My wife loves coming here. She usually finds a hidden gem or two in the used section. This place has huge potential, but I agree with most of the other reviews that the owner is just flat out rude and it has the trickle down effect on her employees. We wanted to purchase something that they were all out of besides the one in the window display. She acted as if we asked her to run a marathon or something. I'm willing to spend the extra money down the street at monkey bars. read more

Lauren's Closet - Kids play room - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Alameda, California

Not very friendly, buying selection is very biased. Went to sell mostly brand new stuff, express, Nike, Zara, and h&m, dresses shorts and a few light jackets and immediately, said they were not interested, claimed they were looking for spring items, but clearly they were, so it seems as if they only want to cater to maybe certain type of people, and clearly I did not match their demographics. Was going to look around but store also looks very cluttered. read more

Literally the worst place to sell. I came in today with - 3 VERY good condition Michael Kors purses - Retro Jordan's (hardly worn) - Brand new pink Toms - 2 brand new pairs of Shoedazzle high heels. One nude closed toe, one black cone pump They didn't take one thing. But if you want super washed, distressed, paper thin sweaters and T-shirts for $5 - $12, this is your spot. read more

I would avoid this place like the plague. And this review is LONG overdue. I came here a few years back when I was pregnant with my daughter. I came in with a few bags for them to buy from and they told me the wait was around 1-1 1/2 hours. So I walked around the store and a few other places near by. Mind you the staff was not friendly at all I tried to be as pleasant as possible. When looking through there clothes the variety was pretty generic. I walked up to the desk to see if my clothes were ready and they said yes they couldn't take anything. There was a girl that came out with my bags and threw them on the floor in front of me, couldn't even hand them to me and I was 7 months pregnant. I was so upset about the entire interaction I promised myself I would never return or patron the store. I also will make sure anyone I know will not buy from here either. It's been a few years but as from reading current reviews I can see nothings changed. I'm surprised they're still in business tbh. read more

Date: 11/2/2015 Time: 12:25 PM 60° Partly cloudy As many times as I have walked by Lauren's Closet in the past, I have never stopped in to see what they have in store for my curious eyes. I know this is a consignment store (buy and sell) with gently used clothes, toys, books, etc. They also carry knick knacks, trinkets and artwork. However, what caught my attention was a children's book, Fairies Cookbook, written by Barbara Beery. It was on a bookshelf in front of the store. The front cover of the book was adorned with a cute pink cupcake and fairy wands atop a cake pedestal. I could not pass it up. The book was tugging at my heart (lookie, lookie, you know you want the cute cookie/bookie...buy me, buy me). While browsing through the book, a young gentleman brought in a bag of clothes to sell to the owner. He was in and out of there in less than two minutes. They did not buy his clothes. He wasn't a happy camper. I grabbed the book and went on in to see what other items they had that might perk my interest. I did see these awesome Star Wars reusable bags and a Hello Kitty plushie (TY brand). The young lady assisting me was friendly and pleasant. The other employees seemed busy working, as they were not too talkative. I will return to Lauren's Closet to purchase one of those stress-free coloring books for adults, which seems to be a therapeutic thing for grown ups these days, and a Star Wars reusable bag to add to my collection. I'm not sure if everything is priced half off. The regular price for the cookbook was $14.99 before tax. Cost: $8.20, tax included. read more

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We've been going to Lauren's Closet for the last few years and have always found cute gifts for kids birthday parties. But what made me want to write this review is the experience I had with them this past week. We've been in Shelter in Place for weeks now and we'll, Easter baskets weren't quite on the top of my list (I usually go to Target and make the baskets that way). But because I didn't want to go in to Target to shop, I contacted Lauren's Closet and they were amazing! I gave them a price point and theme for each of my kids baskets. She made them, sent a photo and I paid via Venmo. Within the half hour she dropped them off to my house! So glad I could support a local business in this trying time. And my kids LOVED the baskets!! read more

Lauren's Closet - Easter baskets! - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Alameda, California

The woman who owns it is really rude. Unwelcoming energy. I asked if they sold masks and she snapped "no we've never sold masks!" And I bought one here a few weeks ago. Ok lady chill please read more

Extremely excellent service! Staff is extremely friendly and kind :) Also a great selection of clothing with good value too !

