Greenwich–We have our favorite thrift shops, where treasures lurk, often curated from big bags of cast-offs left by donors.
And then there are consignment stores. Actually a designer consignment,  Consigned Designs in Greenwich, where a vintage Chanel handbag or a practical J. Crew sweater in perfect shape is yours at less than half retail. Your designer fashions can also come here for a new life and some cash for you.
Eight years ago, Ellen Atkinson had stopped working to be home with her six (!) boys. With a great personality and a knack for fashion, before long she was supporting her family reselling consigned clothes, shoes, handbags, scarves and more.
“I turn down as much as I take,” she says, “I want everything in the store to be beautiful and easy to buy.”
The store is bright and cheery, blouses and sweaters are arranged by color. And upstairs, everything is 50%. And don’t miss the children’s section.
Consigned Designs has now grown into a second store, next door, that’s all couture. You’ll find Burberry coats, Hermes clothing, Brunello Cucinelli (whose blouses routinely go for $1000 and up retail.)
Gorgeous without guilt.
