I walked in with two black evening dresses which the owner refused. I then looked at gowns for my son's wedding. I tried on a Halston, silk, long gown , size 8. The attendant ( big black glasses) helped to zip me. The dress was tight, the skirt was too tight to walk in as well. Then the owner remarked "you should loose weight". How RUDE! I said "I'm 5'6" 123 pounds! I'm not loosing weight!" No one should be told by a salesclerk to loose weight just to sell their clothes !! Don't go !! read more

Encore - Dress that didn't fit! - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - San Rafael, California

When this business started, they were pretty strict about the quality and style of the consignments. Most things looked close to new. Today, they still have nice clothes, bags and shoes (including a few designer brands), but too many things are a bit shabby and out of style. In addition, the staff is not overly friendly (they are not rude, they just do not smile much). I do support this business because consignment stores offer a sustainable alternative. I hope for gently used, stylish clothes next time I drop by. read more

I went in during my lunch hour as I work in the area and I've never been in the store and heard about it. First of all the parking was a little insane, but I thought that the dresses outside were worth the inconvenient parking. Once inside I wasn't greeted there was an older woman behind a register and then a woman who was putting away clothes who was I found out the owner who didn't say hello but was talking about other people that dropped off clothes and complaining. She clearly was not a friendly woman. Smile? Greet people?!I certainly did not feel I would ever come back here again marginal clothes, way marked up prices even on their summer items which were supposed to be on sale. It's a shame that people that own stores should know better than to talk poorly about the people that build their business. Won't be going back :( read more

Great place to shop & love the owners!! The new location is very convenient... CHECK IT OUT

I don't know what takes me so long but I just recently discovered this little gem. Such a pretty shop... well organized and exciting inventory with absolutely something for almost any taste. Classic pieces mixed with big designer brands as well as lagenlook and evening wear, leather bags (great prices) some active wear, jewelry and hats. Lately I'm in a flowy maxi dress mood and they have it! I've seen Lanvin, Jimmy Choo, Ulla Johnson, XiRENA, Kate spade, Chufy, Johnny Was, Chloe, Veja, Cos, Paige etc etc the list goes on and on and the merchandise changes frequently. I love consignment for its recycling aspect and that you get a dress that isn't necessarily something everyone else would have, like if you shopped at the designer stores. I recommend! read more

I have been shopping here for over 30 years. I have bought designer fashion from them for black tie parties, as well as resort and day-to-day attire. When either buying or consigning, they are honest with me about my attire. Truly, an exceptional store! read more

I had an unpleasant experience with the business owner. I brought in 2 pairs of new designer shoes and the lady did not think twice to look at it. She rolled her eyes and told me "we are a consignment store. Try knimble". I felt pretty discriminated against. Maybe because I was young and not dressed up? I went in again and had a nicer experience with a worker helping me find a dress. Came in once more and there was a regular who came in, saying all she found in her closet was a pair of pants. The owner greeted her with a smile and bought them right away. No hesitation, did not even look at them in greater detail. Why was I was not treated this way? read more

Amazing store! I have been shopping here for 30 years super friendly staff and the inventory changes all the time! You will not be disappointed in this designer high end consignment store. The staff is always friendly and there to help. read more

Every consignment shop would like you to believe they are reselling top designer clothing. At Encore I generally see less than a dozen top designer pieces. However, you will see plenty of Gap and The Limited as well as bridge-label quality pieces. They do generally have a nice selection across the full size spectrum. While I totally believe they are delightful and accommodating to their regulars, I have seen and experienced the imperiousness of their personnel. I have brought them Ralph Lauren, Cinq à Sept, Vince and had them rejected. I once saw a woman bring them a white jeans jacket to consign, which they rudely rejected, and another shopper followed her out to the parking lot to buy her jacket. I don't think they know wearable fashion as well as they think they do. read more

Finally made it to check out Encore on a Wednesday morning. The two ladies working there didn't acknowledge me in any way, much less say hello or ask if they could help me find something. The prices on the items I browsed were sky high - $48 seems to be the lowest price on items like scarfs and well worn hats that cost less new. Too bad. I was looking forward to having a new place to shop, but I'll give this tiny, crowded store with unwelcoming staff a wide miss. read more

I dropped off several designer clothes and was told to return in 30 days to collect what didn't sell. Upon my return in 30 days I was told my leather jacket had sold and I was given payment for it. I was handed a bag with my items that did not sell. I assumed that the dress that was missing was still on consignment so didn't worry about it. When I went back to inquire about the dress I was met with a very rude and defensive shop owner that told me I should have let them know sooner. She also called me names and told me she didn't want to do business with me. She told me they are not perfect and that they are a consignment store. From other reviews there is a pattern of this store not returning all of your items so if you do decide to drop off clothes make sure you take pictures before you leave the items in this shop. Many of the items in this shop are not current and they are over-priced so I will shop elsewhere and consign in better stores in the future. read more

i strongly recommend to take pictures of your clothes that they accepted. Twice they couldn't find an item. After a month she said my designer was sold and handed me $13.00 read more

