It is officially spring.Time to shed the winter doldrums, heavy clothes, boots and your winter handbag. Question is, what to buy for spring with so many choices, colors, shapes and sizes.

If you are looking for an investment bag that you will carry daily, it is wise to stick with a classic shape and color. Go for a nude, khaki or camel envelope bag. This timeless style comes in a plethora of sizes with a variety of handle or strap options.

A hot spring trend is the Chain Gang bag. All the designers, Louis Vuitton, Bottega, Oscar, and of course Chanel are offering a spring chained up bag. This is a great option to be on trend and add a touch of sophisticated edginess.

Buy your classic or a chain bag, but also purchase a colorful tote. These splashes of spring  can be found everywhere in a variety of costs. Color blocking, stripes, two tone or a great straw bag will add a bight crisp pop to any outfit. My Sister Closet has a great selection of designer and favorite bags. Ranging from $24.50 up to the designer level of Christian Dior and Prada as shown below.

Another great buy for Spring and into summer is a Hot White Bag. Keep it clean by finding a cool texture of patent leather that doesn't show a little dirt. Since this is a seasonal trend bag try and keep it under $100.00.

What good does any of this shopping and sourcing do if we do not know how to carry the handbag. We must look to our friends on the runways and listen to Ken Downing as he tells us to wrap the bag under our forearm and hold it with our hand.

A new handbag is a fun shopping experience. it is always and easy fit and requires little effort to try on. Do look in a full length mirror to be sure the bag is in proportion with you size. We no longer need to carry the kitchen sink. Keep It Simple...

Elevate Your Style Game This Spring Training

The Valley's Premier Recycled Designer Apparel Shop offers tips for getting out of the wardrobe slump

Here in Arizona it's starting to feel like spring and that means, STRIKE, you're out to the park... Baseball... Spring training is in full swing. The stylish Sisters of My Sister's Closet and Well Suited, the Valley's premier dealer of recycled designer apparel want to help you elevate your game this spring and believe in always putting your best foot forward, whether it's in a pair of stilettos, ballet flats or a baseball cleat to a diamondbacks baseball game. "I know what all you fashionistas are saying. It is spring training and we want to go, sit in the sun, have fun and be comfortable. Comfortable ok, but please, comfort does not mean jammie pants, wife beater tees and an ombre mullet," said Tess Loo, sister and stylist at My Sister's Closet. "Comfort means wearing the appropriate clothing and if you think people are NOT checking out what you are wearing to the game, you're wrong!" Loo, who is also the head stylist at My Sister's Closet and Well Suited says it is human nature to look and stare at what people have selected to wear to spend an afternoon at the ballpark. "What if Tony Batista is there and wants to meet you, and there you stand looking like a toddler with ketchup dripping down your Kurt Warner jersey. Definitely a fashion Don't," said Loo.

Spring Training Looks Do's and Don'ts

• You will be sitting outside for several hours - wear a hat! Choose a team hat that is preferably from one of the teams you are watching. The older and more seasoned the better. That does not mean reeking of beer and covered with mustard. Or ladies, a great fedora, with your favorite ray bans. After all, what a great place to meet male baseball fans. My best topper is my Melissa Odabash black and white fedora paired with my pink Ray Bans, lots of sunscreen and dewy lips coated with Burt's Bees.

• Yes, a cute dress is appropriate. Casual and colorful and a good length for sitting. NOT too short. An outfit of all white is always a good spring look if you can do this without wearing your food.

• DO NOT wear your favorite baseball jersey reproduced in PINK. NO PINK. Stick with the actual jersey colors. If you want to jersey up, be sure it is authentic looking and well fitting. Tie it over a tank and put on a fun eyelet or floral skirt.

• Put on your Ash wedge tennies, Tory Burch flops or Havaianas. Be sure you are up to date with your pedicure if the tootsies are exposed. Remember Tony is there watching you!

• If you are going to wear a jersey with your favorite players name, be sure you are a kid under the age of 14. If you are a fan and want baseball statistics, these are the whiz kids to ask. They usually wear the name for a reason. They are true fans!

• Shorts are great, but please keep the butt cheeks in the bull pen. Remember the whiz kids are there. This is not a nightclub or another opportunity to show what a great job your plastic surgeon did on your new additions. Layer a cardigan over your tank, so you are prepared for climate change from sun to shade.

• A pair of rolled at the top beach pants with an off the shoulder sweater is always a great pulled together casual look. Choose a blue and white horizontal stripe top for a fresh look. Please, leave the capris at home or better yet in the donate pile.

• Jeans are a good option as well. How about a pair of colored denims? They are abundant at the stores and add a splash of color with your look. How great would a pair of bright yellow jeans be with a blue and white jersey, with your baseball hat and wedge tennis shoes? A true homerun! Roll the jeans at the ankle and put a colorful tank under the jersey. Add a cross body bag so your hands are free for a soda and hotdog.

• "Go, be comfortable, be appropriate and be fashionable," said Loo. "Look good, feel good and all the sudden you act better. Equipped with this knowledge you can move forward as a well-dressed fan. Even if you do not understand the game, you look and feel like you belong. Have fun. A smile and self-confidence is the best accessory this stylist owns."

Elevate Your Style Game This Spring Training

The Valley's Premier Recycled Designer Apparel Shop offers tips for getting out of the wardrobe slump

Here in Arizona it's starting to feel like spring and that means, STRIKE, you're out to the park... Baseball... Spring training is in full swing. The stylish Sisters of My Sister's Closet and Well Suited, the Valley's premier dealer of recycled designer apparel want to help you elevate your game this spring and believe in always putting your best foot forward, whether it's in a pair of stilettos, ballet flats or a baseball cleat to a diamondbacks baseball game. "I know what all you fashionistas are saying. It is spring training and we want to go, sit in the sun, have fun and be comfortable. Comfortable ok, but please, comfort does not mean jammie pants, wife beater tees and an ombre mullet," said Tess Loo, sister and stylist at My Sister's Closet. "Comfort means wearing the appropriate clothing and if you think people are NOT checking out what you are wearing to the game, you're wrong!" Loo, who is also the head stylist at My Sister's Closet and Well Suited says it is human nature to look and stare at what people have selected to wear to spend an afternoon at the ballpark. "What if Tony Batista is there and wants to meet you, and there you stand looking like a toddler with ketchup dripping down your Kurt Warner jersey. Definitely a fashion Don't," said Loo.

Spring Training Looks Do's and Don'ts

• You will be sitting outside for several hours - wear a hat! Choose a team hat that is preferably from one of the teams you are watching. The older and more seasoned the better. That does not mean reeking of beer and covered with mustard. Or ladies, a great fedora, with your favorite ray bans. After all, what a great place to meet male baseball fans. My best topper is my Melissa Odabash black and white fedora paired with my pink Ray Bans, lots of sunscreen and dewy lips coated with Burt's Bees.

• Yes, a cute dress is appropriate. Casual and colorful and a good length for sitting. NOT too short. An outfit of all white is always a good spring look if you can do this without wearing your food.

