What Style Encore Is and How It Operates

Style Encore is a consignment store chain where you can sell used clothing, shoes, and accessories to the store, which then resells them on your behalf. You don't hand over your items permanently — the store holds them for a set period (usually 60 to 90 days), and if they sell, you receive a percentage of the sale price. If they don't sell within that window, you pick them back up or the store donates them.

The store keeps a commission from each sale, typically ranging from 40 to 60 percent of the final price, meaning you receive 40 to 60 percent. The exact split depends on the item's category, condition, and the specific Style Encore location you're working with. You can also shop at Style Encore as a buyer — the secondhand prices are generally lower than retail, though higher than thrift store prices.

Style Encore has multiple locations across the United States, primarily in the Midwest and South. Each location operates independently, so policies on commission rates, consignment periods, and what items they accept can vary. Before you visit, it's worth calling ahead or checking the store's website to confirm their current terms.

Key Takeaways

  • Style Encore takes your clothing on consignment and pays you a percentage (typically 40 to 60 percent) if the item sells within 60 to 90 days.
  • Items that don't sell are returned to you or donated, depending on the store's policy and what you arranged when you dropped them off.
  • The store sets the price for your items based on brand, condition, and current demand, not on what you suggest.
  • You can shop at Style Encore as a buyer and find secondhand clothing at prices between thrift store and retail levels.
  • Policies vary by location, so confirm commission rates, consignment length, and item requirements with your local store before consigning.

How to Consign Your Clothing at Style Encore

Start by gathering items you want to consign. Style Encore typically accepts clothing, shoes, handbags, belts, and some accessories in good to excellent condition. Items should be clean, free of stains and damage, and in styles the store thinks will sell. Avoid items with broken zippers, missing buttons, or significant wear — the store will reject these at intake.

Bring your items to your nearest Style Encore location during business hours. A staff member will inspect each piece and decide whether to accept it. They'll look at the brand, condition, size, and current trends. Not everything you bring will be accepted — the store only takes items they believe customers will buy. If something is rejected, you take it home with you.

For items the store accepts, you'll sign a consignment agreement that spells out the commission rate, how long the store will hold your items, and what happens if they don't sell. Read this carefully — it's your contract with the store. You'll receive a receipt listing each item, its assigned price, and the date it was dropped off. Keep this receipt; you'll need it to track your items and pick up anything that doesn't sell.

Understanding Pricing and Commission Splits

Style Encore staff set the price for your items, not you. They base prices on the original brand, the item's condition, current demand for that style, and what similar items are selling for in their stores. A designer handbag in excellent condition might be priced at 30 to 50 percent of its original retail price. A basic cotton t-shirt from a mainstream brand might be priced at $5 to $8.

Commission rates typically fall between 40 and 60 percent for the store, which means you receive 40 to 60 percent of the sale price. Some stores offer better rates for higher-end items or for customers who consign regularly. A few locations offer a tiered system where you earn a higher percentage if your items sell quickly or if you bring in multiple pieces. Ask your local store whether they have any incentive programs.

When an item sells, the store deducts its commission and holds your payment until the consignment period ends or you request it. You can typically pick up your earnings in cash, by check, or sometimes by store credit (which may offer a small bonus). Payment timing varies — some stores pay out monthly, others wait until your consignment period closes.

What Happens to Items That Don't Sell

If your item doesn't sell within the consignment period (usually 60 to 90 days), you have two options. You can pick it up from the store, or you can authorize the store to donate it. Some locations require you to pick up unsold items within a specific window — typically 7 to 14 days after the consignment period ends — or they'll donate them automatically.

Check your consignment agreement for the store's policy on unsold items. If you want to pick up your items, mark that clearly on your receipt or agreement. If you forget to retrieve them and the store has already donated them, you won't be able to get them back. Some stores will hold items for an extra fee if you need more time, but this varies by location.

Shopping at Style Encore as a Buyer

Style Encore's inventory changes constantly because items are consigned by individuals rather than purchased by the store. This means you might find a specific brand or size one week and not see it again for months. Prices are generally 30 to 60 percent below retail for similar new items, though they're higher than you'd pay at a thrift store.

Most Style Encore locations organize clothing by category (tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear) and sometimes by size or brand. Fitting rooms are usually available. Return policies for buyers vary by location — some stores offer a short window (like 7 days) for returns if an item has a defect, while others have no returns on consigned goods. Ask at the register what the policy is before you buy.

Style Encore also runs sales and promotions, often marking down items that have been on the floor for a certain period. Signing up for the store's email list or checking their website can alert you to upcoming sales.

Preparing Items for the Best Chance of Sale

Clean your items thoroughly before you bring them in. Wash or dry-clean clothing, wipe down shoes and handbags, and remove any lint or debris. Items that look fresh and ready to wear are more likely to be accepted and priced higher. A stain or odor that you might overlook will be spotted by the intake staff and could result in rejection.

Choose items that are in current or timeless styles. Trendy pieces from five years ago may not sell, even if they're in perfect condition. Neutral colors and classic cuts tend to move faster than bold patterns or very dated silhouettes. Designer brands and quality basics (like well-made jeans or blazers) are usually easier to sell than fast-fashion items.

Include original tags if you still have them — items with tags intact are often priced higher and perceived as more desirable. If tags are missing but the item is clearly new or nearly new, mention that to the intake staff.

Tracking Your Items and Payments

Keep your consignment receipt in a safe place. It lists each item, its assigned price, and the consignment start date. You'll need this to track when your consignment period ends and to identify which items are yours if you return to pick up unsold merchandise.

Some Style Encore locations offer online tracking or a phone line where you can check whether your items have sold. Others require you to call or visit the store in person. Ask your local store what tracking options they provide. If you want to know the status of a specific item, have its description and price ready when you call.

If an item sells, you can usually request payment before the full consignment period ends, though some stores batch payments monthly. Check your agreement for payment schedules and methods. If you're owed money and haven't heard from the store, contact them directly — it's your responsibility to follow up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I consign items from any brand, or only designer labels?

Style Encore accepts items from a range of brands, not just designer labels. They take quality basics and mainstream brands alongside higher-end pieces. What matters most is condition and whether the store thinks it will sell. Call your local location to ask about specific brands or types of items you want to consign.

What if I disagree with the price the store set for my item?

You can't negotiate the price — Style Encore staff set it based on their assessment of the item's value and market demand. If you strongly disagree, you can decline to consign that item and take it home. Some stores may reconsider if you provide a reason, but this is not may provide.

How often should I check on my consigned items?

You don't need to check constantly, but it's wise to note your consignment end date and plan to pick up unsold items before that important date. If you want to know whether something sold, call the store or use their tracking system if available. Some people check in the last week of the consignment period to see what's still there.

Can I consign seasonal items like winter coats in summer?

Yes, but the store may hold them longer or price them lower because demand is lower. Some locations have separate areas for off-season items. Ask the intake staff whether they recommend consigning seasonal pieces and when they think they'll sell best.

What happens if an item is damaged while the store has it?

Style Encore is responsible for items while they're in the store. If something is damaged due to store negligence, report it when ready with your receipt. Policies on compensation vary, so check your consignment agreement or ask the manager what recourse you have.