Super friendly vibe and Fun place to look for something for both casual every day and special occasion for reasonable prices. Staff will help you if you ask like your favorite girlfriend, and tell you honestly what works, and what doesn't. I have consigned things here, some they sell and some they do not and I have never taken offense, this is standard for all consignment stores. read more

I finally experienced a Marin snob. I have heard of this creature for a very long time. Luckily, until today, I have not had the displeasure of this experience. I can only assume by previous reviews, this creature I speak of is the owner of the shop. I brought many items in with the hope that a few would be selected. Instead, the owner picked through the first few items on top as if she was going to catch some sort of disease and said she wasn't interested, but the consignment shop across town would be a perfect fit for me. I wonder if they know that this is how they're getting consignors? Maybe they don't care. I have to confess that I did not bring my items in a Louis Vuitton or Gucci bag, so that could be what set her off from the moment I walked through her door. A long time friend recommended Encore for consignment clothing. I will definitely let her know she should stop doing this. Bad, bad experience. I will NEVER enter this shop again. read more

Great store. Very nice clothes and shoes, friendly staff and very knowledgeable owner. I check in here regularly as selections turn over quickly. I always find something I like! read more

I took a few items Into sell on consignment. One top was a lace Marissa Webb w/ a large belt to match. NWT. Never been worn. When I went to pick it up the belt was missing. All the owner had to say was "I'm not responsible" even though it's my store!!! I also noticed my Blue & black Alexis dress was missing & I was never paid for it. I guess it's with the belt!!! Stay away from this store w/ ur nice stuff!!! Where's my check cheap a...!! I also sent an email blast to 50 warning them about Encore... read more

Love consignment stores. This one is upscale, well laid out, helpful staff. I bought one item, very satisfied. I will go back as new items come in daily. Check it out read more

Encore is upscale consignment at its best. I've been shopping here for over five years and have been able to pick up quite a few bargains along the way from Italian wool sweaters to US-made cotton and linen blouses. A local designer, Sandra English, was my go-to work blouse maker for years and I could always rely on Encore stocking her products. On my last visit to CA, I popped in for a look-see and was sad to find out that S. English's clothes were no longer being stocked as her line has 'gone down hill' over the past couple of years. I can appreciate that Encore takes pride in what it carries, but, of course, was sad to learn of S.E.'s decline. When I next return to CA, I'll be sure and visit Encore! read more

I looked at a flannel shirt that looked like something from TJMaxx they were trying to sell for $98. And when I left they followed me out thinking I stole something because I am young. Would never give them my business. If I could give zero stars I would. read more

I have gone into this store with some nice items. I was shocked at how rude and dismissive this owner was. As I looked around, I wasn't comfortable, it was a messy/stuffy store in my opinion. She needs to learn how to have some PR with customers. This lady is not a nice person. I happily donated these designer purses, shoes, and clothing to Bloom's. They were thrilled and could not thank me enough. So glad that I did not let this lady have one of my gorgeous and clean items. I will never step into Encore again. read more

I took a box full of designer clothes to Encore. When I walked in, the owner opened the box but did not look through it, she did not take one item out. She told me she didn't see any designer items (I guess she has x- ray vision) or maybe she decided I didn't look like someone who owns designer clothes. I told her I understood and if she didn't like brands like Stella McCartney or Jill Sander she shouldn't look through my items. She hesitated but by the time she reconsidered I was out the door. The hardest part was walking away without a $200 pair of shoes I loved and was going to buy. I am never giving this shop my business. My mom and aunt where going to join me at encore a few minutes later as we had planned a day of consignment shopping. I called them after the incident and asked them to meet me at a different consignment, Sax in San Anselmo. Between the 3 of us we spent over $750 there, the owner is a joy to shop with and the merchandise is incredible. Sax has a 5 star rating on Yelp and I'm going next week to consign my items as they only accept items during the week and we were there on Saturday. read more

The owner and staff are ALWAYS FRIENDLY, HAPPY, & NICE. They make me feel welcome and as part of their extended family. The owner, Linda, repeatedly has a good eye for clothing and accessories. Definitely one of the best in Marin. One of the stores highlights' is their shoes. There are lots of designer shoes and beautiful jewelry well priced. I bought a gorgeous dangly real pearl bracelet yesterday for only $32. Prices are fair and of course, higher for designer clothing. They also have a 50% off rack in the left corner as you walk in the front door. She wants clean and well presented items not clothes stuffed in a box and all wrinkled. Learning to consign clothes is an art that takes time to understand. It's well worth the time and effort. read more