If I could give negative stars I would. The OWNER IS SUPER RUDE!!! She was even mean to the new girl that she was training. She was talking to her in a condescending way and taking things out of her when she was asking questions:( I felt so bad for her. The not so sweet owner also did not take any of the awesome clothes that I brought in. That's ok.... I won't be back here to shop or to sell. I went right up the street to Mommy's Trading Post at 1205 Lincoln Ave b, Alameda, CA 94501 Phone: (510) 263-8143 And they bought everything except 5 items. I had a whole lot. The ladies that run Mommy's Trading Post are lovely. They are easy going and make you feel welcome. The store is small but has plenty of great stuff in it. GO THERE! Do not spend your money with an ungrateful owner that thinks that she can get away with treating people badly. read more

Tried to go here because my 3 year old nephew wanted to go in. The woman working here didn't even look at us, no hi or hello, only that they are closing. Definitely felt not welcomed. Curious if she is like this to everyone or just us. read more

I wrote a review back in November 2019 for 5 stars based solely off of my experience in the womens/juniors clothing section. At that time, I was a size Small/Medium in tops, a size 4-6 in pants + dresses. I had absolutely no problem finding adorable, affordable clothing items that were great quality and that fit!(I had not checked out the other side of the store with childrens clothing/toys at that time). Now, Since having my second child, I am no longer a small/medium/4-6 but am now in the large/extra large/10-12,(due to a torn ACL right after childbirth I haven't been able to exercise and lose all my baby weight,*not saying that being those sizes is unacceptable! It is just not a size I personally enjoy being*), and now whenever I visit the women's/juniors clothing side I literally can NOT find ANY clothing in those sizes! Anything that I have found there in sizes L/XL +10-12 is ugly and not good quality. It's really unfortunate that the owner/buyer clearly has a stigma about dressing "fat people" aka anyone who isn't a size Small/0-4. Only reason I gave it 3 stars is for the CHILDREN'S SIDE which is flipping awesome! Great clothing and shoes,toys and cute random things. read more

This was a waste of my time. I have decided to never come back here and try to give my clothes to a "good place." I brought in two bags of nice clothes, including abrocrobie and hollister jeans (in great condition). They told me they would take 20 minutes to look at my bags and then call my name. After quietly calling my name, I had to ask if my clothes were done and they simply said "yeah, she didn't want anything." I walked over to pick up my bags of which one she ripped and they only seemed to have even looked through one bag. I do not recommend wasting your time and trying to bring your clothes here. Some of my clothing was much nicer quality than the stuff that was in the store. Very disappointed. read more

I always want to give this local business the benefit of the doubt. They have a good selection of used kids clothes. Cute gifts. But customer service is terrible. I recently brought in a couple bags of clothes to sell. Many with tags on, designer stuff. They took nothing. When I looked at what was in the hangers of their store, it was junky and overly used clothes anyway. Ugh. Brought it to another respected uses clothing store and they bought almost all of it. read more

