Resale fashion deals blossom at Cherry Consignment in West Seattle

West Seattle is becoming quite the shopping destination for consignment stores. Again & a Gain and Smallclothes children's resale shops bookend California Avenue; Funky Jane's has some new digs at the Junction and now, Cherry Consignment a few blocks north offers fantastic fashion at affordable prices.

Located in the same space formerly occupied by a consignment store called Designer Labels, Cherry was opened in August by West Seattle mom Nyla Bitterman. In addition to Cherry (and three young children), Bitterman also runs The Ruby Room, a nonprofit organization that collects gently used formal dresses and donates them to disadvantaged girls in the Seattle area.

With no formal retail experience, Bitterman is a lifelong resale shopper who opened Cherry because she "always wanted to own a business in my neighborhood." She goes on to say that it's her life's mission to "do something you love, even if you don't always know what you're doing."

This easygoing attitude translates to the vibe of her store, which is well-organized by color and full of gems. On a recent visit I spied practically unworn round-toe black pumps from boutique line Gentle Souls for $38 (a quick check online found them new for $238); an unworn Pendleton women's suit for $35; a great orange and white color-block zip-up sweater from Banana Republic for $28; and more than one pair of Prada shoes for $120.

Bitterman likes to carry a range of clothing for women (and men) of all sizes. Cherry's maternity, men's and plus-size sections are well-populated with clothing just as current and wearable as the items in the rest of the store.

Consignment terms are standard: Clothes are on the rack for 60 days and the seller receives 40 percent of the sale price. After 60 days, the seller can elect to pick up their unsold merchandise or Cherry will donate it to a local charity such as Dress for Success.

Selling appointments are required, and Bitterman suggests that potential sellers bring in their top ten pieces for consideration rather than a whole slew of options to make the process easier.

Cherry Consignment is located at 4142 California Ave. S.W., Seattle 98116; 206-933-7479. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Closed Sundays.

Copyright © The Seattle Times Company