• DO NOT wear your favorite baseball jersey reproduced in PINK. NO PINK. Stick with the actual jersey colors. If you want to jersey up, be sure it is authentic looking and well fitting. Tie it over a tank and put on a fun eyelet or floral skirt.

• Put on your Ash wedge tennies, Tory Burch flops or Havaianas. Be sure you are up to date with your pedicure if the tootsies are exposed. Remember Tony is there watching you!

• If you are going to wear a jersey with your favorite players name, be sure you are a kid under the age of 14. If you are a fan and want baseball statistics, these are the whiz kids to ask. They usually wear the name for a reason. They are true fans!

• Shorts are great, but please keep the butt cheeks in the bull pen. Remember the whiz kids are there. This is not a nightclub or another opportunity to show what a great job your plastic surgeon did on your new additions. Layer a cardigan over your tank, so you are prepared for climate change from sun to shade.

• A pair of rolled at the top beach pants with an off the shoulder sweater is always a great pulled together casual look. Choose a blue and white horizontal stripe top for a fresh look. Please, leave the capris at home or better yet in the donate pile.

• Jeans are a good option as well. How about a pair of colored denims? They are abundant at the stores and add a splash of color with your look. How great would a pair of bright yellow jeans be with a blue and white jersey, with your baseball hat and wedge tennis shoes? A true homerun! Roll the jeans at the ankle and put a colorful tank under the jersey. Add a cross body bag so your hands are free for a soda and hotdog.

• "Go, be comfortable, be appropriate and be fashionable," said Loo. "Look good, feel good and all the sudden you act better. Equipped with this knowledge you can move forward as a well-dressed fan. Even if you do not understand the game, you look and feel like you belong. Have fun. A smile and self-confidence is the best accessory this stylist owns."

Dear Phoenix and San Diego designer resale fashionistas; the time has finally come.

We’ve been waiting all year. We’ve been counting down the days. And on that fateful Sunday, we gathered our friends, our food, and our ballots to sit down in front of that lovely T.V.

And we watched the Oscars.

We smiled at the adorable Ben Affleck, we gushed over the beautiful Jennifer Lawrence (and her flawless trip recovery), and we clutched our hearts at the indescribable Meryl Streep. And when the very last speech was given and the very last ballot was counted, we swooned in our striped Betsy Johnson pajamas and we smiled to ourselves at yet another incredible Oscars performance.

But, wonderful west coast ladies, don’t fret – though awards season may be behind us, the Oscars experience is far from over. In fact, it is now time to do what we’ve been waiting to do since the moment those incredible gowns hit the red carpet: it’s time for our My Sister’s Closet Phoenix and San Diego Resale Oscars Best Dressed Review!

• Pretty in pink: From Jennifer Lawrence’s gorgeous wedding-style Christian Dior to Anne Hathaway’s silky Prada gown, pink was a show-stealing color this year at our very favorite awards show. In their beautiful pearly pink, both Lawrence and Hathaway took home even more than an Oscar this year; they took home our votes as two of the Best Dressed!

• Simple and stunning: Though it was hard to take our eyes off of her beautiful hairstyle, Charlize Theron’s soft, simple, white Dior Couture column gown was the perfect mix of elegant and flattering. Though we’ve always been a Charlize fan, her gown’s gorgeous v-cut structured top and light dusting of crystals made us fall head over heels all over again!

• Hollywood Glamour: Taking home the number one spot on our Oscars Best Dressed list is the incredible Jessica Chastain. The “Zero Dark Thirty” star turned heads on the red carpet in her gorgeous Armani Prive champagne colored gown, adorned with sparkling Swarovski crystals. Tall, classic, and elegant, we went crazy over Chastain’s old Hollywood look, and even though she may not have won an Oscar, she absolutely won our vote!

Overall, we give this year’s Oscars an “A+” on our Best Dressed report card! And though we’ll miss our favorite red carpet event, we’ll always have our brand new Phoenix and San Diego designer resale trends to keep us busy – until next year!

Even though we know that our Phoenix and San Diego designer resale stores are located on the bestcoast, we just can’t help but swoon over the Big Apple. Whether it’s having breakfast at Tiffany’s or taking a walk in those brand new espadrilles on a sunny spring day in Central Park, there are a lot of reasons we west coasters find ourselves falling for the beautiful New York, New York.

But that being said, there is one reason that seems to top all the rest: the four little words that can get our pulses racing in a New York minute…

New York Fashion Week.

That’s right, Phoenix and San Diego resale fashionistas, we’re talking about the New York Fashion Week. From Tory Burch to Vera Wang, we’ve been eyeing the latest trends from afar, and the verdict is in:  we couldn’t be more excited. Here are our top three reasons why we just can’t get enough of New York Fashion Week.

1. Finding new favorites: One of the best things about New York Fashion Week is getting the chance to scope out designers you may never have heard of before – designers who bring innovative looks to the runway you may never have tried before.  From Narciso Rodriguez to Siki Im, don’t just stick with the classic big names: broaden your fashion horizon and your wardrobe.

2. Classic brands, innovative looks: And though you should always stay open to finding new favorites, there’s nothing wrong with getting excited about the new looks from the classic brands you already knowyou love. Case in point: J. Crew’s new collection boasts stunning pinks, beautiful blazers, and gorgeous little clutches. We think we’re in love.

3. Be still, our hearts: Though we’re constantly swiveling our heads at every new piece heading down the runway, we’re always most excited for the upcoming season’s “must have” styles. From the “little black jacket” to this season’s striking emerald pieces, the newest trends are always the perfect update to any closet. 

From exciting celeb sightings to crazy, fun shows (Betsey Johnson’s aerobic workout routine, anyone?), there’s never a dull moment during New York Fashion Week. And though we Phoenix and San Diego resale lovers may be rocking the new looks at Manhattan Beach rather than Manhattan, New York, we can’twait to start strutting our stuffon the real world runway.

Shopping for our Valentine’s Day outfits in My Sister’s Closet resale stores in San Diego and Phoenix, we paused halfway through a rack of True Religion jeans (yes, they were flawless and 90% off retail, but who’s counting?). We wondered, was it too early to decide what we’re going to wear on February 14? 

Then we laughed at ourselves and tried on some San Diego resale Gucci sunglasses – that’s ridiculous; there’s no such thing as too early to shop. This Valentine’s Day, we’re going to look cuter than ever in trends we’re totally obsessed with. Why delay the fun?

 Here’s what we’re thinking:

• Peekaboo Pieces: for a flirty, come-hither style guaranteed to score you a Valentine (or two), take advantage of one of the hottest spring 2013 trends of Fashion Week – peekaboo pieces. Be daring in red midriff-baring separates or show off your never-ending stems in black up-to-there splits.

• Luxe Leather: time-honored and boyfriend-approved, luxe leather pieces are both subtly suggestive and overtly opulent. Dress up a romantic look with a leather biker jacket, or show off your derriere in a fearless red leather skirt.

• Geisha Glamorous: Pay homage to the queens of all things lady-like in a kimono-inspired frock and sandal platforms. The Prada Spring 2013 Collection was clearly inspired by a Japanese muse – come find Miuccia Prada’s sleek and lavish designs at My Sister’s Closet resale stores in San Diego and Phoenix.

