Start with an initial clean-out so that you can actually see all of the clothes that you have. Take a quick look at each item so that you get an idea of all the pieces that have accumulated over the past few years and if you see clothes with stains or tears, you can immediately eliminate those pieces by putting them in a throwaway pile. This initial clean should not take up too much of your time because it’s meant to get rid of the clothing pieces you are certain you’ll never wear again.

Now that you can focus on the remaining pieces, you need to ask yourself; when was the last time I wore this? Look through your clothes and be honest about this because it will determine whether you should keep something or get rid of it. Generally, if you haven’t worn something in a year or longer, the chances are you will not miss it so go ahead and part with it. It’s easy to get carried away and hang on to certain pieces thinking you may wear them down the road but the reality is that if you haven’t reached for it in the past year, you’re not likely to wear it and it’s just taking up space in your closet.

If you’re having trouble letting go of certain pieces, ask yourself more questions like do I really love this piece? Does it make me feel good when I wear it? Does it bring me happiness? Do I love how it looks on my figure? These types of questions will help you make a better decision so that you don’t fall into the cycle of keeping everything but never wearing them. Don’t take price into consideration and keep only the clothes that you love because they genuinely bring you joy.

Personal style evolves over time, so you need to figure out if the clothes you’re keeping add to your sense of style. Some pieces may no longer complement or suit your change in style and it’s very natural to reinvent yourself and to experience growth in this regard, so keep this aspect in mind when sorting through your remaining clothes. 

Organizing and clearing out your closet will make room for other items you’re interested in and once you have space, Extoggery in Toronto is the clothing store you need to check out. There are hundreds of fashion clothing stores but none of them carry our beautiful selection of designer consignment items, so if you’re ready to add a couple of new things to your closet this year, visit our location!

The post The Wardrobe Detox: 4 Tips for Cleaning Out Your Closet appeared first on Extoggery.

Cotton

The softness and breathability of cotton are the two primary reasons for why it’s such a sought after fabric in the clothing industry. If you live in a cold place or it’s cold outside, cotton is often the best material to utilize specifically for these basic needs. Cotton is not an ideal material as it pertains to athletic-wear because of the discomfort it can lead to. If cared for the right way, cotton will soften over time.

Polyester

The best option for something that’s stretchable and doesn’t wrinkle easily is probably polyester. In fact, polyester is in most articles of clothing in some capacity. It’s one of the tougher fabrics, making it ideal for work clothes and school uniforms.

Tri-blends

A fresh new face in the fabric world, tri-blends, are half polyester, a quarter rayon and a quarter spun cotton. Keep in mind that tri-blends are more expensive than cotton, but it’s safe to say you get the bang for your buck, due to the fact that it is extra soft and moisture-wicking.

Fleece

When it’s cold, fleece is usually the best you can get. It’s moisture-wicking and provides warmth comparable to wool. Today, the most common type of fleece is polyester fleece, which is frequently used in hiking and outdoor clothing. If you want to screen print on the fleece, be prepared to empty out your wallet. A lot of ink is required and simpler designs are recommended.

Jersey

Popular due to its stretchiness and lightweight feel, the jersey is used most for undergarments, leisurewear, sportswear and sometimes even dressier clothing. It’s ideal for traveling and is very good with hot water. It’s not delicate, unlike silk.

Knit

Knits are more flexible than most fabrics. It can be found in socks, scarves, hats, and mittens. Knit came about in 1916 when Coco Chanel introduced it and it’s been a staple in the fashion industry ever since.

Rayon

Due to the process of creating rayon, it can often imitate the feel of natural fabrics like linen, cotton, silk, or fine wool. It’s the perfect material for women’s clothing, especially tops and dresses. It’s used in stockings and is more durable, so it’s a good fabric for workwear.

Spandex

Spandex is primarily seen in leggings because of how stretchy the material is. It’s also used in underwear, athletic wear, hosiery, dance clothes, and in clothing that’s often seen in night clubs. Due to the stretchiness of the material, it’s also ideal in swimwear and bras. If you have any questions regarding fabrics and their purposes, you can come to visit Extoggery on 10 Brentcliffe Rd, East York or you can call us at (416)-696-6700.

