Shop at Swap

Swap Boutique—the best designer consignment store in New Orleans, hands down. Actually, in my life, I’ve never been to a better store that sells used clothing. This little shop at 7716 Maple Street is the only place I go anymore, especially when I want to avoid the mall. Walking into this little place, you’d never know it was mostly second-hand, though there is quite a bit of new clothing and shoes that are overstock from local boutiques.

They only take items in near perfect condition and only accept vintage and current things that reflect today’s trends. The best part is that it’s high-end items, often new with tags, that I could never afford otherwise--$400 Diane Von Furstenberg dresses for $100, and $650 Chloe shoes for under $90! The lowest brand they take is Banana Republic; I’ve stocked up on $100 cardigans for $30 a pop.

The owner is a really wonderful woman named Michelle Reinhardt who started the store with the philosophy of recycling. She wants to bring fashion into the green movement, and I can see why her clients are so loyal—she genuinely wants the women who shop there to be happy and confident with their appearance. The staff goes out of their way to help customers find what they’re looking for, and it’s always fun to shop in such a warm atmosphere.

Consigners have to make appointments, but they can bring in any amount of items. If Swap decides to sell them, the items are sold at 30% of the retail price and the consigners can make 40% commission in cash or 50% commission in store credit. There’s also a super cute Swap for Kids store next door.

For locals and tourists alike, this is a must-see stop for shopping. It’s incredible what you’ll find—I never leave empty-handed because everything goes on sale after 30 days. The markdowns get to 60% off; I definitely have my eye on a sequined Tory Burch dress and Prada shoes that I can only hope other people are blind to!

http://www.swapboutique.com/

*Photo Credit: http://www.swapboutique.com/consign.html