It’s New to Us by Jean Stratton

BEST BARGAINS: “Every weekday, we have 200 new items on display. There is tremendous turnover.” Katie McFarlane, assistant manager of Greene Street Consignment, is shown with a never-worn Banana Republic black dress. Also available in other colors, it is $18 at the new consignment shop.

Newly Opened Greene Street Consignment Offers Bargains on Previously-Owned Clothes

Recycling is one of the best things we can do for the environment, and this is true in clothing as well as in so many other areas. Now, you can be “green” by visiting Greene Street Consignment at 162 Nassau Street.

The spacious store, formerly the location of Nassau Interiors, is filled with merchandise and shoppers. Opened in March, it has already become a very popular stop for customers looking for good quality clothes and accessories at bargain prices.

“The economy is a real factor,” points out assistant manager Katie McFarlane. “People say they are so glad that we’re here. They thank us for being here. We get people of all ages and backgrounds. Lots of Princeton University students and high school students, too — they think the prices are great. It’s fun for them to come in and get a terrific deal.

“We really have a great following already, with lots of regulars coming in every week. It actually becomes a community thing. People get to know each other. And they’re not only from Princeton; they’re coming from West Windsor, Plainsboro, and New Brunswick, as well as other places.”

Nice “Vibe”

The Princeton store is the fourth Greene Street Consignment shop owned by Lynne and Donna Mastrilli. Others are in Philadelphia, Bryn Mawr, Pa., and Lambertville.

“Lynne and Donna want the shop to have a nice ‘vibe’, so people can have a good experience,” says Ms. McFarlane. “They love fashion, and are very knowledgeable about it. Fashion is their life!”

Customers will find an extensive selection of men’s and women’s clothes and accessories. Everything must be in excellent condition, up-to-date, with items generally not more than two years old. The wide variety of styles includes lines from Old Navy, Gap, and Banana Republic as well as high-end choices, such as Jill Stuart, Ferragamo, Gucci, and Versace.

Dresses, sportswear, jeans, jackets, blouses, halter tops, T-shirts, skirts, and bathing suits are conveniently arranged with like items together, and women’s sizes are from zero to 16. Dresses are big sellers now, as are shoes, and the latter selection is extensive, from sandals to stiletto heels. “We have some high-end shoes and handbags, and people really love these,” reports Ms. McFarlane.

Clearance Section

“We’re focusing on summer now, and we also have a clearance section. Prices vary, with earrings from $6, and many clothes in the $16, $18, and $20 range.”

Prom dresses are available seasonally, she adds, but the shop does not carry a bridal selection, mother-of-the-bride/groom dresses, or maternity clothes.

Jewelry is always in demand, with earrings, bracelets, and necklaces all popular, and there is also antique jewelry.

Belts, scarves, and hats are available, and there are several fitting rooms. As Ms. McFarlane notes: “We recommend that people try things on because sales are final.”

A men’s section, which is also popular, features a full range of items, including dress shirts, sports shirts, jeans, trousers, shorts, sweaters, jackets, shoes and belts.

Consignments are accepted daily, with no appointments necessary. A minimum of 10 is accepted, and there is no maximum. Items should be folded, not on hangers. Proceeds from the sale are split 60 percent (Greene Street)-40 percent (consignor), and there is no yearly fee. Items are kept 60 days, and if they are sold, payment will made at the end of that time. If not sold, they can be returned or donated to HomeFront.

Perfect Item

Pricing is determined in accordance with condition, labels, style, season, and consignors will be informed within the same day as to acceptance, says Ms. McFarlane. “We’ve probably had more than 150 consignors already, with many bringing in more things again.

“I like to see customers find the perfect item,” she adds. “It can be something they’ve never seen before and think is fun. It’s great to see them smiling and say, ‘Wow! What a super buy!’ They really have fun here. There have been more customers than we even expected. People came in the first day — they were waiting for us. And they keep coming all the time. We have lots of regulars because we have new things every day, and they want to see the latest.”

Customers also enjoy the inviting atmosphere, with its spacious setting, attractive displays, helpful service, and the jazz and popular standards playing in the background. Most people take plenty of time to browse and enjoy this unique shopping experience.

Hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, Saturday 10 to 9., Sunday 11 to 6. (609) 924-1990. Website: www.greenestreetconsignment.com.

Return to Top | Go to Next Story