This is one of my favorite consignment stores in the Bay Area. No idea who these people are referring to in the reviews, the owner is always kind and goes out of her way to be helpful. She has a really good eye for unique and one of a kind items. Some of my favorite items in my wardrobe have come from this store. I make the trek at least once a month! read more

This is a great store to find what you didn't know you needed. If you go in with an idea you probably won't find anything, I usually am just browsing here and they have a good selection of higher end clothing from people who have decided to rid themselves of "those jeans from spring" The aisles can be tight if you and another person is in the same aisle, everything is well placed in the store which is nice. The clothing is all clean and color coordinated on racks. My closet is like this, either I am born for retail or I have a closet-color fetish. They have four or five changing rooms and they all have those swinging doors on them. Some close, some don't. I have only seen one man in the store ever so this is not an issue for me if the door is open a bit. I have sold a few pairs of shoes here, I am still going through my stuff at home, but they take half of the profit. The saleswoman was really cool when I brought them in and she bought a pair from me on the spot, funny. I also signed up for the "if my stuff doesn't sell I want it to go to charity" program, I recommend it if you don't care to sell your stuff on ebay later. Parking is tight as Peets is in the same lot, but street parking is available. They also have daily half-off prices on certain color tags. read more

I've been in 3 times. The woman that runs this shop has such a poor attitude I don't understand how she stays in business. Every time I've gone in I end up leaving in a bad mood. Won't be back. read more

I have been a regular at Encore for years and every time I visit Linda makes me feel like family. She knows my tastes and knows every piece of clothing in the store and makes great suggestions. She has even called me when a piece comes in that she thinks I will like. This is a really great family business and I've gotten some of my best "pieces" here over the years. I love the variety as well. She gets everything from Marni and Celine to Isabel Marant, Rag and Bone and local designers like Erica Tanov. A gem of a store. read more

I have lived here a long time and I have been to the store 20 times or so. I don't think I have ever bought anything. I consigned a few holiday dresses that didn't sell. I sooooo want this store to be better. The area can use more consignment stores. The vibe is off from the entry. It is not warm and inviting. The racks are too tight to see the clothes. The workers seem to always be looking for theft, which feels so weird. I recommend Bloom or the other shops in San Anselmo for a better variety and shopping experience.. read more

I've been sporadically (1-2 x year) going to this shop for a little while, mostly to check out what they have and on occasion to consign a handful of my clothes. Which by the way has been a puny 2-5% successful. They have a large selection to rummage through if you're shopping. In fact the racks are a bit too crowded. Labels are varied and prices are fair. If you're a long time patron or a friend the staff will be friendly otherwise interactions are curt with barely a smile. I generally walk out of there feeling cool and unwelcome. After a visit there I can wait a half a year or longer for another visit. read more

I have had nothing but good experiences with Encore. The ladies are very nice. good selection of clothing and good price . what ever they take of mine they sell. It is a great place and close to Whole Foods which is nice too.! read more

My mother died and she left me several Chanel , Gucci shoes and fabulous sweaters from Faconnable. It was recommended that I sell them to Encore. The woman who runs it behaves as though she works at a Las Vegas Pawn shop. I laid out all my mom's new clothing and shoes . She she said would give me "a hundred " for a pair of mom's brand new Chanel flats. I agreed , and as she handed me the cash, she took another new pair of shoes without my awareness. I showed her an unworn sweater of my mothers, she snatched it from my hands and quickly said, "All one hundred dollars." I took my mom's sweaters from her hands but left her with the two shoes because it did not register I got taken for hundreds. Trashy. read more

This store is located by Pete's coffee and a Asian market. Make sure you park in the designated spot because the market will make you move. I stopped by the store to find a dress to wear during my wedding party. I was looking for something with a vintage feel when I change out of my wedding gown. There was a huge selection but it is a hit or miss. The items I did want were not my size and make sure you look closely for any big damages. I like second hand store because it's like digging for a treasure and I get a fun rush when I find the perfect piece. I did not find anything that day but the sales people were helpful and friendly. read more

Consignment stores are so much more interesting that regular stores because you have a variety of brands, styles and all for a reduced price Encore is an especially nice store. The staff is helpful and friendly, and the owner has been in this business for 36 years! That alone says a lot. read more

I gave some items to consign over a year ago and then moved out of state. I just called and was told "you have to contact me"!! Without my knowledge or consent, my items were DONATED! What a scam! I consigned an $800 pair of Louis Vuitton lizard pumps and a pair of $1300 jeweled Rene Caovilla flats, each worn a handful of times and now they're who knows where. Go somewhere reputable. read more

