It’s almost 2018! A new year, fresh start, and a great time to clean out your closet. I always encourage my personal styling clients to use the New Year as a time to purge their closet and add in essential pieces. This year with all the craziness around the world, I’ve been searching for ways to give back and get more involved with the community. When I brought this up to my dear friend, Jude Fitzgerald who has been a huge UNICEF supporter, she immediately brought up the North Shore Exchange.
Right away, I looked into the North Shore Exchange to learn more about the organization and I was so excited for the introduction. It’s the most amazing concept! The organization provides consignment + donation items, and all profits go toward Chicago charities – specifically children and families in need. I absolutely love that whether you shop, consign or donate with North Shore Exchange you can know you’re helping others.
The President of the organization, Wendy Serrino, is the brains behind North Shore Exchange and couldn’t be sweeter! I had the pleasure of meeting her during my visit to the store, where she shared a bit about how she came up with the idea to start the store to raise funds for charity. She came up with the concept when the Women’s Library Club opted to close their resale store after 80 years. Recently, North Shore Exchange won the James Tyree Emerging Business award at the Chicagoland Chamber’s 113th Annual meeting. During my chat with Wendy, she shared how honored she was to win such a prestigious award and most important to continue growing the organization to make an even bigger impact for those in need.
North Shore Exchange recently opened a new storefront at 900 N. Michigan, naturally I had to stop in to check it out for myself. I’ll admit when I made my first visit I didn’t plan on shopping, but once I saw the insane collection I couldn’t help it!
Shopping Finds
Can this dress be any more perfect for the holiday season?! I couldn’t resist this gorgeous piece, especially when I looked at the price. Are you ready for this? This dress cost $109! Yes, you read that correctly. It’s a vintage piece from Saks Fifth Avenue, too.
Another personal favorite find were these Cazal sunnies, originally priced at $750. I scored these for just $185! Seriously, how fun are these frames?! I love how unique they are, they’ll add such a fun twist to any look.
Last, but certainly not least is this gorgeous Chanel bag I picked up for less than $400. Yes LESS than $400! Total win for an incredible Chanel bag, right? You really can never go wrong with a Chanel bag, in my opinion. Let’s be honest, with these prices I didn’t SPEND money – I saved! 😉 The best part is it’s for a great cause.
How It Works
Now, you may be wondering how exactly the store works. I was curious when I saw the selection in store (and online!), too. The majority of employees for North Shore Exchange are volunteers who are passionate about the cause. All pieces for sale in store and online are done so through consignment or donations with 100% of proceeds going right to charity.
If you haven’t already, check out one of their stores. They have a location in Chicago and Glencoe, as well as a great selection online.
New Year, New Wardrobe
If you need some help editing your wardrobe for the New Year, I have you covered there! My team and I are at your service for all of your styling needs. As a special bonus for my first 5 readers, we’re offering 50% off styling services of 2 hours or more! That means an hourly rate starting at just $85 after discount! This special is for January ONLY and space is very limited. If you have questions or you’re ready to start the New Year right, contact us today to schedule your appointment.
