How to Revamp Your Wardrobe: What Our Chief Merchant Is Consigning Now
It’s the beginning of February, which means it’s the perfect time to make sure you’re still on track with January’s resolutions. Perennially at the top of the list for anyone who loves fashion is figuring out how to revamp your wardrobe for the new year. Deciding when to let pieces go, what to do with pieces you’re done with and how to build your dream wardrobe can seem overwhelming. Who better to give advice than someone who’s dialed into trends on the runways as well as what’s most valuable on the resale market?
Above: Céline Skirt, $575
Our Chief Merchant, Rati Levesque, has perfected the art of refreshing her signature style with pieces that stay true to her look, yet infuse her wardrobe with a fresh spin that’s always ahead of the curve. Key to this is her regimen of frequent consigning and investing in new pieces. Read on to find out her favorite designers with the highest resale value, what she’s eyeing for spring and more tips on consigning to revamp your wardrobe.
Tell us about the pieces you’re consigning.
These are all pieces I’ve worn a lot over the last year but I’m ready to let go for one reason or another. An Hermès coat that I love but is a bit big in the sleeves. A Céline skirt with a beautiful silhouette that just didn’t work out for me. This Acne skirt I have worn a lot and now I’m ready for someone else to wear it.
These Prada sandals were a little snug for me — I love a good mule right now but am looking for something with less of a heel. Also, Jil Sander boots I never really got around to wearing for fall, a Stella McCartney dress, Chanel earrings and flats, and a Céline Python Bag.
Prada Slides, $125; Chanel CC Drop Earrings, $325
How often do you consign?
I consign often, at least every eight weeks. I love an edited and more minimal closet.
How do you decide what stays and what goes?
If I haven’t worn something in a few months, I know I probably won’t wear it again. I tend to wear the same pieces consistently for a couple of months and then I’m ready to move on from them.
It’s easier to part with things knowing that someone else will get to enjoy them as much as I did, and that consigning plays into sustainable fashion. Less clothing ends up being thrown out, and people can choose to buy more gently used items instead of constantly buying new. That plus the fact that you can earn money back on your wardrobe investments lessens any shopping guilt.
Editing is a great way to revamp your wardrobe, but also to make room for the new things that are inspiring you. What are you looking to invest in for spring?
I’m looking for a suede jacket for spring, something lightweight and transitional. I would love something from the Loewe spring 2015 show, and I’m also eyeing the LV wrap belt!
Who are your favorite designers with the highest resale value?
Céline, The Row, Acne, Hermès and Christophe Lemaire.
What is the fastest an item you’ve consigned has sold?
Most of the time they sell in seconds! It happens often, and it’s pretty cool to watch.
Stella McCartney Sweater, $175
What’s your advice for smart consigning?
Edit often. If you’re pretty sure you’re not going to wear something again, it’s a good idea to consign it sooner rather than later to get the highest resale value for it. Also, take care of your pieces and buy things that maintain their resale value.
