[UPDATE: This story was originally published on July 30.]
While our closets house some of our most sacred possessions, they also have the capacity to catapult us from calm to crazed in seconds. Especially when they’re packed to the brim with items, which, quite frankly, are collecting cobwebs.
But, it’s never too late to save your sanity — and style – by unloading those unworn goods for cash and trolling for secondhand treasures. To aid you in becoming a savage scavenger, we’ve devised a handy-dandy cheat sheet to S.F.’s best consignment shops. Whether you’re looking to replace that pair of too-snug jeans with some vintage YSL's or trade in a tired tulle frock for a slick pencil skirt, we promise, there is a cheap find for every kind on this list.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Pretty Penny
Located in Rockridge, this East Bay gem is giving lots of love to Oakland by not only providing residents with gorgeous, vintage resale rags, but by consigning items only from local fashion and jewelry designers. It accepts vintage clothing, accessories, jewelry, and footwear from the public on the weekends. So, the best time to wander in is on a Monday for a first look at the newest treasures.
What You’ll Find
Eclectic vintage (like a Fred Perry wool jacket worth $400 for only $58) and local East Bay independent designers.
Expert Tip
Sarah Dunbar, owner of Pretty Penny says, “Make sure items are in excellent condition and in season. Other than that, have an open mind to the experience.”
Pretty Penny, 5488 College Avenue (between Forest Street and Lawton Avenue), Oakland; 510-594-9219.
Mercy Vintage
As a go-to for many West Coast stylists who are looking for that extra-special something, Oakland’s Mercy Vintage is the place to find those mind-blowing “wait, where did you get that?” pieces. It buys and replenishes daily, and consigns new handmade jewelry and designer clothing and accessories. Bonus: The profit is split equally with clients.
What You’ll Find
Unusual statement items including embellished motorcycle jackets, hand-embroidered tops from Guatemala, and '70s batik wrap skirts. You'll also find vintage designs from YSL, Alexander McQueen, Issey Miyake, Pierre Balmain, Ceil Chapman, and James Galanos.
Expert Tip
Karen Anderson, owner of Mercy Vintage says, “Build relationships with consignment-shop owners. We often call people when we know what they are looking for. Find out how often your favorite shops replenish and when. Be consistent and patient — it will pay off and often the hunt is half the fun.”
Mercy Vintage, 4188 Piedmont Avenue (between Linda and Entrada avenues), Oakland; 510-654-5599.
Pretty Penny Photographed by Christine Ting
While our closets house some of our most sacred possessions, they also have the capacity to catapult us from calm to crazed in seconds. Especially when they’re packed to the brim with items, which, quite frankly, are collecting cobwebs.
But, it’s never too late to save your sanity — and style – by unloading those unworn goods for cash and trolling for secondhand treasures. To aid you in becoming a savage scavenger, we’ve devised a handy-dandy cheat sheet to S.F.’s best consignment shops. Whether you’re looking to replace that pair of too-snug jeans with some vintage YSL's or trade in a tired tulle frock for a slick pencil skirt, we promise, there is a cheap find for every kind on this list.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
Pretty Penny
Located in Rockridge, this East Bay gem is giving lots of love to Oakland by not only providing residents with gorgeous, vintage resale rags, but by consigning items only from local fashion and jewelry designers. It accepts vintage clothing, accessories, jewelry, and footwear from the public on the weekends. So, the best time to wander in is on a Monday for a first look at the newest treasures.
What You’ll Find
Eclectic vintage (like a Fred Perry wool jacket worth $400 for only $58) and local East Bay independent designers.
Expert Tip
Sarah Dunbar, owner of Pretty Penny says, “Make sure items are in excellent condition and in season. Other than that, have an open mind to the experience.”
Pretty Penny, 5488 College Avenue (between Forest Street and Lawton Avenue), Oakland; 510-594-9219.
Mercy Vintage
As a go-to for many West Coast stylists who are looking for that extra-special something, Oakland’s Mercy Vintage is the place to find those mind-blowing “wait, where did you get that?” pieces. It buys and replenishes daily, and consigns new handmade jewelry and designer clothing and accessories. Bonus: The profit is split equally with clients.
What You’ll Find
Unusual statement items including embellished motorcycle jackets, hand-embroidered tops from Guatemala, and '70s batik wrap skirts. You'll also find vintage designs from YSL, Alexander McQueen, Issey Miyake, Pierre Balmain, Ceil Chapman, and James Galanos.
Expert Tip
Karen Anderson, owner of Mercy Vintage says, “Build relationships with consignment-shop owners. We often call people when we know what they are looking for. Find out how often your favorite shops replenish and when. Be consistent and patient — it will pay off and often the hunt is half the fun.”
Mercy Vintage, 4188 Piedmont Avenue (between Linda and Entrada avenues), Oakland; 510-654-5599.
Pretty Penny Photographed by Christine Ting