Whether you’re an early bird (like us) or you’ll be shopping on February 13, head in to our Phoenix and San Diego resale stores and walk out looking Valentine’s fabulous. Cupid’s arrows are for amateurs – you won’t need any help turning heads.

Looking your best without breaking the bank is a breeze at Well Suited. Our men’s consignment stores in San Diego and Phoenix sell head-turning, panty-dropping, fresh-to-death designer clothes at up to 90% off retail price, so you never sacrifice quality and style for affordability. 

Stop in today to build a polished wardrobe with these basic articles of clothing that every man needs:

1. Dark Gray Suit – For interviews, conferences or everyday office wear, every man needs at least one suit. Spice it up a bit this year by skipping black and picking gray. When picking your threads, follow these basic rules: avoid pleats, chose two or three buttons, and, unless you’re Denzel Washington, stick with single breasted suits (it’ll fit better).

2. Versatile Blazer – If a blazer isn’t a staple in your closet, you’re doing it wrong. Keep it simple – choose a neutral color like gray or black, avoid double breasted or four button styles, and wear your blazer, oh, everywhere. You’re welcome.

3. V-Neck Sweater – V-Neck Sweaters can be paired with almost any look. Take advantage of winter and invest in some cashmere sweaters she won’t be able to keep her hands off. Bonus points if your V-neck brings out your eyes.

4. White Dress Shirt – A crisp white shirt is a no-brainer for any man’s wardrobe. Pick a strong fabric such as 100% cotton that will hold up during days spent at the office and nights at the bar. 

5. Solid Color Jeans – Try to stay away from flashy snaps and details when selecting jeans. Or, if you can pull off the Ed Hardy look, try to limit it to one interesting feature (like cool stitching on the back pockets). Pick a trouser with a slim leg and a dark wash. Remember, keep it clean.

Begin building your wardrobe today at our men’s consignment store in San Diego and Phoenix! If you need help, we’ve got your back – just ask.

Here at My Sister’s Closet Phoenix and San Diego consignment, we’ve noticed something: vegan chic trends have been stealing the spotlight. And from faux fur to faux leather, the only thing that is far from faux is the gorgeous look of such an animal-friendly fashion movement.

Fabulous fashionistas, if you’ve decided to make the wonderful switch to vegan chic, you’re not alone. And thankfully, from handbags to shoes to those gorgeous long coats, the fashion world has vegan options to die for. (Relax, cows and minks, it’s just an expression.)

But with budget in mind and cause in heart, just where do you start?

Because we offer options that benefit those interested in vegan and wallet friendly fashion choices, My Sister’s Closet Phoenix and San Diego consignment has your answer. Here are just a few of MSC’s vegan chic tips:

·         Research vegan brands: Before heading over to our San Diego consignment store, head over to the closest computer. Some amazing designers – such as the wonderful Stella McCartney – pledge to never use fur or leather in any of their designs. Doing a little research pre-shopping excursion is the best way to have vegan chic brands in mind once you step into the store

·         Focus on faux: From comfy non-wool sweaters to gorgeous pleather boots, faux will be your vegan chic friend. And though perhaps it takes a bit of searching, you don’t have to say goodbye to designer brands in order to say hello to animal-friendly fashion.

·         Get creative: Though faux can certainly be a great way to go, creative leather alternatives are always just around the corner – such as apparel and accessories made of cork. Make sure to think outside the box once you arrive at our San Diego consignment location!

If you’re going the route of vegan chic, there’s no need to bid adieu to designer brands! With a little research, a little time and a whole lot of passion for compassion, you’ll have no trouble finding stylish leather and fur alternatives at My Sister’s Closet Phoenix and San Diego consignment store!  

It’s a dirty, rotten rumor that second hand stores in San Diego and Phoenix are wiped out after the holiday season, and if you don’t tell us who told you that we’re going to be like, so ticked. But whatever she told you, she totally lied; January and February are the best time to shop resale stores in San Diego and Phoenix!

Savvy shoppers looking for last minute winter outfits and 2013’s hottest spring styles are in luck! My Sister’s Closet and Well Suited go out with the “cold” and in with the new this month.  As we say goodbye to winter, the local recycled designer apparel stores say hello to new spring fashion with their annual Spring Unveiling event, taking place Saturday, Jan. 26 at 8:00am.

The Spring Unveiling will showcase over 100,000 of spring’s best designer merchandise consigned this season at a fraction of the original retail cost. Each year, male and female fashion enthusiasts line up outside My Sister’s Closet and Well Suited stores across the Valley in the early morning hours in order to be the first to snag the latest trends for the season, and this year is sure to follow suit.

Being the fabulous and exciting fashionistas we are, we have even more exciting news! To make way for the new arrivals, My Sister’s Closet and Well Suited will host their progressive End-of-Winter sale beginning Monday, Jan. 14.  Savvy shoppers can pick up the winter designer duds on their wish lists at already discounted prices reduced by an additional 20-70 percent.  Customers looking for the best fashion finds can shop early, or shop late for the best savings:

Trust us, ladies, your peers (in the world of second hand stores in San Diego and Phoenix) are reclaiming closet space and selling their designer clothes here, where our racks are stacked with drop-dead-gorgeous goodies. Didn’t get what you wanted for Christmas? Don’t miss the End-of-Winter Sale and our Spring Unveiling! The most anticipated events on your fashion calendar are right around the corner, ladies – don’t miss luxe for less at My Sister’s Closet!

Our Phoenix and San Diego Consignment store stylists know: it’s that time of year again. Holiday parties at the office, drinks with visiting friends at the bar, Christmas dinner with the in-laws (yikes). And whether you’re rushing to work, to the airport, or to the store for that last minute errand you’ve been sent on, the winter season can be a busy – okay, downright demanding – one.

That doesn’t leave much time for standing in front of your closet wondering what the dress code is.

But don’t drop by packed department stores on the way home from work just yet. Though your favorite tried-and-true sportcoat and slacks may be looking a little ragged, dealing with the holiday rush won’t make grabbing the perfect (last minute) dinner party blazer any easier. Or more bearable.

Gentlemen, why not just try a Well Suited Phoenix or San Diego consignment store?

Avoid the mess (and prices) at the mall, grab your size (and color and fit), and go. Feel like you need a few extra pieces? Here’s what to look out for while looking through Phoenix or San Diego consignment items: 

·         Stock up on sweaters: Nothing says low-maintenance and damn good looking like a sweater. No matter where you’re headed this winter – from ski resorts to home for the holidays – a v-neck, zipper, or basic wool will work perfectly for any event or gathering.

·         Suit up: You already know you look good in a suit. And you know nothing fits every occasion better than a suit (Neil Patrick Harris, anyone?). You also know the great suits don’t run cheap. But at a Well Suited Phoenix or San Diego consignment store, you get the best of both worlds: pay less than you thought you would and still walk out looking as suave as Don Draper himself.

·         Toss out the ties: And get some new ones. Planning on passing off last year’s Christmas dinner tie stain as a fresh one you didn’t even notice until tonight (it sort of blends in, right?)? Don’t. At Well Suited, you’ll find ties for so much less than at department stores that you’ll have trouble believing their consignment store price. Go ahead; get all four, why not?