I wish I had the reviews before shopping in this store. I initially stopped in the store after taking my child to Twirl next door. I noticed they had a great selection of new ballet attire and shoes. I ended up only buying water paints, but the customer service was terrible. The older woman was rude, curt and the whole time I was in the store, it sounded like they were bad mouthing or gossiping another person. We went in today (months later) to get my daughter ballet attire and Lauren's Closet was the only local place I knew had a decent selection of Bloch brand ballet shoes. Upon entering I wasn't greeted or even smiled at. I went upstairs to the dance section and was up there with my toddler a good 20min trying on shoes with no acknowledgement from the staff. I came back down to ask for advice on ballet slipper sizing and was met with attitude from the older woman, like she was annoyed I needed assistance. She rudely deferred me to another woman who was working the other side of their store and had a daughter in ballet. She was helpful and offered to check the sizing of the shoes and suggested we try on the ballet leo I was holding for sizing (saying they run small). After browsing awhile, I went back to the counter to ask for a fitting room and the older woman completely ignored me (impossible to not know I was there considering my chid was beginning to get restless and agitated) and proceed to help someone behind me and send another woman to the other worker behind her. She finished with that person, turned around and went to the other side of the counter, never asking if I needed assistance. I had the friendlier woman help me and as I was paying, another woman (Asian descent) entered the store and asked a question. The older woman was rude to her too, but had been friendly to the Caucasian patrons. I am a POC and hate to say that discrimination was at play but at that point it was completely obvious that was what was going on. On my way out, I pointed out to the older woman that her rudeness and refusal to help me had not gone unnoticed and she tried to play dumb. If it weren't that we need the shoes and leo this week and the time I invested in getting to the store, I would have set everything down and walked out. It's a shame because I prefer to shop and support local when possible, but I won't ever be shopping there again and will be sharing my negative experience with other parents. read more

It wasn't clear from the store description and information on Yelp, but Lauren's Closet only buy & sells maternity brand clothing and baby clothes/gear. I wish the lady would have told me that when I called in. Save me a wasted trip. read more

I rarely go to places worthy of a 0 or 1-star review. However, today I went to Lauren's Closet and it was such a bad experience, that I had to run to Toy Safari and Tucker's Ice Cream to get the ick from Lauren out of my system. And I am not alone. Lauren knows how to wreck a good mood! No I am not expecting her to be Santa Claus, but come on, you are working in a kid's store and you have the personality of a flea. A blood sucking pest is not what I am looking for when I am shopping for children's wear and toys. This is not the first time that I felt terrible when leaving this store. My mother-in-law was surprised that Lauren was rude and unfriendly and even insulting. I agree with fellow Yelpers ... retail is a form of customer service, and Lauren ... you really have a lot to learn. read more

Love this cute little store owned by a local Mama! I come in here often to browse, shop for new treasures for my little one or gifts for others little ones. It is a mix of consignment and new. I've always found the prices to be reasonable and they have such a great selection of toys/ goodies for babes. Plus some really fun treasures for me too, like cookbooks! I'm always welcomed warmly and often end up chatting for a minute with whoever is running the register...I believe most of them are Moms too. :) I really see this as a jewel on park street! read more

Okay: Who finally drank the Coach Kool-Aid (3 pair of cute leopard ballet flats ecluded) and bought a nifty commuter-worthy classic tote with completely rad compartments and organized pocket and compartments for $50? I was puzzled at the price tag, since the bag is almost mint condition - there is just a teeny-tiny bit of wear on the leather corners from being on the display shelf at the Coach Outlet, which is where I learned it was acquired for the shop. Who also bought a pristine J. Crew super-plush deep Navy cropped peacoat top for $15.50? Who did the Happy Dance when she found a Paul Frank pink t-shirt for $12.50 that will look rockin' with jeans and a blazer + chapeau? Me, Myself and I. read more

Lauren's Closet - I drank the Coach Kool Aid. But I love the interior organization. Score! - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Alameda, California

I can't believe I never wrote a review on this place....I agree with the reviews that state that the owner is rude and stuck up. When I walked in she pretended she didn't see me. As I browsed around I got an uncomfortable vibe and turn around to find her just watching me. I thought maybe she was going to ask if I needed assistance, nope she just stared. Now mind you I dress nice and professional and do not think I look like some sort of gang banger or like I'm going to rob her store. I just let myself out of her stinkin' store. Ugh, these kind of people make me sick, in this day and age you would think there wouldn't be so much racism. read more

