Consignment fashion retailer Current Boutique will launch an online store next week, taking its gently used Diane von Furstenburg dresses and BCBG tops from the District region to the global marketplace.
Current has slowly spread geographically during the past few years, starting with one store in Clarendon and then adding stores in Alexandria, Logan Circle and most recently, Bethesda.
The online store is a natural next step, said Current Boutique owner Carmen Lopez. She’s planning to launch the online shop Oct. 15.
“We have had numerous sales from our daily blog updates, which are also broadcast on our Facebook and Twitter pages,” she said. I believe it: I own a pair of fabulous pumps because of those Facebook posts.
Current’s model is based on taking slightly used designer clothing items from consignors, re-selling them and then paying consignors a portion of the proceeds once the items are sold. Consignors can take their payment by check or store credit.
The online store will not only sell consigned items but also let potential consignors outside of the area send in the items they wish to consign; currently, most consigned clothing comes directly into the shops.
“Many of our loyal consignors that have moved away continue to consign with us by sending their consignments through the mail,” Lopez said. “Adding the mail-in consignment component to our business will continue our growth.”