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Below we list 10 key pieces and why you need them in your wardrobe. 

• Black Pants
  

  We all love leggings. They are comfortable and quick, but they are also very casual. A pair of black pants will be great to have for work, or when you’re going out with friends and want to look put together. You can pair them with a nice pair of flats for a more casual look or dress them up with heels for a night on the town. 

• White Tee
  

  Whether it’s a crew neck or a v-neck, a good quality white shirt is a key for your wardrobe. This is a great layering piece and can be worn throughout the seasons. Whether you want to wear it with your jeans or tuck it into a pencil skirt, the options are endless.

• Your Own Version of an LBD
  

  A little black dress was meant to be the dress you can grab for any occasion from weddings to the business presentation. The great thing about it is that it is iconic and adaptable. Having a dress with those qualities in any colour will ensure that you are ready for anything. 

• Sneakers
  

  Having a great pair of sneakers can elevate your closet. The days of only wearing your sneakers for workouts or casual Fridays are gone. Now, in less conservative offices, you can wear your suit with sneakers or with a jumpsuit.

• A Signature Piece
  

  Whether it is a faux fur coat or a bright coloured bag, a statement piece says something about you. Finding your statement piece doesn’t happen overnight, so don’t feel pressured to find it as you’re re-organizing your closet. 

• Pumps
  

  A classic pair of pumps will never fail you. They are great for work, and you can throw them with your personalized LBD for a night out. 

• Flats

  If you aren’t a fan of heels, flats will be a great alternative for you. They look fantastic and can take you from a board meeting to a grocery run. 

• Ankle Boots
  

  Ankle boots look great with everything from jeans to party dresses. You can never go wrong finishing your outfit off with some ankle boots. 

• Leather Jacket
  

  A leather jacket acts as a great transitional piece. 

• Dark Wash Jeans
  

  Dark wash denim is perfect for dressing up or down in any season. The style and cut should be suited for your body type.

The key to having a great wardrobe is to have versatile pieces. Being able to mix and match your clothes allows you to get the most use of them while being environmentally conscious. It’s ultimately a win for you and the environment. For all of your wardrobe needs, come into the best designer consignment store in Toronto today!

The post Wardrobe Basics Checklist: 10 Key Pieces You Shouldn’t Live Without appeared first on Extoggery.

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What you may not know is that brand new clothes don’t always mean clean or hygienically manufactured clothes. New clothes contain chemicals in the dye such as formaldehyde to brighten the colour and texture that can cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin.

Clothes bought from thrift stores at bargain prices are often coloured with azo-aniline dyes that can cause severe allergies or skin irritation in children. Unkempt dressing rooms to try on brand new clothes are also a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses that are transferred from person to person. It is important to wash new clothes, especially undergarments, t-shirts, shorts or nightgowns, before wearing them.

Children’s clothes must be washed well with gentle, fragrance-free products because their skin is particularly sensitive. Washed brand new clothes, bed linen and bath towels often turn softer and more comfortable after a wash. Excess dye doesn’t transfer on to your skin or damage other fabrics that are in direct contact with them in your closet or washing machine. There is a particular way to wash brand new clothes to keep them in good condition. Here are a few helpful tips to remove unwanted odours and chemicals from brand new clothes:

How to Remove Odours from Brand New Clothes

• Soak the clothes in a bucket filled with lukewarm water overnight.

• Add 1 cup of baking soda before you wash.

• Add 1 cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove detergent or fabric softener fragrances if there are allergies to scents in the family.

• Air dry the freshly washed clothes outdoors.

How to Reduce Colour Bleeding in Brand New Clothes

Chemicals are sometimes applied to clothes to prevent mildew from moisture exposure. Sometimes excessive dye is used to enhance brightness. Bleeding, chemical laden clothes can ruin other clothes while washing so clean them separately with these tricks.

• Read the washing instructions on the label before cleaning brand new clothes.

• Wash the garments separately the first time to remove excess dye.

