i thought it would be fun to write about actual boutiques!  and in light of the screwball economy – thought i’d chat about a lovely discount boutique in San Francisco called My Roommates Closet.

the concept is simple – it’s billed as a “boutique outlet” – with new merchandise at 50% of the original retail prices.  it’s like one giant sales rack.  boutiques that need to make room for new goodies can consign their overstock with MRC and at the end of each month they’ll receive a check for all items sold (at 50% of the MRC sale price). 

as a shopper – it’s a wonderful way to find those items that are just a wee bit out of your price range for at least 50% off.  the sizes are a little choppy – since these are just those few items that didn’t sell through at their original home.  but it’s a way to discover wonderful bargains and consider yourself lucky if you locate an item you had longed for at your favorite store!

as a boutique owner – this is a great way to move merchandise and bring in some cash.  perhaps you chose wrong for your clientele – sometimes an item simply needs a new home with a new set of shoppers to sell quickly.

finally – the shops are gorgeously appointed.  not your typical grungy second hand store.  you’ll feel you’re in another high-end boutique but with much lower price-tags.

if you’re a boutique owner looking for a place to deliver your unsold merchandise, contact the gals (Cate & Suzanne) at MRC to see if they can help you.  they currently work with over 35 botuiques in San Francisco, New York, and LA.