Resale Avenue to Fashion : Now male clothes hounds can join women in the savings at The Place.
Many fashion-conscious women on limited budgets probably know about The Place, one of the pio neer resale stores in Southern California. For more than 30 years, those who want to look richer than they are have ridden the resale avenue to fashion success. The Place is one of the best consignment stores in town, with a vast collection of the top names in haute couture, along with some new merchandise.
While checking out their sale (which goes through the end of February) and seeing their new men’s department, I couldn’t resist a foray through a rack of new Judith Ann heavily beaded jackets and coats. One three-quarter-length jacket in a spectrum of subtle blues and greens was originally $600. The regular price at The Place was $325, but on sale, it’s $160.
But most of the inventory has been previously owned, meticulously maintained and divinely priced. A stunning suit by Moschino (size 10)--a red wool jacket with a black velvet collar, cuffs, buttons and skirt--originally listed for $2,500. The before-sale resale price was $395, but on sale, it’s $230.
Owner Joyce Brock says male clothes hounds or their significant others have been asking her for years to open a men’s resale department. When Jay Leno offered his wardrobe (size 44 long), Brock decided to take the plunge. She bought liquidated new stock from Ron Ross and Fred Hayman, and started building the men’s department. She is adding resale wardrobes from celebrities every week.
Not too much is left from Leno’s offerings, although a cashmere sport coat from Fred Hayman that Brock says was Leno’s was marked $150. It sold new for around $900.
Only top designer names grace the labels. Armani heads the parade with pieces from Zegna, Hugo Boss, Canelli, Ralph Lauren Polo, Gucci, Valentino, Ungaro and Lanvin that are in perfect shape and a fraction of the original cost. Offerings from such pricey retailers as Bijan, Brooks Brothers, Carroll & Co. and Fred Hayman are also here.
Suits and sport coats fill most of the racks, and I was particularly impressed with the shirt selection after spotting a $150 Turnbull & Asser shirt in a fine cotton that looked new for $45.
This is a great way to own a man’s handsome double-breasted, 100% wool Ungaro sport coat featured in a fashion ad for $1,400. Here, it’s $250.
The styles for men and women are current. Except for a few Brooks Brothers suits, expect pleats in the pants, gentlemen.
Where and When What: The Place. Location: 8820 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Westchester. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays. Cards: American Express, MasterCard, Visa. Call: (310) 645-1539.