So whether you’re trying to figure out what to wear, making that Christmas wish list, or have been told its time to throw out those baggy sweatshirts (not that everyone doesn’t love the old “college class of 99’” classic), Well Suited has your back. To check out our website or find the address for our Phoenix or San Diego consignment store locations, visit us at http://www.shopwellsuited.com/. 

Take a moment, Phoenix and San Diego resale fashionistas. Do you remember making Christmas wish lists? The snowflake-white paper scribbled in crayon, the envelope addressed to that magical North Pole, the sound of the letter dropping into the mailbox, on its way to a certain snow-covered workshop?

Well, even though the days of craving the season’s hottest toy may be behind us, the days of craving the season’s hottest fashion trends definitely are not. And though by now you may have ditched the Crayola’s, making your very own must-have wish list is one December tradition that should never go out of style.

But with all those gorgeous garments out there and only so many lines on a sheet of paper, where should you even begin?

The answer, savvy shoppers?

From the latest handbags to the hottest après ski attire, this winter season, look no further than My Sister’s Closet Phoenix and San Diego designer resale stores. Here are just three of our wish-list-worthy designer items you won’t want to miss out on this season:

• Lace up those beautiful boots: Oh the weather outside is frightful, but in a pair of gorgeous Prada faux fur boots, your toes will be the last ones to know it. Whether you’re looking for a glamorous heel or some serious snow-tested tread, our San Diego resale location won’t leave your feet out in the cold!

• Bundle up: Whether you’re looking for a Burberry plum trench or an Armani quilted jacket, with our wide assortment of sweaters, coats, and vests, you’ll be ready to weather even the coldest winter wonderland this December.

• Welcome back the hat: We know it was hard to retire those gorgeous wide-brim, woven summer sun hats, but don’t fret! The winter months always bring around the next best thing. Looking for an adorable knit cap to stay warm and fashion forward? No matter what style you lust after most, you’ll be sure to find it in our wide San Diego designer resale assortment.

Though we may be lacking the reindeer, My Sister’s Closet has all your fabulous fashion needs this winter. One last word of advice? Make sure you bring along a pen – trust us; from the minute you step into the store, you’re going to start checking off Christmas wish list boxes in no time.

At Well Suited, we offer the best quality and prices when we consign men’s designer clothes in San Diego and Phoenix. Premier men’s designer clothes in San Diego and AZ are delivered to our stores on an unending basis and, yes, we look downright debonair every single day.

But don’t hate the player – looking this good isn’t something that just happens. GQ writers never overhauled our closets and we didn’t hire Will Smith to teach us the art of swagger. No, it takes effort to look this suave. Trust us, we do our homework. 

Men’s fashion blogs are some of the very best sources to get an idea for how real men can dress (and what your girlfriend wants you to wear at her office holiday party). If you’ve never checked out a fashion blog, they’re most often written by a real dude who dresses to the nines but isn’t a model or aspiring designer. Unlike most men’s fashion magazines, the writing on these blogs is down to earth and the looks are actually attainable.

Game recognize game – we gotta give it up for these guys:

1. TBSmen
When he played on Columbia University’s basketball team, Dan Trepanier was the “go-to resource for my teammate’s fashion-related questions.”  Realizing he had a gift, Trepanier worked his way up the fashion ladder to becoming Esquire magazine’s ”Best Dressed Real Man in America” in 2009. It’s safe to say Dan Trepanier knows a thing or two about a thing or two – trust his blog. He breaks down fashion advice into helpful organization, like asking where you’re going, what’s the weather, and a bit about your style before telling you what to wear.

2. Put this On:
If you’ve got a little money to burn and you’re into dressing well, creator Jesse Thorn has direct advice for you: learn some basic dressing fundamentals (to “separate the men from the boys”), and consign designer clothes with excellent quality, fit, and personal style. Watch his how-to and advice videos and walk away feeling like you’ve actually learned something.

3. Why You Mad?!
Think menswear doesn’t change year over year? Slap yourself for entertaining such a ridiculous notion and get smart. Why You Mad?! will tell you what’s in, who made it, and what you’re going to wear it with. After browsing the quality threats they’re rocking, we really hope you’ll finally throw away that American Eagle madras polo your mom bought you senior year of high school. Please? Then, when you’re ready, come consign men’s designer clothes in San Diego and Phoenix at Well Suited. 

At our men’s consignment stores in San Diego and Phoenix, our Well Suited pros get asked every fashion question in the book. From how to find the perfect suit to which tie to wear to that interview, we’ve heard (and seen) it all. But in the end, there’s one question we probably get the most: 

“I like it, but how the hell do I wear this?”

Because we feel that every man should get to own every style he wants, we’ve put together our list of three unique items, and how to wear them. Here is the Well Suited guide to pulling off that look like a pro:

The leather jacket: You nodded your approval at Tony Stark’s in Ironman. You noticed Brad Pitt’s as Tyler Durden in Fight Club. And after watching Top Gun, you knew it was time to either buy your first, or get your private pilot’s license. We’re speaking, of course, about the leather jacket. Though undeniably badass, most men don’t know how to wear the leather jacket. Here’s the trick: go classic and low key. If slim fit is your thing, try pairing it with a collared shirt and skinny tie. If you’re after the Harley look, keep it simple with a neutral colored t-shirt. And please – stick to jeans. You’re not a T-bird.

The cardigan: Sure, you’ve seen guys pull them off. Your girlfriend seems to like them. But when it comes down to it…well, should you do it? Hey, if Daniel Craig does, you can. When looking for a cardigan, look for a lightweight, loose fit. Though it shouldn’t hang like your class of 99’ sweatshirt, it doesn’t have to be crazy slim fit either. Navy, black, and gray work best with whatever you’re wearing underneath – and that’s probably the best part about cardigans: you can wear pretty much anything underneath.

The denim shirt: Maybe you’ve seen it on the cover of GQ, but you’ve never seriously considered wearing a fitted denim shirt. We mean, c’mon, a denim shirt, are you about to go lasso something? Stop smirking and go buy yourself one. Pair a fitted light wash denim shirt with a dark colored skinny tie, or leave it classic with the top button unbuttoned and the sleeves rolled up to your elbows. Pair it with jeans, white Chinos, whatever. Seriously. Do it.

No matter what style you’re after, the pros at Well Suited, our men’s consignment store in San Diego or Phoenix can help you find it and rock it. Check out our online listing of men’s designer clothes in San Diego online at http://www.shopwellsuited.com/. 

Step outside, San Diego designer resale fashionistas. Are you noticing a change? The breeze, the slight chill, the thick clouds in our normally clear blue skies. Even though we west coasters never truly have to say goodbye to the sun (phew!), something’s just a little bit different. And it can only mean one thing:

Fall.

That’s right, the days of silky sundresses and spaghetti straps are gone (for now!) as we head scarf-first into the holidays. But savvy shoppers, don’t fret! With cooler days and Jack Frost nipped noses come a few San Diego resale fashion trends we can’t get enough of. That’s right. It’s time to pull out those cozy Free People sweaters, True Religion hip-hugging jeans, and of course, your favorite pair of Tori Burch riding boots.

