The dated opinion that resale and consignment shops are “dated” needs to be checked at the door. Especially when you walk into Better Than Before (BTB) in downtown Cullman!
BTB is well stocked with high-quality, in-style clothing – and even offers its own personal shopping experience.
Owner Sonya Nix said the store was born back in 1997, when she and her husband visited a tiny resale shop in Tennessee.
“I became hooked, telling him ‘I think I can do this!’ I was 34 years old and had absolutely NO retail experience. But I guess determination makes up for ignorance and somehow, by the grace of God, we survived that first year,” she recalled.
BTB started in 700 square feet on Sportsman Lake Road, moved to a 2,500 square-foot location and eventually to its current location at 124 Fourth St. SW.
“Since then, we've expanded twice, opened a second location in Decatur and relocated and expanded that location as well,” said Nix. “We now have two showrooms totaling 16,000 square feet! Once upon a time we were a simple brick-and-mortar resale shop, but today we're more diverse than ever, offering our customers a robust website, social media options for browsing, Whatnot live auctions and 13 Facebook Lives a week!”
Nix said that, for consumers, BTB’s “Personal Shopper Experience” is incredibly popular. “The simply give us their sizes, favorite colors and fashion preferences, tell us a little about their lifestyle – and at the agreed-upon time, we have loads of style options and ensembles waiting for them to try on. This service includes hanger-to-hand service with styling suggestions, accessorizing and budget considerations.”
For consignors, she said, “The resale industry gives our neighbors a way to extend the life of their wardrobe, recoup some of their original wardrobe investment and a little ‘saving the planet’ as well! And we make it easy; we offer a convenient drop-off service for busy folks. No need to wait – they can pick up their returns or we offer a convenient charitable donation service.”
Speaking of common misconceptions about resale/consignment shopping, Nix was candid.
One is “resale shops are full of old, outdated, dirty items.”
“Not so!” she said. “BTB adheres to a strict vetting process because we want our clients to have the very best, high-quality and clean selection: no stains, tears, flaws, pet hair or odors. Consignments are carefully evaluated to eliminate any that don't meet these requirements.”
Another, she said, is “resale shops are an easy place to get burned on fake luxury items.”
“While we cannot speak for all resale shops, at BTB, we carefully evaluate all luxury items for authenticity,” Nix explained. “You can rest easy knowing your Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel and others purchased at BTB are absolutely the real deal. We guarantee authenticity or your money back!”
Last, is "’resale’ means cheap thrift and that kind of shopping takes way too long to find anything good.”
“Well first, let's not knock a good thrifting experience,” Nix laughed. “If you've got time, that's a fun treasure-hunter's way to spend a day! But that's not who we are. Because of our quality vetting process, BTB offers a totally difference experience than most ‘thrift’ stores. You'll be shopping like-new and often new-with-tags merchandise that's still within the current fashion trends. Our store is strategically laid out and organized to maximize the clients' shopping experience. It's appealing, pleasant and saves loads of time and money. The quality we offer changes the playing field.”
Students have headed back to school, and many parents and older students are still stocking up on clothing and accessories. Resale and consignment can be an outstanding option for those looking to stay within a budget, but still hit class in style.
“Going back to school can cost loads, especially if there's multiple children involved. We may not be able to do anything about those expensive school supplies, but we can make you look good for less,” said Nix. “And here's another reason to shop secondhand: the unique element. Want to see yourself six times walking down the hall at school? Shop your local big box store or boutique. Want something unique, one of a kind? Shop resale!”
Back-to-school trends this fall
- Lots of 70s-inspired fashion: Lots of mustard yellow
- Some 80s influence: Puffy, bold shoulders
- Maximalism: Bold colors, statement accessories and playful patterns
- Funky mix of preppy/athleisure: Polo shirts with athletic leggings or shorts
- Scarf prints: Matching sets, dresses and other clothing – a "Bohemian" flare
- Skinny jeans are threatening a comeback, but barrel and wide-leg are still holding strong
- Bold colors, especially in activewear
“But one of the most popular trends? Sustainability!” Nix said. “There's a growing focus on a ‘circular economy,’ making shopping secondhand one of this fall's LEADING trends in fashion.”
“Headed to the Little Pink Dress event Oct. 7? Better than Before has a beautiful selection of dresses and accessories!”
“Shoppers are savvier and more eco-conscious than ever – they know they can get more for less shopping secondhand while limiting their environmental impact.”