Retail Watch: Consignment Comes Roundabout

If the word "consignment" conjures images of stuffy warehouses, sloppily arranged old clothes and curt salespeople, then Roundabout will change your perspective. This designer consignment shop is stocked with exclusively high-end designer merchandise from major labels such as Dolce & Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli, Prada and Chanel, as well as newer designers such as 3.1 Phillip Lim, Wayne, Mayle and Alexander Wang. Located just off Madison Avenue, Roundabout is definitely not out of place.

Owner Laurie Perren has been in the consignment business since 1989, when she opened the first Roundabout in Westport, Connecticut. Since then, she has opened two other Connecticut locations as well as the Manhattan shop, which just opened in July. "We were picking up consignments about three times a week from Manhattan, and it kind of made sense [to open a store there]. Because our consigners are here, we thought it would be more convenient," Perren explains.

Roundabout is unique in that while two-thirds of the merchandise is mint-condition consignment from individuals, the other third is new and never worn. By acquiring new clothing from sample sales and closeouts, Roundabout is able to offer 60-70% off retail for new clothing, while consignment pieces are usually about 60-75% off retail price. The store's boutique-style atmosphere also sets it apart from other consignment shops. "We merchandise the store like a regular boutique. We don't merchandise like a resale store. It's a beautiful environment [and on] street level, so no more schlepping upstairs," says Perren.

With pieces coming from the closets of some of Manhattan's most stylish women, it's no surprise that business is booming. Of consignment's inherent draw, Perren observes: "Consignment is a great way to make some decent turnaround on the clothes that you don't wear anymore. Clothes are not like wine—they don't get better with age. If you have something you haven't worn this season, chances are you're not going to wear it next season. Better to turn it over while you can." Merry-go-Roundabout, indeed.

Shop address: 31 East 72nd Street, New York
Tel: 646.755.8009

Rebecca Pattiz