The dreaded closet clear out. Pieces still with the tags on just waiting for that right fit inspiration. Special occasion dresses you wore once and won’t wear again. Buying your size online that’s suddenly a bit too snug or too baggy depending on the brand.
At local boutique, Clothes Mentor, owner Ellen Caldwell-Ng and her team know sourcing, reselling and shopping your closet is serious business. With a side of fun.
Ellen Caldwell-Ng
Owner & Stylist, Clothes Mentor
What is the mission behind Clothes Mentor?
“As a high-end resale shop, we’re selective on the items that we take in, they have to be in like-new condition, freshly laundered, and in market demand since we pay cash or store credit up front. And any items we decide not to take on, we can donate and deliver to our charitable partner, Clothed by Faith if you wish,” Ellen explains.
“As a buyer, you get to replace clothes that no longer serve you, in hopes of passing them on to the right next shopper.”
“I’ve wanted my own shop since college, but I had no idea how to do that, so I just folded that idea up and thought that’s never going to happen for me; but I believe that God planted that seed and that’s part of my purpose. I wasn’t ready back then, but now through my experience, I’m better equipped to run a successful business. And it’s important to me that women come in, and can find something that they feel confident in, and building a great wardrobe really can change your whole life.”
What makes Clothes Mentor unique from other resale or consignment shops?
Besides our designer selection of clothes and handbags, we also have a Personal Shopping Program, where you can fill out a style survey online, and we can shop outfits for you, and you just schedule a time you’d like to drop in and try them on. My background is in personal styling, so it’s a program that is a lot of fun for us, and for the shopper,” she says.
Can you explain the fast fashion trend, and why it’s important to know how and where your clothes are being made?
“Fast fashion refers to the mass-produced clothes from big online and in-store retailers. New pieces are created every week, items are priced low so overconsumption is encouraged, and any excess or waste heads straight to the landfill or oceans,” Ellen explains.
“We’re stewards of this Earth, and focusing on quality and ethical practices is vital for both ourselves and our planet. That’s why you’ll see so many well-made, vintage pieces still around after decades. There’s pride in their craftsmanship. And by helping pass down quality pieces, you’re helping break that cycle.”
What’s one thing you’d tell someone shopping and/or selling with Clothes Mentor for the first time?
“Give yourself enough time to browse, to look through every department, take your time and have fun with it! Bonus if you bring friends that will encourage you to try new things,” she says.
“Our location also now offers private shopping parties, and it’s a unique way to get your friends together, sell some clothes and then have the store and stylists to yourselves to shop, sip, snack and find new outfits. We’d love to have you.”
Browse their online offerings, their personal styling program or to book a private party, please visit KatyTX.ClothesMentor.com.
There’s pride in craftsmanship. And by helping pass down quality pieces, you’re helping break that cycle of waste.