Made another visit recently to check out the latest offerings, and I have to wonder exactly what superb "taste" the owner apparently has that so many reviewers on here are so adamant about. For one thing, they purged a large amount of their inventory (I'm referring, by the way, to the women's side, not the kid's side of the store), so there's not as much as usual to choose from at the moment, and what remains isn't particularly impressive. I've been coming here for years, and the past three times I've come in the past couple of months I've been more disappointed than ever. What disappoints me the most is the quality of some of the clothes. For a woman who takes so much pride in turning up her nose at what she feels are outdated, worn out clothes, the owner sure doesn't mind including a number of faded, stretched out, hole-ridden, stained items among her inventory. Don't get me wrong, I'm aware this is a place for gently used items, but the key words there are "gently used". And I'm also fascinated by the owner's claims that she only takes the most up to date items, when I've seen shirts and blouses on the racks that I've owned for years now, and are in poor shape. And if the owner truly "buys back what she sells", and if the many different reviews on here are accurate, she wouldn't turn away the exact same clothing she's currently selling that other people are bringing into her, with cop out excuses like "I didn't sell many of those last year." And before the usual overly-sensitive supporters of Lauren's Closet and the owner make the claim that this update is fueled by snark and being disgruntled, I can tell you it's not. It's fueled by a dislike for poor customer service, snobbishness, and bogus claims to ONLY offer the best quality, the best brands, and the most recent fashions, when what they have for sale doesn't always represent those claims. Yes, I've found quite a few great items over the years for cheap, but I'm tired of coming in here and finding item after item of questionable quality. read more

Friendly staff, great prices and they do a great job at gift wrapping. Our favorite toy store on the island.

We got the best used snow clothes for my Kids and boots. Everything was in perfect shape and saved us a ton on purchasing it retail. Our baby is only 7 months and we purchased a few items that will for her in the future as well. Very satisfied. read more

At first my friend and I didn't know this was a second-hand store. Prices were too high for a store like this. If you have been to a Crossroads Trading Company or a Buffalo Exchange, their prices are so much lower and selection was better as far as finding some higher-end brands. Very little, if any selection of purses that we saw. The only difference is that this store has stuff for kids. Received no greeting from the owner/staff. read more

My girls are not 13 and 15. This place was a great go to for birthday gifts actually and kids clothes and even shoes. I never would have considered buying used shows most of the time for my girls, but here, things seem clean and it seemed okay. Over the years, they changed the layout. It is pretty great. Now, there is a a whole dance section upstairs, and a teen section over in the "adult" side of the store. I got my daughter so so many dresses and jackets, sweat pants and things over the years. Especially, when she took ballet nearby and would forget a jacket or pants! They have a great selection all the time. And what I love is everything doesn't look the same. She got a lot of great party dresses. the prices are terrific. My only wish is that they had most tall adult clothes. They seem to focus on small sizes. But really, a great shop, well run and managed over the years. read more

I went to this store despite of the reviews, and I'm glad I did. I thought the staff was really nice, but then again I'm one of those that don't like to be asked for help every 5 mins which is why there hands off approached works with me. It's very CLEAN & ORGANIZED. Trust me I've been to other baby store and this is a very well organized store. Yes the prices are reasonable. Yes some are higher but just keep looking and trust me there's a deal for everyone! I was looking for a jacket for my soon to b baby boy and I was very happy with what I found. =) I will be coming back!!! Only 4 star because of the small selection for infant boy clothing =( but I understand so not a deal breaker. read more

Lauren's Closet - I found a really cute Jack & Janie infant outfit for $6! - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Alameda, California

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Omg I wish I could leave 0 stars. I have been getting clothes here for years, and after this week, I don't even know why they're in business.First, I go in a few days ago and notice all the sizes are like, at the most size 2, and even things that are larges are certainly not for normal sized people. I get they can only get what people give them, but that brings me to today. Today, I went in and had a bag of perfectly good shoes, some jackets, and shirts. They took NONE of it. I'm sorry, am I too fat to even give you clothes? They are super snotty, the women who were looking through the clothes. I have a niece and I've been shopping at Target for her, and I thought oh I should go to Lauren's closet because it's cheaper. Nope. I'll stick with target. read more

Just what I was looking for! A dream for used baby clothes. Great prices and very friendly staff.