I never complain about consignment stores, because I always find treasures at great prices, but this place is extremely overpriced, and that is an understatement. Upon first glance, I noticed the prices were higher than other consignment stores, even those in the City. But I did find a beautiful dress off the 50% discount rack, problem is when I went to go pay for it (it was almost see through, a summer dress, light colors), the ladies said it was a mistake, that it was full priced. Even at Neiman's Last Call, this brand new dress wouldn't have been priced this high. I know my labels and I have to say I am never stepping through their doors ever again. read more

Linda is one of the kindest, most generous and supportive women I know. She has 'gone the extra mile' for me so many times when I've needed something special, coveted a particular piece, sought advice on what to wear, and how to wear it, and helped build my confidence through my choice of clothes and accessories. Every time I walk into Encore I feel welcomed in a place where they really listen and are great at improvisation as well as advice. I feel lucky to have happened upon Encore a number of years ago now and it has remained my 'go to' place for clothes and for feeling great inside and out. Deep thanks also to the other staff at Encore who are similarly thoughtful, responsive and kind. read more

The prices here are extremely high. On my last visit I saw a J.Crew sweater marked at $48.00, which retails new for $58.00. T-shirts are also expensive, and I noted that I could purchase new t-shirts on sale for about the same price they want for a used t-shirt. I also noticed several items with holes, and several items which smelled dirty. In my opinion if they are charging so much they should be much more careful when inspecting new consignment items. I've never consigned my clothing here, as I don't re-sell my designer items (keep them forever) but if I did, I wouldn't like the fact that the designer items are on the rack closest to the door. I don't find the service to be any better or worse than any other consignment store. Personally, I like to be left alone anyway so I can dig through the racks at my leisure. The merchandise is usually higher-end brands. On my last visit I saw things from J.Crew, YSL, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, and M Missoni. They usually have a good collection of shoes and handbags, as well, although they did have a small collection of fake handbags when I was there last, which didn't impress me. I find the prices to be extremely high for a consignment store. There are others in Petaluma and San Francisco with similar or superior merchandise and more reasonable prices. Update: last time I was there with a friend the two sales associates took their lunch into the back room and ate it, leaving us 'unsupervised'. I personally didn't care but if I were a consigner- and the high-end items are all located within reach of the front door-I would not be pleased. read more

I am a retired retail manager for over 25 years. I've sold it all. High end soft lines (clothing) was my specialty for 10 years. My job was to provide a quality product to discriminating women with money and style. Not once did we prescribe to the idea that "snooty" and "ignoring the customer" behavior was acceptable. It's bad business, and SO 1980'S Beverly Hills. In today's economy everybody wants a bargain, and to keep clothes out of landfills - that is why we shop consignment. The laughable "snooty" behavior at Encore is not only unacceptable, it's costing them business. If you shop here and are treated disrespectfully like myself and others, please speak up and let them know. By saying nothing you're validating their behavior thus perpetuating the stereo type that women with moderate income cannot shop in designer stores, which is ridiculous. read more

This is not a good business. My initial experience was unwelcoming so I was not happy, and I regret not going with my gut feeling. After awhile I called them to ask if my dresses sold, and they said that they had up to 3 months to sell them. Unfortunately, I missed the deadline, and when I called they said they donated my dresses when I specially told them not to donate them as they were very expensive and some still had the tags. They said I missed the deadline so they donated them. I very much doubt they donated them, and I believe they kept my share of the dresses. In my opinion they are dishonest and criminal. I will never do business with them again and you shouldn't either! read more

Great designer clothing, shoes, bags, etc.... at great prices! I tried to keep my "best kept secret" a secret, but when my friends continued to ask where I purchased my new BV purse, or a unique dress, a great sweater/jacket, etc, I just had to share. Now all my besties shop at Encore. Linda and her staff have always been delightful and helpful when I was looking for a specific type/sized item. The quality and condition of the goods is top notch. Styles are current and classic. This store should be on your radar. I just hope we don't wear the same size :) read more

Take pictures before you drop off. I brought in a 2 piece formal with a beaded jacket, (every single bead was in place) that belonged to my mother who is meticulous about her clothes it was packed in the original garment bag when I dropped off and inspected, (as they do before they accept any of your items). When I picked it up, (unsold) there were strings hanging all over the jacket where beads used to be and a huge 6" stain on the elbow where someone stuck their elbow in food or drink, the back of the jacket was creased from sitting in it while the skirt still showed no signs of wear, (as it was when I delivered the entire outfit). Someone wore the jacket badly, returned it to the hanger and then they tried to tell me it looked like this when I dropped it off, (they weren't responsible for the condition). Now "I" will pay my mother just to spare her the indignation of what they did to a perfectly good $350 formal outfit she lovingly wore once to her grandson's wedding. read more