TOP 3 NYC CONSIGNMENT STORES

I think at this point, it is obvious I enjoy the occasional shopping trip. Finding an item you never knew you wanted is great, but finding it on sale is better:) While living here the past 5 years I have found amazing products at deep discounts through clearance, markdowns, but also at consignment shops. That Chanel bag I'm toting in this pic- bought at a consignment store in the city...

Throughout my time in NYC I have scoured the island of Manhattan (and occasionally Brooklyn) in my quest for the best consignment shops the city has to offer. I've shopped Ina, spent time at Second Time Around and peaked through Michael's. My friends would claim that I am an expert in this shopping arena of buying high-end designer items at a fraction of the price. In all of my shopping experiences, the top three stores all reside in the East Village and are within steps from one another.

1. Tokio 7

The mecca of downtown cool and hidden chic product, this is the ultimate in luxury consignment. Editors, stylists and buyers are frequent fans and consignors of this famed shop. I personally have never consigned here, so I am not aware of the rules, but I can guarantee you will find amazing pieces. If you were searching for a current boucle Chanel jacket, or the Rick Owens leather vest from last season, look no further than this spot.

Overview:

Price: $$$$

Location: 7th and 2nd, East Village

Clientele: Stylists, Editors, Downtown Fashionistas

Expect to find: Acne Studios Wedges, JW Anderson Sweaters, Proenza Schouler Tees

http://tokio7.net/

2. Tokyo Joe's

Not to be confused with Tokio 7 (they share no relation), this is a smaller, more refined store than the former. Don't be fooled for its closet size square footage – the shop houses a wide array of goodies. Looking for Louis Vuitton luggage or a Chanel wallet?  This is where to score those finds. The customer service is on the low end, so don't expect any help here. Other than that, it is one of my favorite treasures in the city. Don't forget to sneak a peak at the back where long gowns and formal dresses hang on the walls. I once saw a current season Gucci gown priced at $450.

Overview:

Price: $$-$$$

Location: 11th and 1st, East Village

Clientele: Tourists, NYU Fashion Mavens, Downtown Moms

Expect to find: Rag and Bone Leather Jackets, Isabel Marant Blouses, Zimmermann Dresses

http://nymag.com/listings/stores/tokyo-joe/

3. Buffalo Exchange

Most consignors are well aware of this national chain. Buffalo Exchange has stores across the nation, but is it this East Village gem that wins the medal in my books. I always manage to find some great items here. While the assortment is nowhere as luxurious as the two former, the racks reflect the East Villages' cool, downtown vibes. I'm almost certain this is where NYU fashion focused students consign their Bergdorf's and Barney's duds after a finished semester.

https://www.buffaloexchange.com/

Overview:

Price: $$

Location: 11th and 1st, East Village

Clientele: Students, Foreigners, Random Passerby

Expect to find: Alexander Wang Tops, Helmut Lang Jackets, Rebecca Minkoff Booties

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