favourite reasons:
It's fun -- you'll never know what you'll find and stock changes daily.
It's fresh - Our store looks, feels, and smells like the discerning boutique it is -- you won't be rummaging through crowded bins (although admittedly, that can be fun sometimes too).
It's wise -- why pay full retail for one designer outfit when you can come out with two or three for the same price?
It's different -- for the gal who's tired of seeing everyone in the same thing and who wants to express her own unique style.
It supports the community -- sales proceeds go directly into the pockets of your fellow local fashionistas.
It supports BC charities - Closet Addiction supports Dress for Success and the Cinderella Project via clothing donations. A sales rack is also maintained from which a portion of net proceeds goes to West Coast LEAF (women's Legal Education and Action Fund).
It's green -- wonder if Al Gore likes Dsquared2? Nah, he's probably a Ralph Lauren guy.
We could go on...but we hope you'll just come in and see for yourself!
Do you carry plus-size items, maternity wear, children's clothing, bridal, men's clothing and/or furniture?
The brief answer to the above is "no". If we had the space, we would love to carry these types of items. Having said that, there have been the odd exceptions, and if you are shopping our store you may run across one or more of these items. But generally, we do not accept consignments in these categories.
For a fabulous plus-sized store, we suggest a visit to Les Grandes Dames.
Q: I need a cool Halloween costume -- what have you got?
A: If your costume is to go as Rachel Zoe, then by all means! However, Closet Addiction is not a Value Village or thrift store type of place where you can find outdated or costume-y type pieces. We carry contemporary and current fashions, in the style of Changes Consignment, Dragon & Phoenix, and Turnabout Consignment stores. We do also have a lot of unique, sometimes vintage pieces, and you may find one or two things to add pizazz to your costume, but you're not going to find an ensemble befitting a 70s disco queen. If you're looking for something specific, feel free to call or drop by and we'd be pleased to assist.
|