Still lusting after those balmy summer nights? We didn’t think so.

Like every change in season, with new weather comes a new wardrobe. Kick off fall with the hottest San Diego designer resale trends– and don’t worry! We won’t leave you hanging like the ocean- dipped month-old bikini in the back of your closet! Here is the My Sister’s Closet way to do fall 2012!

· Scarves, scarves, and more scarves: From Burberry cashmeres to silken Hermes, don’t leave your neck out in the cold this fall! Browse through our Scarves, Belts and Hats page on our website or stop by our San Diego resale store location to check out the newest trends!

·  Bring out the bags: We love summery totes as much as the next girl, but with autumn days come our favorite autumn purses. Thinking classic? You can never go wrong with a jet black Dooney & Burke handbag. But why not mix things up with an adorable Henry Cuir two-toned brown leather backpack?

· Did someone say boots?: We know you love your trusty Uggs (who doesn’t?!), but why not try a pair with a bit more dare? Whether over the knee or jeweled combat, My Sister’s Closet has the newest styles that will make you (and your wallet!) swoon.

Though west coast fall days still mean you don’t have to retire those gorgeous sunglasses anytime soon, the drop in temp will make you happy you dropped in to the My Sister’s Closet San Diego resale store location! Visit us today!

We, the League of Extraordinary Dressers (otherwise known as the charismatic and fetching stylists at Well Suited men’s consignment stores in San Diego and Phoenix), are absolutely smitten with several menswear trends this fall. From dark, brooding color palettes to slim-fitting structure, we’re all about these four designers and their fabulous fall fashions.

1. Kenneth Cole –as much as we love a color coordinated outfit in a bold Nantucket red, we’ve got to tip our hats to Kenneth Cole for his effortlessly masculine fall and winter line, featuring midnight blue and black layers which ooze suave sophistication. Kenneth Cole’s men’s collection boasts finer wools and leathers in dark, stormy shades of blue, black and charcoal; look closer and you’ll see each piece is loaded with subtle, chic detailing.

2. True Religion – calling all cowboys, bikers and beach bums – True Religion’s fall 2012 lookbook is teeming with distressed denim and tailored fits to make any outdoorsman look even more dapper. This collection’s brilliant marriage of work-worn washes and upscale fabrics is undeniably alluring, flaunting a vibe that says “I look this good without even trying.”

3. Hugo Boss – channel your inner Bruce Wayne clad in the fall/winter collection from Hugo Boss.  These opulent, slim-fitting looks take an edgy twist on classic silhouettes, underlining the brand’s high fashion character with luxurious fabrics and charcoal and black hues.

4. Jil Sander – the fall 2012 men’s collection from one of our favorite German designers offers well-tailored fitting, impeccable detailing and attractive use of lines. From strong pant pleats to crisp definition in leather jackets, Jil Sander’s fitted fall pieces offer the structure, style and cut to make any old getup instantly debonair. 

Although our men’s consignment stores in San Diego and Phoenix don’t exactly weather rainstorms often (don’t hate us cuz you ain’t us), this fall we’re all about stormy color palettes, tailored jackets and multiple layers for warmth. Want the look? Stop by our men’s consignment stores in San Diego or Phoenix today!

If you’re already resale savvy, head into our second hand stores in San Diego and Phoenix to browse through our fabulous racks for the deal of this season. Or, recycle last year’s threads and earn cash or credit for your next shopping spree. If you’re not sold on the whole consignment thing quite yet, we’d love the opportunity to convince you. 

Consigning at our second hand stores in San Diego and Phoenix is easy (and feels exactly like shopping in a fancy department store – forget your old notions about dirty, dingy, basement thrift stores). You bring us your designer items, we sell them, and you make cash as soon as the sale closes – simple as that. We accept seasonally appropriate men's and women's designer clothing every day during normal business hours, no appointment necessary. You have our assurance you’ll be paid on time, in full, and with courtesy. At My Sister’s Closet, we love our customers! We’re thrilled to get to know you – our San Diego and Phoenix savvy shoppers – so get off your computer and come vamp up your wardrobe with something fabulous! Or, bring us last season’s gorgeous clothes and get funding for your next shopping spree.

Why bother? For one reason, designer goods are humanely manufactured. Although the budget-friendly price tags in off-brand stores are tempting, the humanitarian drawbacks are a serious consideration. Designer goods cost more because the workers who make them are paid (and treated) fairly. It’s unpleasant to think about, but it’s an incredibly worthy consideration and cause.

What’s more, consigning means going green (in more ways than one)! Think of consigning as recycling. By running your high quality goods through the economy a second time, you’re doing environmental good by reducing the need for unnecessary production. It’s repurposing on a whole new level. Plus, when you consign, you make your money back! Sound amazing? It is.

Look amazing tomorrow – come visit us in San Diego and Phoenix to buy and consign designer clothes!

Any stylist in our men's consignment stores in San Diego and Phoenix can nonchalantly rattle off 1,000 reasons why the west coast is the best coast.  But besides the year-round summers, beach bonfires, vineyards, mountains, and our legendary laid-back attitude, rocking sunglasses year-round is perhaps our favorite west-side one up.

If you’re in the market for a dapper pair of designer shades, look no further than Well Suited. Our impeccable designer shades have the labels you love without those sky-high department store prices. But before you head in to our men's consignment stores in San Diego and Phoenix, make a game plan.

Sunglasses are an investment well worth your time and money because, in all likelihood, they’ll be a daily staple in your get-up. Choose wisely - your coloring, environment, and the shape and size of your head can all make or break your sunglasses’ look.

If your face is…

Round: go for boxy or rectangular frames (like wayfarers) to make your face seem more angular. The frames should be slightly wider than the broadest part of your face, creating a longer, leaner appearance.

Oval: you’re one of the lucky ones – you can pull off pretty much any pair of shades. Your point of attack, however, is to choose the proper size. Small frames which hardly cover any space between the top and bottom of your nose will make your face appear extra long, so go for somewhat larger sunglasses. Give pilot shades a shot.

Square: strong-jaw types should try to draw attention upward with curvy, top-heavy frames to soften your look a bit. We bet you’d look sharp in some aviators. 

Heart-shaped / Triangle: offset a wide forehead with rimless, narrow frames which are wider at the top than the bottom. Try a pair of classic Raybans for a hip, stylish look.

After you decide which style will complement your face, think about where you’ll be wearing them. Do you wear a suit to work every day or are you a certified beach bum? Invest in sunglasses which will fit your style AND lifestyle. And don’t forget to bring your old pair of designer sunglasses with you to Well Suited. We’ll sell your like-new shades for cash, so you can trade up 100% guilt-free.

Loads of our favorite love stories are all about second chances: 

The one with the woman who grieved about a Dolce and Gabbana satin blouse she adored from afar in Barney’s display window, but found love again when the same top emerged from a rack at My Sister’s Closet for 80% off retail the next season. 

