As the economy has changed over the last decade, we saw the loss of some good, mid- priced women’s resale stores. But that trend didn’t hurt Second Time Around in Arcadia. Located in the central shopping district, this mid-priced, quality resale women’s boutique has weathered changes by consistently offering good quality women’s clothes in near mint condition. Though you will find some high-end designers, the store caters to working, fashion forward women who want the better labels found in department stores at jaw dropping pricing.

I found dozens and dozens of good designer and brand name labels here: Anne Taylor, J Crew, Marna, Michael Kors, Dress Barn, Caribbean Joe, Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, BCBG, Banana Republic, Eileen Fisher, D & G, American Rag, Jones New York, Betsy Johnson, Max Studio, Casalon, Laundry Talbots, DKNY, INC and more all at pricing that is consistently 50%-75% below original retail.

Most offerings are within a season or a couple of years ago and some even have original tags on them. But everything here is in really good, if not mint condition. From shoes to handbags and dresses, to designer jeans, there is enough of a selection to keep anyone, in any economic tier, happy.

I liked an Adrienne Vittadini knit Dress at just $24. A couple of years old it would have retailed at $90-$120. A vintage Betsy Johnson red polka dot dress was a superb buy at $35. Retail would have been $110-$120. A cool linen J Crew peasant top was $19 instead of $48. A Calvin Klein black tiered peasant skirt was just $9 (it came home with me). A BCBG Knit cardigan sweater was only $29 instead of $98. A Michael Stars knit lace top was only $15 instead of the original $85. A pair of blue, paisley print, silk pants by Betsy Johnson were also a steal at just $19. I also found a pair of True Religion jeans at only $47.

If you need a cocktail or evening dress there are several here of note. A totally hip and very now Fun 2 Fun bubble satin cocktail dress was a great buy at $35. An incredible D & G black velvet halter, full length dress was another standout at only $25. I adored and tried on a grey leopard print Diane Von Furstenburg silk cocktail dress at only $49. But passed ‘cause it didn’t fit right. Perfect for Prom was another stunner in a silk halter full length burgundy gown by Miss Me at only $15.

They have a nice selection of handbags and shoes from Coach to Betsy Johnson at prices that are surprising low. A Betsy Johnson blue leather Bag was $100 instead of $300. A mint Tods camel leather handbag was only $295 instead of $795 and a Coach blue leather shoppers tote was $195 instead of $450. A pair of Nine West, 2-tone, leather slides were $22 and some gorgeous Anne Klein peep toe blue sued pumps were a terrific buy at $29. IF summer sandals are on your mind, you’ll also find a pair of Mossimo sandals at $21.50, and some Enzo Angiolini heeled sandals at $21.

New, consigned items arrive almost daily. This well laid out store is small enough for quick pop ins to see what’s new. Worth weekly visits, San Gabriel women should put this little boutique on their visit list. You’ll save a bundle.

Second Time Around
35 South First Avenue
Arcadia, CA 91006
626.446.7346

Suzanne O'Connor