“Hey mom, look at me!” or rather “Look at my closet with all those dresses hanging there with tags still on!” If you’ve ever had one of those moments, and have shuddered at the thought of how much you’ve spent on barely worn kids’ togs, you’re not alone. Kiddie consignment shops in Bergen County, NJ and beyond are on the rise. And we’ve found the perfect home for those gently used (or never worn) items- as well as places you can score kiddie couture for less.
Newcomer Taralynn’s Closet (10 South Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, 201-754-8272)
is owned by a local mom who got frustrated in watching all those gently used items go to waste. Right now the store is accepting drop in consigners on Tuesdays and the other days of the week you need to make an appointment. First time consigners should bring their top 15 best items then if you are accepted then you can drop off more items. Your clothing is put into a computer system, you get a log on and access code so you can see what sells. You get 40% of the selling price in cash or 60% in store credit after 60 days. She is looking for high end items (name brands - Ralph Lauren, Juicy Couture, Jacadi, etc.) so leave the Old Navy and Gap at home.
Score: An adorable Lilly Pulitzer dress (worn but no stains or rips) for $17
Merry Go Round (166 Paris Avenue, Northvale, 201-767-3535) was doing consigning before it even became “trendy”. Serving the area for over 30 years, they carry children’s clothing and toys, as well as adult sportswear and couture. They pay consigners 50% of the sale price and will only accept items in mint condition. Any unsold items will be donated to charity or can be picked up within 7 days. Kid’s brands include Juicy, Ed Hardy, Janie & Jack, Flowers by Zoe, and Ralph Lauren.
Score: A Burberry Kids Barn Jacket for $30
Gingerbread Consignment Shop (228 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park, 201-652-2814) is a place where patience will award you some GREAT finds. The clothes are clean and the prices are incredible. The owner truly wants the clothes to find good homes and she won’t sell or accept anything that is dirty/stained or too worn. You can bring any brands here (top 15-20 at first then if you are accepted you can drop off others) but make sure they are in good condition. She sells adults and children’s clothing but from new consigners she is accepting ONLY children’s clothing. You get 40% of the selling price - you will be sent a check at the end of each season. If your items do not sell at the end of the season, they will be donated to charity.
Score: Two pairs of Children’s Lilly Pulitzer shorts, one $7 the other $9.
If you are heading to the city…..
Clementine’s Consignment (2 Washington Square South, New York City, (212) 228-9333) was voted “Best Kids Consignment Store” by New York Magazine. This cozy upscale boutique only does consignment and carries luxury lines like Oilily, Bonpoint, Petit Bateau, Liz Lange Collection and Isabella Oliver. It’s worth the trip if you have a good amount of luxury brand clothing you want to unload at good prices because they are a premier shopping destination for savvy city moms. They return 40% to consigners and sell your items seasonally. You can “drop and run” and they will email you a list with suggested retail prices within a week of dropoff.
Score: A Bonpoint Dress for Fall $40
Shout out to contributing editor Carla Sullivan, Founder of Minimunchers.com (and bigtime consignment shopper) for her help with this feature.
To learn more about the fashion industry check out these guides!