Then there’s the girl who tried on a gorgeous pair of Prada platform pumps at Bergdorf’s when they cost $850, then rekindled their romance when she snapped them up at My Sister’s Closet a few months later for $145. 

C'est magnifique! 

But, alas, for every resale story happy-ever-after there’s another tale of tragic love lost. Many women who lust after designer clothing without the expensive department store prices can tell at least one horror story of a romance gone wrong, in which dishonesty and deception lead to a broken heart. Few woes in life are more dreadful than thinking you’ve found the deal of a lifetime, only to later realize you’ve just purchased a fake designer handbag. 

Ladies, don’t let it happen to you.

Follow these three tips from Arizona and San Diego consignment store My Sister’s Closet – your source for the most fabulously chic and thrifty designer clothing on the market – to spot a cheating handbag from a mile away.

•  Know the signs: methodically scrutinize the stitching, tags, material, and logos on the bag. Any indication that this bag is poorly, cheaply made is a deal breaker, ladies. Red flags include slanted or uneven stitching; cheap interior lining; color disparity; missing or misspelled labels; and zippers which don’t glide like butter.

•  Examine the original: head to a distinguished store where you can get your hands on what you’re absolutely sure is the real deal.  Carefully analyze every stitch and trimming of the specific bag you’re interested in until you’d know it with your eyes closed. Learn to recognize the real deal and you’ll never be had again.

•  Don’t leave it to chance: consign and buy at My Sister’s Closet! Stay away from ebay...The biggest source of fake bags in the country. We do our best to keep the fakes off our shelves by constantly training our staff and working with industry experts to authenticate all bags, jewelry and clothing.

At My Sister’s Closet and Well Suited, we’re dedicated to providing you the highest quality shopping experience possible, from the moment you approach the building to the instant you exit the door, arms lined with shopping bags full of gorgeous goodies. That’s why we’re so selective when accepting items for consignment - to ensure our customers get to choose from the chicest selection possible. 

Before we got wise and learned to sell designer clothes in San Diego and Phoenix, we had a love/hate relationship with our bloated, overstuffed closets. Sure, it delighted us to rediscover that adorable yellow Miu Miu clutch we forgot we had! But we passionately loathed the frantic search through a mountain of laundry for our second David Yurman earring, cursing the clock and begging the jewelry genie to magically materialize.  We never really thought of our shopping habit as a problem, but eventually we had to face facts – we just had too much stuff!

Sound familiar? Don’t despair – we found a fabulous solution to your problem. Instead of closet-stuffing (I mean, really. What would your mom say?), bring us your old threads! Sell designer clothing in San Diego and Phoenix at My Sister’s Closet and Well Suited, and only hang onto your favorite items and a handful of closet essentials forever. Get cash or credit for your next shopping spree – it’s simple! Bring in your designer items and we’ll sell them to earn you cash as soon as the sale closes. We accept seasonally appropriate men's and women's designer clothing every day during normal business hours, no appointment necessary. Hang on to the essentials, and consign the rest!

But don’t sell us everything – basic closet staples are worth keeping:

· Form fitting, quality LBD

· Colorful sundress

· Neutral cocktail dress

· Dark party dress

· Casual everyday dress

· Tailored pencil skirt

· Neutral chino slacks

· Neutral dress shorts

· Casual jean shorts

· Flattering dark wash jeans

· Dark and light camisole

· Pinstripe oxford

· Light and dark blouse

· Dark neutral party top

· Knit cardigan

· Cashmere sweatet

· Neutral and colorful cardigan

Don’t leave your closet stuffed with trendy items – only hang on to the must-haves. These classics will never go out of style, so invest in quality items. When you’re ready to say goodbye, head into our Phoenix and San Diego stores to sell your old designer clothing. Trust us – your closet will thank you!

Do you long for a sleek Coach purse? Or how about a brightly colored Louis Vuitton tote? Designer handbags can be a fantastic purchase, but the prices they demand are steep. In fact, never before have prices been so high for designer purses and totes.

What is an aspiring fashionista to do? She should start exploring her local consignment shops for gently used designer handbags. Consignment boutiques carry a vast array of the latest, gently used designer handbags. Scan your Yellow Pages and visit a few consignment shops to get an idea of what is available in your area. Some consignment shops specialize in vintage designer bags from the likes of Chanel, and Dooney and Bourke. Others carry only the latest fashions in designer handbags.

What to Look For in a Designer Handbag
When purchasing a designer handbag, examine it closely to ensure you are getting a good deal. Make sure the bag is authentic and doesn't reveal any flaws. The leather should be firm and even-colored. It should not show signs of fading or cracking. Zippers should close without pulling and straps should be firmly affixed the the body of the purse. In order to ascertain that your designer purse is indeed authentic, look for the following tell-tale signs of a counterfeit product:

• Logos should be firmly affixed.
•  Top stitching should be tight and straight.
• Leather should be firm and without discoloration or fading.
• The country-of-origin tag should not say Taiwan or China.

Repairing Minor Flaws in a Designer Handbag
So you've found the perfect, gently-used designer handbag, but it has a few flaws. It may require a few minor repairs or a bit of cleaning. Don't shy away from a great deal because of minor flaws. Instead consider the following quick fixes:

 Ink stains can be removed from lightly colored purses with a dab of hydrogen peroxide. Be careful with using hydrogen peroxide with colored purses; the peroxide can discolor them.

• Holes in leather items can be repaired with patches. Just even out the surfaces of the hole and trace it on a piece of paper. Use that piece of paper as the pattern for the patch. Cut out the patch and insert it carefully into the hole, using garment glue to hold it securely.
• Snags on a leather purse can be repaired using clear nail polish. Do not use clear nail polish on suede items, however.
• Leather conditioner can be used to remove scratches and scuffs on leather bags. If the leather polish fails to remove the scratch, use show polish to remove any remaining imperfections.
• Repairing minor flaws like broken straps can be done at your local leather repair shop. Broken zippers can likewise be repaired by a shop that specializes in leather goods and clothes.

Selling Your Designer Handbags on Consignment
Your local consignment shop can also be a great place to drop off those designer handbags you no longer need, allowing you to free up space in your closet for future purchases. Most consignment boutiques will either pay you directly or offer to take the item on consignment. When a consignment shop opts to take an item on consignment and the item sells, you will receive a percentage of the sale -- usually somewhere between 30 and 50 percent. If your handbag does not sell after 90 days the shop may offer to donate it to charity. You will then receive a receipt for tax purposes.

Consigning Designer Handbags Online
If you decide to consign your designer handbags online make sure your photographs accurately represent the handbag. Focus your camera on one handbag at a time and use software like Adobe Photoshop or Roxio PhotoShow to sharpen images and increase contrast. When writing descriptions of your handbags, include as many details as possible. Note details like type of leather, color of topstitching and the design on the handbag's interior fabric. More importantly, be honest about flaws in the handbag. If the leather is scratched or torn, then include a detailed description of the damage in your discussion of the product. Your customers will appreciate your honesty.

Whether you decide to buy only designer handbags on consignment, or you aspire to take your passion a step further by consigning them as well, you'll enjoy a fun and rewarding experience.