I have been regularly going to this store for the past four years, for used children's and maternity clothes. I also have turned in my maternity wardrobe for consignment. The children's selection is well-curated and very inexpensive. The space is small yet filled with good, in-season clothing. The maternity selection is also small but well-curated. My first pregnancy, I literally had tears of joy welling up--a whole wardrobe of flattering clothes for less than the cost of new maternity jeans? Yes! It is unfortunate that this has so many low reviews, especially from people wanting to sell. Selling to secondhand stores is a business relationship, not a friendship, and if there isn't space in a compact shop for what you have to sell, it's not personal. read more

Wow, I hate to say it but I actually feel a tiny bit better after reading everyone else's terrible customer service experiences at this place. I felt like I was being shunned by the woman behind the counter (owner?) from the second I walked in the store. Selection is fine but I absolutely won't buy anything here. read more

Not sure why this place has so many negative reviews... I've been here many times now and have always had great experiences. The staff and very friendly, the selling process is easy and the assortment of 2nd hand and new product is terrific! I've sold baby clothes and kept credit there which is then used when my little guy has done enough chores to earn a trip for a new toy. I love this place!!! read more

I'm not certain what happened to this place I don't believe it should be located in the heart of Alameda as it doesn't compliment Alameda. I was raised in Alameda and take pride for that. Every single person INCLUDING the owner need a personality check! Rude and looks at people as if we are asking for a handout. VERY SAD that this ONCE was a very nice place to bring in clothes that are delicately used and purchase as well. For the last few years now each time I refer or even swing by I can't express anymore than unfortunately do a YELP Review - As a owner you should speak to your staff and take courses of how to treat people ESPECIALLY customers! WORD of mouth is the #1 referral and I always refer to your place but that will now stop. REMINDER that CUSTOMER SERVICE GOES A LONG WAY BUT FIRST STARTS AT THE TOP! Good luck read more

I mostly go here to shop for my 18 month old son. Their used shoe selection is actually quite good for the price. Of course there is more of a selection for girl clothes than boy clothes but that is almost at every store. The adult side is mostly for tiny females (size xs and small is usually what they carry). It's mostly clothes from GAP, Hollister or items from Ross which are now overpriced, especially for being a consignment store. I've read the other reviews on the owner, I'm usually greeted by the other person working even if the owner is there. If she rings me up she is pleasant, but not personable. I would imagine you would want to get to know your clientele especially if you have seen me in there quite often and I always make a good purchase. read more

I understand why this business has bad reviews. It's because Lauren's Closet is a lot like Lauren and not everyone who shops/sells there is. Basically, If you are petite "all-american" woman who likes to work out , diet and wear middle of the road brands that you might find at a local shopping mall then this place is for you. You can find a decent pair of used name brand jeans up to (maybe a size 29). The accessories are sometimes interesting. I wouldn't sell here if you are a Medium/ Large build. They don't purchase anything large because of "the size of the racks". In fairness, it is a small store. Although, it does not make normal-sized women feel good about themselves . It's simply not a great marketing campaign. One redeeming quality is that everything is affordably priced . If you do find something you like, it will be a steal. read more

Lauren's Closet is great if you're buying, but certainly not if you are selling. I've gotten to know Lisa (owner) and her staff over the years and yes, she and the rest of them can use a refresher on Customer Service. Lisa can be nice at times, but she still happens to come across as condescending with her tone and demeanor. Her staff; particularly Anne can be very rude at times. Again, they are nicer people once you get to know them on a regular basis, but they don't know how to communicate effectively. And they are not very helpful, unless you vocalize a concern or have question then they'll be more helpful. Once, I needed to ask Lisa (the owner) if she could help me measure my son's feet for a pair of shoes and all she did was hand me a foot measuring tool instead of actually helping us out. Second, when Lisa found out I was expecting my second child, she even had the audacity to ask if I only went back to work to reap my maternity leave benefits! Frankly, I was appalled by her insensitive and rude question. The only way I can somewhat justify her remark was that I was a regular customer and we spoke about our personal lives, but even my closets friends wouldn't speak to me with such condescension and inferiority. Overall, as a extremely loyal patron of her local business for over the years, I have had some amazing deals on amazing articles of clothing. Majority of my merchandise have been gently-used or just brand-new. Again, I would only come to this establishment if you are BUYING and NOT SELLING. Lauren's Closet staff treats their clientele based on the transaction type. They are extremely selective with their buying choices and they hardly deviate from the following brands for Women: Banana Republic, Gap, Old Navy, J. Crew, Tom's, Forever 21, H & M, North Face, Zara and Abercrombie and Fitch. For Children's apparel: Baby Gap, Hanna Anderson, Polo Ralph Lauren, Cat & Jack, Old Navy, Zara, See Kai Run, Stride Ride, and a few miscellaneous European brands. Lauren's Closet is a great for buying and in a very ideal location, and frankly, I think that's why her business has been successful for the past 30 years. Don't expect the best customer service, but do expect amazing deals on mainstream women's fashion apparel and also on children's clothes. read more

