Victoria's Consignments: How to Buy and Sell Women's Clothing in Columbia

What Victoria's Consignments offers

Victoria's Consignments is a consignment shop in Columbia where you can buy secondhand women's clothing or sell pieces you no longer wear. The store buys items outright or takes them on consignment, meaning you receive a percentage of the sale price when someone buys your clothes. You walk in with garments, the staff evaluates them, and you either leave with cash that day or agree to let them sell the items and pay you later.

The shop carries a rotating inventory of dresses, tops, pants, jackets, and accessories—mostly contemporary styles in good condition. Because stock changes as items sell and new consignments arrive, what you find on one visit will be different the next. Prices are typically lower than retail because the clothes are secondhand, and the selection leans toward everyday wear rather than formal or vintage specialty pieces.

Key Takeaways

• Victoria's Consignments pays you either immediately when you sell items outright or later when consigned pieces sell, depending on which option you choose.
• The store accepts women's clothing in current styles and good condition; worn-out, stained, or dated items are usually declined.
• Consignment typically means you receive 40 to 50 percent of the sale price, though the exact split varies by item and condition.
• You can browse and purchase secondhand clothing at lower prices than retail, with new inventory arriving as consignments come in.

How to sell your clothes at Victoria's Consignments

Bring clean, unwrinkled garments in current styles and good condition. Stains, tears, missing buttons, or broken zippers usually mean the store will decline the item. Seasonal pieces sell better when you bring them in during the right season—summer dresses in June, sweaters in September. Check that all seams are intact and fabric is not pilled or faded.

The staff will look at each piece and decide whether to buy it outright for a flat fee or take it on consignment. If they buy it outright, you get paid that day but receive less money than you would if it sold on consignment. If they take it on consignment, your clothes stay on the rack for a set period (usually 60 to 90 days, though this varies). When an item sells, you receive your percentage of the sale price, typically 40 to 50 percent depending on the item's condition and retail value.

Ask the staff about their current terms before you leave clothes with them. Payment for consigned items usually comes by check or cash once the piece sells, so confirm how and when you will be paid. If your item does not sell within the consignment period, you can pick it up or let the store donate or discard it—clarify this policy before you agree to consignment.

What to expect when you shop at Victoria's Consignments

The store is organized by clothing type—dresses in one section, tops in another, pants elsewhere—making it easier to browse. Sizes range from extra small to extra large, though not every size is always in stock. Because consignment inventory changes constantly, you may find a great piece one week and never see it again, or visit multiple times before finding what you need.

Prices are marked on tags and are usually 30 to 60 percent below what you would pay for the same item new. A dress that retails for $80 might be priced at $25 to $35; a name-brand top originally $50 might cost $15 to $20. The exact price depends on the brand, condition, and how long the item has been on the rack. Older consignments sometimes drop in price if they have not sold.

Location and hours

Victoria's Consignments is located in Columbia. Before you visit, check the store's current hours, as consignment shops sometimes adjust their schedule seasonally or by day of the week. Call ahead or check online to confirm they are open and to ask about any current promotions or buying events.

Parking is typically available at or near the storefront. If you are bringing a large bag of clothes to sell, arriving during slower hours (weekday mornings or early afternoons) often means shorter wait times for the staff to evaluate your items.

Condition standards and what gets declined

Victoria's Consignments accepts clothing that looks like it has been worn a few times but is still in wearable condition. Visible stains, holes, broken zippers, missing buttons, or strong odors are reasons for decline. Fabric that is pilled, faded, or stretched out of shape is also typically rejected. Undergarments and swimwear are usually not accepted for hygiene reasons.

Styles matter too. Very trendy pieces that are no longer fashionable, outdated cuts, or clothing from several seasons ago may be declined even if the condition is good. The staff makes these judgments based on what they think will sell in the current market. If an item is declined, you can take it with you or ask if the store will donate it.

Payment methods and timing

If you sell items outright, you receive cash or a check on the spot. If you choose consignment, payment comes after the item sells. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on how quickly the piece moves. Some stores offer a check by mail; others require you to pick up payment in person.

Ask about the store's payment schedule before you leave your clothes. Some consignment shops pay weekly or monthly; others pay only when you request it. Confirm whether they accept credit card payments for your sale or only cash and check. If you consign multiple items, ask whether they pay per item as it sells or in one lump sum once everything is sold or the consignment period ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I consign designer brands or high-end clothing?

Yes, many consignment shops including Victoria's accept designer and higher-end pieces, often at better percentages than everyday brands. Bring items with tags intact or in excellent condition. Designer consignments may stay on the rack longer and may sell for higher prices, which can work in your favor.

What happens if my consigned item doesn't sell?

After the consignment period ends (usually 60 to 90 days), you can pick up unsold items, let the store donate them, or authorize the store to discard them. Confirm this policy before you leave your clothes so there are no surprises.

How long does it take to get paid for consigned clothes?

Payment timing varies. Some items sell within days; others take weeks. Most stores pay monthly or when you request it. Ask the staff about their specific payment schedule before you consign so you know when to expect your money.

Do you take clothes that are out of season?

Consignment shops are more likely to accept seasonal items during the season they are worn. Summer dresses sell better in warm months; sweaters and jackets move faster in fall and winter. You can still bring off-season items, but they may be declined or priced lower.

What should I do to prepare clothes before I bring them in?

Wash or dry-clean items, remove wrinkles with an iron, and check for stains, tears, or loose buttons. Clothes should look like they just came out of a closet, not a hamper. The better condition your items are in, the more likely the store will accept them and the higher price they may command.