Designer shoes' many attractions are well established. The influence of such popular entertainments as Sex and the City and Confessions of a Shopaholic on the minds of women across the globe have linked designer shoes with notions of happiness. But the thrill of being able to pay a few hundred dollars for a pair of Manolo Blahnik pumps without batting an eye is something too few women get to experience.

This is not to say, however, that this thrill is entirely out of reach for ordinary working women. Buying designer women's shoes on consignment is one way to indulge champagne tastes while sticking to a beer budget. You can snag haute couture footwear at discounted prices.

Make consignment shopping a habit. You're more likely to find just the right women's designer shoes at just the right price if you visit a few consignment shops regularly.

How to Spot Quality Women's Designer Shoes
You'll need a discerning eye to find the best women's designer shoes at the best prices. A few simple tips will help you spot the best consignment bargains -- as well as any knock-offs masquerading as the real deal.

Construction. The best shoes are made entirely of leather. Women's designer shoe makers will generally indicate all leather construction with an insignia stating this fact. Beware of shoes having only leather uppers, or, worse, no leather construction at all. These generally indicate inferior quality.

Quality of the leather. Women's designer shoe leather should be thick yet supple. If the leather feels thin or stiff, it's of poor quality.

Stitching and seams. Designer women's pumps should have no seam at the instep. The leather of designer women's shoes of any sort should be stitched together, never glued.

Shoe interior. The inside of designer women's shoes should have no ridges, bumps or bulges. Inside seams should never turn outward.

Heels, outer soles and inner soles. Heels, outer soles and inner soles should not show excessive wear. Wear to these portions of shoes need not be a deal breaker. They can be replaced. The cost of replacement should, however, factor into the amount you're willing to pay for the pair of shoes.

Finding the Right Fit
Of course, inspecting shoes for quality of construction is just part of the equation when it comes to buying designer women's shoes on consignment. The real bonding with your shoes begins when you try them on. These few simple guidelines will help you find the best fit:

• Your toes should not reach the tip of the shoe. There should be at least half of an inch between the end of your big toe and the end of the shoe.
• Your toes shoes flex easily in the shoe's toe box.
• Your heel should fit snugly. Any slippage around your heel as you walk means the shoes are too big.
• Your ankle should be snugly nestled if you're trying on women's designer boots. Any slippage around the ankle as you walk means an ill-fitting pair of boots.

Be sure to take sufficient time to walk about in the shoes you're trying on, taking several laps around the sales floor if you need to. This will give you a better sense as to how they'll feel were you to wear them under ordinary circumstances.

Keep in mind that feet have a tendency to swell as the day progresses. It's smart, then, to confine your shoe shopping to the late afternoon or evening in order to find the most precise fit.

Caring for Women's Designer Shoes Bought on Consignment
Once you get your designer shoes home, you'll want to take proper care of them. This way you're sure not only to get long use out of them, but to preserve their great looks as well. The following suggestions will help keep your women's designer shoes looking and fitting great:

Invest in a pair of shoes trees. Regular use of shoe trees will help shoes retain their shape against the wear and tear of daily use.

Polish shoes regularly. Wax or cream polish not only refresh the shoes' color, but keep shoe leather clean and supple.

Treat patent leather shoes with petroleum jelly. Petroleum jelly returns luster to the leather. (Just be sure to wipe any excess jelly off your shoes before wearing them.)

Use a white pencil eraser to remove blemishes from suede shoes. If the pencil eraser doesn't work, try some fine-grit sandpaper.

Avoid wearing a pair of shoes two days in a row. Even in cool conditions feet have a tendency to sweat. Keeping shoes out of fashion rotation for two days allows them the airing they need to dry.

Have a shoe repairer install heel and toe taps on your shoes as soon after purchase as possible. Heel and toe taps will keep you from having to replace the entire heel in the future.

Buy shoes roomy enough to accommodate cushioning insoles. Cushioning insoles prevent wear to the insides of the shoes, and prevent shoes from acquiring unpleasant odors -- things which are vitally important if you plan to resell the shoes at some future time.

Buying Women’s Shoes on Consignment: The Price Is Right!
Millions of women have discovered that looking uptown doesn’t mean risking falling into skid row. Buying designer women’s shoes on consignment affords you the financial freedom to purchase the hottest new pumps from Salvatore Ferragamo, the jazziest new boots from Bruno Magli or the sexiest new espadrilles from Prada. In fact, buying women’s designer shoes from consignment shops can often be a thrilling adventure, because you’re never sure just what kind of shoes you’ll find. Consignment shops offer a variety of labels and styles, many of which are rarely found in traditional department stores. This makes buying designer shoes from a consignment shop a sound financial as well as sartorial investment.

You've just found a beautiful antique cabinet at a neighborhood garage sale. You got it at a bargain and are considering selling it on consignment. There's only one problem: it's in need of some minor repairs. Don't be discouraged by this discovery. You only need to follow a few simple rules for deciding which pieces of furniture are worthy of repair and how to go about repairing them.

How to Evaluate a Piece of Furniture
Before you even purchase a piece of antique furniture, you need to consider if the furniture is worth repairing. Take a few moments and ask yourself the following questions:

Do you like the piece?

Do you think you can make a considerable profit on it through resale?

How much do you think the furniture will be worth after it is restored?

Do you have the time to make significant repairs, should any be required?

Will the piece be in resalable condition after the repairs are made?

Take the time to visit a few consignment shops that specialize in antique furniture. Ask the consignment shop owner about what pieces of antique furniture are currently in demand. Examine the prices of furniture that resembled the pieces you are considering restoring.

Common Repairs in Antique Furniture
Once you invest in a few pieces of antique furniture, it will be likely that you will have to make some repairs. For instance, antique mirrors will frequently need their glass replaced. But if the glass is old--which is indicated by the presence of bubbles or waviness--then replacing it might prove difficult. Also, look at the silvering on the backside of the mirror; if it has deteriorated, then consider replacing it. With a chest of drawers, check the see that the drawers are in working order. Examine drawer runners to make sure they are not split or excessively worn. Check for lose legs in chairs, and splits in tables and cabinet sides. And don't forget to check for warped wood: Sometimes minor warping in acceptable on very old pieces of antique furniture, but warping on newer pieces is something that should be repaired.

Bad Repairs, Missing Parts and Loose Veneer: More Minor Repairs in Antique Furniture
Repairs can sometimes cause more harm than good. Check your piece of antique furniture for inexpertly executed repairs. Bad repairs can result in a structurally unsound piece of furniture, causing tables and chairs to collapse without notice. Also, examine antique furniture for missing parts, especially in more ornate pieces. Look for missing stretchers or rungs on chairs, and check all carvings closely in case a piece has been broken off. Finally, loose veneer is a common flaw in antique furniture, and one that is hard to spot. Veneer can often appeared firmly affixed to furniture when, in reality, it is quite loose. Lightly tap the veneer on your antique furniture to see if it is sounds hollow. If it does, then the veneer is lose and needs to be repaired.

