Charleston Style Exchange: How to Buy and Sell Used Women's Clothing

What Charleston Style Exchange is and how it works

Charleston Style Exchange is a consignment shop in downtown Charleston where you can sell your gently used women's clothing, shoes, and accessories, or buy pieces from other people's closets. You bring items in, the shop displays them, and when something sells, you receive a percentage of the sale price. It's a straightforward way to refresh your wardrobe without paying full retail, and to turn clothes you no longer wear into cash or store credit.

The shop operates on consignment, meaning you keep ownership of your items until they sell. The store handles pricing, display, and the sale itself. You don't need to list anything online or manage individual transactions—the shop does that work for you.

Key Takeaways

• You receive a percentage of the sale price when your consigned items sell, typically ranging from 40 to 60 percent depending on the item and current store policies.
• Items must be clean, in good condition, and from recent seasons; the shop may decline pieces that are stained, torn, or significantly out of style.
• You can drop off items during business hours and check on your sales online or by phone, though policies vary by location and season.
• Buying at Charleston Style Exchange costs less than retail because prices reflect the consignment model, and inventory changes frequently as new items arrive.

What items the shop accepts for consignment

Charleston Style Exchange takes women's clothing, shoes, handbags, and jewelry in good condition. Items should be clean, free of stains and damage, and from current or recent seasons. The shop focuses on contemporary styles rather than vintage or heavily dated pieces, though what counts as "current" shifts with the season.

Pieces with minor wear—a small scuff on a shoe, a faint mark that doesn't affect wearability—are often accepted. Items with holes, permanent stains, broken zippers, or missing buttons are typically declined. If you're unsure whether something will be accepted, you can bring it in and ask; staff can tell you on the spot whether it meets their standards.

The shop does not accept items that are extremely large or small, heavily worn formal wear from many years ago, or pieces in poor condition. Seasonal items (like winter coats) may be accepted only during certain months.

How to consign your clothes

Visit the shop during business hours with the items you want to consign. Staff will review each piece for condition, style, and current demand. They'll let you know which items they'll take and which they won't, usually on the same visit.

Once accepted, you'll sign a consignment agreement that outlines how long the shop will display your items (typically 60 to 90 days), what percentage you'll receive when something sells, and what happens to unsold pieces. Keep a copy of this agreement and note which items you left.

You can check on your sales by calling the shop or, at some locations, through an online account. When items sell, you can pick up your payment in store, receive it by check, or apply it as store credit toward new purchases. Unsold items can usually be picked up at the end of the consignment period, though some shops donate them if not claimed.

Pricing and what you'll receive

The shop sets the price for your items based on brand, condition, style, and current demand. You don't negotiate individual prices, but you can ask staff how they arrived at a particular price if you have questions. Prices are typically 30 to 50 percent of what similar new items cost at retail.

Your payout depends on the item's sale price and the shop's current consignment split. Most shops offer sellers 40 to 60 percent of the sale price, with the shop keeping the rest to cover rent, staff, and operations. Higher-end designer pieces may have a different split than everyday clothing. Ask about the specific percentage when you drop off your items.

Payment timing varies. Some shops pay when items sell; others batch payments monthly. Check your consignment agreement for details, and ask staff if you're unsure when to expect money.

Shopping at Charleston Style Exchange

The inventory changes constantly as new consignments arrive and items sell, so you might find something different each visit. Prices are lower than retail because the shop passes along the savings from buying used. You'll find contemporary women's clothing, shoes, and accessories in a range of sizes and styles.

Items are typically organized by type (dresses, tops, pants) and sometimes by size or color. Staff can help you locate specific items or styles if you're looking for something particular. Because inventory is always shifting, if you find something you love, it's worth buying it rather than waiting—it may not be there next time.

Return policies for purchases vary by shop location. Some allow returns or exchanges within a certain window; others sell items as-is with no returns. Ask about the policy when you buy, especially for higher-priced pieces.

Location and hours

Charleston Style Exchange is located in downtown Charleston. Hours and exact address can change, so call ahead or check online before visiting. The shop is typically open during standard retail hours, though holiday hours may differ.

If you're planning to consign a large number of items, consider calling first to ask whether you should make an appointment or simply drop by. Some locations prefer advance notice for large consignments so staff can dedicate time to review everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my items don't sell?

Unsold items are usually held for the length of your consignment agreement (typically 60 to 90 days). After that, you can pick them up, or the shop may donate them. Check your agreement for the exact policy and pickup deadline.

Can I consign items from any brand?

Yes, but the shop focuses on contemporary styles in good condition. High-end designer pieces, everyday brands, and mid-range clothing are all accepted if they meet quality standards. Very old or heavily worn items are typically declined regardless of brand.

How long does it take to get paid?

Payment timing depends on the shop's policy. Some pay when items sell; others pay monthly or quarterly. Ask about the payment schedule when you drop off your consignment, and check your agreement for details.

Do you offer store credit instead of cash?

Many consignment shops offer store credit as an option, often at a higher percentage than cash payouts. Ask staff whether this is available and what the credit percentage is compared to cash.

Can I return something I bought if I change my mind?

Return policies vary by location. Some shops allow returns or exchanges within a set timeframe; others sell items as-is with no returns. Ask about the policy when you purchase, especially for items over a certain price.