The Resale Boutique: A Saline Success Story

Jamie Westcott is finally seeing the fruits of her labor, after making the tough decision to relocate her shop to downtown Saline.  The Resale Boutique, formerly located in Chelsea, opened in Saline in December of 2008. 

“We’ve more than doubled our business since we’ve moved here,” Westcott said.  “October and November 2010 were record breaking (sales) months for us.”

The Resale Boutique is not a typical used clothing store.

“I like to get creative,“ Westcott said. 

She describes her shop as “vintage” and eclectic with a kind of old-Hollywood glam, but trendy and current for all wardrobe styles. It is warm and retro, with lots of sparkly baubles, and an olive-colored, crushed velvet settee and side chairs to relax in while shopping. 

When asked if she would ever sell the settee, Westcott laughed and said hesitantly, “no, I kind of get attached to some of the furniture."

Old chairs hang on walls alongside antique prints, and perfectly thrown together outfits are displayed throughout the store.

Unlike some resale stores, The Resale Boutique is seasonal and keeps up with trends. They are currently accepting spring merchandise on consignment, by appointment only. 

“We are looking for handbags, shoes, jewelry and one of a kind, unique items,” Westcott said.  She has had to add a full-time staff member to her schedule to keep up with demand. 

Stephanie Merkel, an employee since August 2010, commented while she worked on a jewelry display.

“I like meeting different customers as well as getting to know the familiar faces,”  she said,  “and there aren’t words to describe what it’s like to work for Jamie (Westcott)."  

Westcott acknowledges that returning customers are key to her business and added, “My customers love Stephanie!” 

Westcott and Merkel share their responsibilities with one other part-time staffer.

The Resale Boutique has a newly designed website (www.theresaleboutique.com) to complement its success. Customers can sign up for emails, join the Boutique Bonus Club, check the Fashion Trend Report, submit a Wish List and see merchandise currently in stock. The site also explains how consignment works, clothing and brand requirements, and how customers get paid.

When asked about future expansion or other stores, Westcott said, “The way things are going, if we could expand, I would do that.  It’s a lot of work.”  She said, “I’d like to sell online at some point, and that is a whole other machine.”

The Resale Boutique always has some kind of sale going on, and keeps a clearance center in the basement that offers 40 -70 percent off.  The store is located at 107 E. Michigan Ave. It is open seven days per week: Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.