Tips for Cleaning Up Antique Furniture
If your piece of antique furniture is in need of only minor cleaning, try the following tips for cleaning your antique furniture:

•  Check for mildew on wooden furniture. Clean any mildew off with one cup water mixed with one tablespoon bleach and one tablespoon dish washing detergent.
•  Look for tarnished brass handles on trunks and dressers. Remove tarnish with a paste comprised on equal parts salt, flour and vinegar. Rub on brass with a soft cloth, and then rinse completely. Shine with a soft cloth.
• Remove any unpleasant odors from chest of drawers or armoirs with cat litter or baking soda.
•  Wash ceramics with soap and water only. But be careful: wipe gently with a soft cloth if the pieces are damaged.
•  Remove adhesive or tape with lemon juice.
•  Buff antique ivory with a woolen cloth.
•  Lubricate and clean antique clocks every five years.
•  Clean glass with an iridescent finish with cool water and a bit of mild soap.
• Polish carved furniture with paste wax applied to a stenciling brush, and buff using a show brush. You will be able to reach nooks and crannies that way.

Once they've decided on the pieces they want for their inventory, the consignment shop will either give you the money for your furniture upfront, or offer to take it on consignment, giving you a percentage of the sale. Pricing will be determined by the style, condition, and original sale price. If your furniture does not sell within a set period of time, usually 90 days, the consignment shop will offer to donate your furniture to a local charity. You will be offered a receipt for tax purposes. You can also pick up your furniture from the consignment shop, bringing it home again for future resale.

Creating a Safe Work Space for Furniture Repair
In order to more effectively repair and restore your furniture, it is important that you have a safe work space. Follow these four suggestions for creating a safe work space for furniture repair:

1. Be aware of fire hazards. Avoid smoking in your workspace, and check that all equipment capable of producing sparks are turned off before leaving the work space. Also, make sure you have a fire extinguisher in your work space.
2. Throw away old rags, which may be contaminated with dangerous chemicals.
3. Store chemicals away from heat and flame. Make sure all containers containing chemicals are properly labeled.
4. Be environmentally responsible. Dispose of all chemicals properly by taking them to the appropriate hazardous waste disposal units.

Consigning Antique Furniture: A Rewarding Hobby
Taking the time to properly restore your antique furniture for consignment can result in significant rewards. You'll enjoy the process involved in antique furniture restoration and reap a tidy profit when you bring your restored piece to your local consignment shop.

Perhaps you’ve inherited a Chippendale escritoire from a distant relative but can’t find a place for it among all your cherished art deco pieces. Or maybe you’ve collected Tiffany lamps in the past, but recently your tastes have shifted to Majolica pottery. If either one of these scenarios describes you, then you should consider consigning your antique furnishings. Consigning antique furnishings is a fun and rewarding way to indulge an interest in antiques. And you may just realize a tidy profit in the bargain.

Before you decide which pieces of antique furniture to consign, visit a few consignment shops to determine what kind of furniture they are interested in. Does the shop specialize in twentieth-century American vintage furnishings? Or does it feature only Victorian or Shaker household goods? Does the consignment shop carry large pieces, such as cabinets and tables, or only small goods like appliances and lamps? It is important that you do the necessary reconnaissance of visiting a shop before bringing in photographs of the furniture you want to consign, because you’ll save yourself a lot time if you know the particular preferences of the consignment shops you plan on approaching.

Tips for Restoring Antique Furniture for Consignment

Once you’ve found a consignment shop that you think is likely to take your antique furniture, go home and examine your furniture for any flaws. The following imperfections are the most common sort:

• Mildew on wooden furniture. Clean any mildew off with one cup water mixed with one tablespoon bleach and one tablespoon dish washing detergent.
• Tarnished brass handles on trunks and dressers. Remove tarnish with a paste composed of equal parts salt, flour and vinegar. Rub on brass with a soft cloth, and then rinse completely. Shine with a soft cloth.
• Unpleasant odors from chest of drawers or armoirs. Remove odors with cat litter or baking soda.
• Discoloration of ceramics. Remove discoloration with soap and water only. But be careful: wipe gently with a soft cloth if the pieces are damaged.
• Odd bits of adhesive or tape. Remove adhesive or tape with lemon juice.
• Discoloration of ivory. Buff discolored antique ivory with a woolen cloth.
• Stuck or frozen clock parts. Lubricate and clean antique clocks every five years.
• Dirty glass surfaces. Clean glass surfaces to an irradescent finish with cool water and a bit of mild soap.
• Dull furniture finish. Polish carved furniture with paste wax applied to a stenciling brush and buff using a show brush. You will be able to reach nooks and crannies with this method.

Once the consignment shop decides on the furnishings of yours they want for their inventory, they will either give you the money for your antique items upfront, or offer to take them on consignment, in which you agree to a percentage (usually 30 to 50 percent) of the sale. Style, condition, and original sale price all factor in the determination of the consignment sale price. If, however, your antique item fails to sell within a set period of time (typically 90 days), the consignment shop will offer to donate it to a local charity, in which case they will provide you with a receipt for tax purposes. You can, of course, simply elect to take your antique item home to sell on consignment again in the future.

Selling Antique Furniture Online: Five Rules for Effective Photographs

You can also sell your antique furniture online. Should you decided to consign your antique furniture online, make sure to post high-quality photographs to best represent your furniture. Follow these five rules to ensure you produce effective photographs for selling your antique furniture:

1. Take memorable, eye-catching photographs. That is, take pictures of only one antique piece at a time, and make sure the piece takes up the majority of the photograph, cropping out any excess space in the frame.
2. Lower yourself to the level of your furniture for best effect, squatting or kneeling if necessary. Make sure the furniture has been thoroughly polished and cleaned, and remove any items that may be resting on the top of dressers, tables and so on.
3. Avoid using an indoor flash on furniture with flat surfaces, like tables and chests of drawers, as the flash produces distracting reflections.
4. Zoom in on details, especially if the antique item in question is ornate. Take pictures of inlaid handles, carved feet, and jeweled detailing.
5. Take multiple pictures of any one piece in order to ensure that you have at least a couple high-quality pictures with which to work.

When writing descriptions of your antique furnishings for an online consignment shop, include as many details as possible. If a table or dresser has “style,” explain exactly what type of style it has. Does it possess unique qualities, such as guilded or brass detailing? Is the piece of furniture in question fashioned from a rare or expensive type of wood like black walnut or mahogany? Make sure to offer as many details of your antique item’s splendors as you think necessary to cinch the deal. Also, list any flaws the antique piece might have, such as loose joints, nicks or scratches. Being as exhaustive as possible in online descriptions will help ensure that your consignment item will attract the greatest number of potential buyers.

Selling your antique furniture on consignment can be a fun and rewarding hobby, especially if you take care to educate yourself about antique furnishings. Your local library, with its numerous books on antiques, is a fantastic resource in this regard; and your local bookshop has many print sources on antiques as well. Familiarity with the finer points of identifying and selling antique furnishings will help you to market successfully your antiques to consignment shops, whether they be brick-and-mortar or online. Consigning antique furniture is such a fascinating and profitable hobby that you may just find yourself hunting for colonial cabinets or Edwardian chiffoniers to consign.