Off the Rack Favorite: Bella Boutique

            For someone who has lived in Philadelphia for five years, I am not well versed in the institution that is South Street. I mean, it’s where Miley Cyrus went from sweet little Hannah Montana to the woman we are familiar with today. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Cryrus claims that Philadelphia is where she found her style.

“Have you ever been to South Street in Philly? That's where I got my first chain. Sixteen bucks – not real," she said.

Well, I wouldn’t say that I had a complete style makeover, but my shopping horizons were expanded after a trip to South Street. I came across Bella Boutique, a consignment store located at 527 South 4^th Street

            The store has been open for 15 years, the last 8 in its current location. The boutique offers a large inventory, from costume jewelry to high-end accessories, and everyday clothes to fur jackets. Bella’s shoe collection includes such brands as Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin. I even saw a Hermes “H” belt behind the counter that the boutique was selling for $150. This belt is regularly priced at $500!

Who can beat a deal like that?

            The sales people at Bella were extremely helpful and were more than glad to answer my questions. The boutique accepts consignment Monday through Saturday from 1pm-7pm, and on Sunday from 1pm-6pm. There is no minimum number of items required to sell. Marie, the sales associate, said the salespeople pick inventory based on how customers are shopping in “regular” retail stores, and “of course” on the basis of need. At this time, the boutique is going through a transition period. That means they are trying to get rid of winter clothes – such as heavy coats, to make room for spring items.

            After customers bring in their items to consign, they will approve the price before the clothes are put on the floor. When their items are sold, they will receive 40% of the selling price. The employees maintain that the store tends to get more of the higher-end items than any of the other consignment shops around the area. After looking around the boutique for close to an hour, I tend to agree. If the items given to the boutique do not sell after 40 days, then they are donated to thrift stores like Philly AIDS Thrift. Or, customers can choose to take them back.

Top Left and Right: gold chain bracelet with pink accent; Bottom Left and Right: gold swirl bracelet. (Alexandra Carlino, purchased at Bella Boutique)

            While I was in Bella Boutique I fell in love with the accessories section. The boutique carried unique pieces that I haven’t seen in stores. I ended up purchasing 2 bracelets. I intended to only buy one, but to make the $10 credit-card minimum I had to choose a second. While checking out, Marie showed me a full finger sterling silver ring with an intricate design for $12. I almost bought the ring but fought the urge. But can a girl really have too much jewelry? Maybe another trip is in my future. I was pleasantly surprised by my first foray into consignment store shopping. This boutique will be my first stop when I make my way back to South Street, and this time I will bring friends along. Bella Boutique is officially “Off the Rack” approved.