I always make it a point to support local businesses but I have to cut ties with this place seriously! I've shopped here many times, as a buyer and seller. As a buyer, it's hit or miss as many people mention but in the past, I've found some cute stuff. As a seller, they couldn't suck more even if they tried. It's bad. I've sold here on several occasions but today... I'm compelled to write a review. Are we wondering why this place has such poor reviews? The reviews do not lie!!! Especially about the head woman in charge... The owner/manager is a white Caucasian middle aged woman, shoulder length blonde hair and she is most definitely in the WRONG BUSINESS!!! She does not greet guests or say hello, doesn't make eye contact, doesn't smile and constantly looks annoyed by employees and customers. She looks absolutely miserable and you can feel the vibes. I'm calling you out lady: families come to YOUR store to sell THEIR clothes! They could choose to sell anywhere else in the Bay Area but they choose this 2 star store. YOU need our business so that you can thrive. Change your attitude and change it quick! How about a smile? A hello? A thank you? And look the hell up at your paying customers-- That's the least you can do when they support YOUR business! read more

I just want to Echo many of the reviews about their poor customer services. Particular when you are there to sell your used clothes to them. They will always make you wait for at least 20-30 mins even when there is no one shopping at the store. Then they will come back telling you they are not interested in buying with all kinds of reasons. I would be okay if they could just tell me right away instead of making me wait. read more

Love this place I highly recommend. Perfect place to shop and sell for kids especially that they are constantly growing and why not get some gently used and sometimes new clothes at an awesome price read more

I have bought a few items from this store for my girls. I had a few items that they never worn or wore less then 5 times. Well I thought it'd be nice to give them over to Lauren's Closet. 1. I was told that the items need to be folded neatly and ironed, which I did. The items were just thrown back in the bag. 2. They said they needed summer items, all the items I brought were summer and half of them still had tags. I obtained these from my baby shower and my daughter which was spring and now she is too big. They stated they didn't need any items. What do you need? Because I did everything as required!! The items on the shelf are not that nice to be turning away brand new clothes that came from a smoke free home. Very disappointed with the customer service and discrimination. read more

DON'T SUPPORT THIS BUSINESS. They are building a track record of discriminating against People of Color!!! I called to confirm that they were indeed looking to buy women's clothes prior to coming in. Not only did these people failed to look thru my clothes after and then failed to inform me that they were done PRETENDING to look through my clothing. I waited and waited for them to call my name, 1 hour and $ for parking goes by. Everything was in the exact same order as when i brought them in -- meaning THEY DIDN'T TOUCH A SINGLE THING. Furthermore, they literally just bought clothes from a white female prior to me. They are not inclusive. A horrible waste of time & space. They can go. read more

Best store ever! Great selection of designer brands & incredible customer service. I am so happy I went into this establishment & was able to find so many great designer items for the most affordable prices out there. I went in at 6:05 on a Friday night thinking they closed at 7,(they close at 6), & the owner was kind enough to keep the store open & told me to shop as long as I wanted to. Not only that, but she went above and beyond to help me find the perfect outfit for my party tonight. I'm so glad I spent my money at this local gem. Prices are unbeatable, huge variety of great quality clothing, & superb customer service. Can't wait to go back! Thanks Lauren's Closet! read more