The weather outside may be frightful, but holiday saving at It’s So You Resale is sooo delightful

By Patricia Nugent

A team of fashion industry brand consultants recently did an evaluation at It’s So You Resale in Willoughby.

When they started, they asked owner Laurel Howes to describe her darling store in one word. Her answer: fun. After they finished their study, the one word they had for it was: joyful. Both adjectives perfectly describe the lively vibe at this retail mecca, where shopping is elevated and celebrated.

When it comes to holiday style—whether that means gorgeous outfits, fabulous gifts or charming furniture and home decor—this year Laurel and her diverse and style-addicted staff have outdone themselves.

“I feel that now more than ever, sustainability is a buzzword and resale has become very cool and popular with any age,” says Laurel. “A younger person would much rather be given something recycled than something new. We appeal to younger and more mature shoppers with everything from casual workout clothes to cozy sweaters and jeans, as well as career wear and dressy dresses.”

Is Pink the New Red?
Also known as “Barbiecore,” this trend is so in right now, from red carpets to runways and all around town.

“I think of bright pink as the new red because it flatters more skin tones, while also pairing perfectly with everything from animal print to plaid and denim,” says Laurel.

Wondering which shade would look best on you and fit with your wardrobe? Pop into the boutique and the enthusiastic team will help you wear it your best.

Another trend they are over the moon about this season is the diversity in denim.

“There really isn’t a right length or leg style or perfect shade. It’s really about whatever looks great on you,” she says. “Lots of celebrities have been seen wearing tennis shoes with dressy outfits, and I love it that women are having fun and joining them. Life is short, right? We should all enjoy it.”

Style Secrets
“For anyone who has a holiday party to go to but aren’t sure what to wear, come see us,” she adds. “My little tip for any event is if you’re on the fence about whether to get a little more or a little less dressed up, always opt for the little more. It shows how much you thought of the event, and wouldn’t you rather cast an impression of going all out?”

She says getting the details right is elemental to any amazing ensemble. Over the years, the boutique has earned a reputation for carrying designer handbags in high-end labels and styles like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, Coach, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Dooney & Bourke, Kate Spade and Brahmin in crossbody styles, handbags, totes, wristlets, backpacks, clutches and belt bags, even designer laptop carryalls and totes. There’s no fear of knockoffs, as the boutique stands by all its bags being authentic.

Other chic accessories include scarves, gloves, hats, jewelry, shoes and boots.

Facebook Live Shows
Laurel says a big chunk of It’s So You Resale shoppers near and far enjoy the store’s interactive Facebook Live shows where Laurel and her team of fashionistas showcase the latest arrivals.

“We are the hyper-local version of the QVC,” she says, laughing. “It’s grown by leaps and bounds. I’d say more than 20% of our shoppers buy from the Facebook live shopping events. We do up to five shows a week and alert people via text when they are happening so they can hop on and grab the hottest looks before they hit our store floor.”

Your Homiest Home
“There’s no better time than the holidays to make your home festive and bright,” says Laurel. “We pack our home décor department with sparkling, glittering, glowing treasures to put a spark in any home. This year, we are all looking forward to getting out more and hosting parties, so it’s the perfect time to ramp up your home’s personality.”

You’ll find festive accent pieces side chairs, accent tables, lamps, rugs, mirrors, wall art, tableware, linens, vases, throw blankets and florals. You’ll also find beautiful seasonal goodies, from garland and wreaths to holiday centerpieces, mugs, candles and candlesticks.

“Lots of these items make wonderful hostess gifts,” she adds. “We also have a cool display with fun gifts for the guys, such as mugs, designer wallets and dart games.”

You’ll always see a special sale rack near the spacious fitting rooms. Laurel says all the proceeds from that go toward their ongoing fund to give back to local charities.

Holiday Open Houses
Whether you are an early bird or last-minute shopper, It’s So You has you covered this year with holiday open houses. Enjoy the first one on Saturday, November 12, our Cozy Christmas, come in your pajamas, and the second on Saturday, December 17, both from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy refreshments, holiday giveaways, specials on gift cards and more.

The Perfect Gifts of Everyone on Your List
Teachers, coaches, doctors, hairdressers, coworkers, neighbors, girlfriends…it seems as though the gift list is never-ending. This year, why not shelve the stress, save money and have a ball while knocking down that list? The merry elves who work at It’s So You are magicians when it comes to selecting the most thoughtful gifts. Here are a few ideas:

Under $50
Cashmere and wool shawls and scarves
Designer wristlets and wallets
Christmas China and crystal
Luxury Lite Flameless candles

Under $20
Gloves
Wall art
Boutique items

Under $10
Socks
Headbands
Jewelry

And for the gift that keeps on giving, Laurel says they do a brisk business in gift cards of any denomination.

It’s So You is located in the Pine Ridge Plaza by Heinen’s, at 34601 Ridge Road in Willoughby. Consignors are welcome Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday during store hours. First-timers need to make an appointment on our website. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Shipping is available. Visit ItsSoYouBoutique.com for any consignment inquiries or for more information.