• If you have several new clothes to wash, separate the white or lighter coloured clothes from the darker ones to avoid the latter to bleed colour into the lighter fabrics.

• Wash whites in hot water and coloured garments in cold water to avoid fading, shrinking or wrinkles.

• Turn jeans and coloured t-shirts with motifs inside out before washing.

• Air dry the clothes outdoors in your yard or balcony instead of tossing them in the dryer the first time.

• Use a high-quality detergent and unscented fabric softener if you wish to keep them soft and odour-free.

Extoggery – Designer Consignment Clothing Store

When it comes to brand new clothes, quality makes a big difference. High-end brands do not bleed colour, fade with every wash or absorb unwanted scents. If you are conscious about using hygienically manufactured products that hold up well for years, designer brands are the best and safest.

Toronto-based Extoggery is an upscale consignment clothing store that specializes in high-end branded outfits and accessories, including everything that is designer consignment. We offer only the highest quality, hand-picked items that are manufactured in stringently hygienic conditions. Check out our store for designer clothes from Armani to Rebecca Taylor, shoes, purses, belts or jewellery. Our clothing specialists are experts in appraising and examining only the best pieces for you. We have a wide selection of branded clothing and accessories. Our collection is refreshed often so each time you visit you will find something new. Check out our website to browse through our colourful collection.

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Make a Quilt
Do you have a lot of old sweaters that you’re never going to wear? Then instead of tossing them into a landfill, spend your weekend knitting them together into a cozy and one-of-a-kind quilted blanket. Even if you have the most basic of sewing skills, you can create a patchwork quilt to be envied.

Multipurpose Bag
Whether it’s a small crossbody bag, a makeup pouch or a large tote, you can turn almost any article of clothing into a multipurpose bag. It’s an easy do-it-yourself project that has endless possibilities.

Throw Pillows
So you can’t find the perfect throw pillows for your bed or couch. What do you do? Find an old pair of pants or fuzzy socks and make your own! All you need to do is sew your pieces together, use older, less attractive clothing as stuffing, and you’ve got yourself a cozy throw pillow.

Make Something New
One easy way to repurpose old clothing is to turn it into an entirely new piece. If you aren’t a fan of the sleeves on an old sweater or the length of a pair of pants or a shirt, those can easily be altered, either by you or a professional. Look at all your options before donating older clothing or ripping it to shreds to craft something else entirely.

Shag Rugs
If you’re in the market for a small accent rug to brighten up a room, don’t go out and buy one. Instead, look for an old sweater or shirt that you can turn into a shaggy rug in a snap. There are several ways you can do this, through crocheting, sewing, knotting or using an embroidery hoop.

Air Fresheners
Whether it’s an old pair of socks or another article of clothing, you can make your own air fresheners in a short amount of time. A sock being the easiest thing to fill, dump in some herbs or fragrant potpourri before sewing up the open end. Now you have a fragrant pouch that can be tossed into your closet or anywhere that needs a bit of freshening up.

Compost it
Older clothes are made from more natural sources than what’s produced today. As organic materials, cotton, wool and silk can actually be composted or used for mulch in new garden beds. It’s an effective way to get rid of clothes without dumping them in a landfill and adding more waste to the planet.

If you aren’t the craftiest person, then consider stopping by our Toronto consignment store to sell your old clothes and browse through our stock. At Extoggery, we’re one of Toronto’s top consignment stores, featuring high-quality designer clothes from a variety of brands. For an affordable price, we have brand-name apparel, shoes, jewellery, purses and much more. With options for everyone, be sure to stop by our consignment store anytime!

The post 7 Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Clothing appeared first on Extoggery.

Khaki and Green
It’s no secret that military colour schemes heavily influence menswear, especially when it comes to khaki and green clothing. This is one of the best colour combinations for men, as the camouflage like appearance gives off an outdoorsy vibe while still looking put together.

Burgundy and Brown
Deep burgundy reds paired alongside a light, warm-toned brown will make you look like a scholar without much effort. This rich combination will create a classic look that screams fashion.

Black and White
A classic colour combo among the fashion world, you can never go wrong with wearing black and white. The high contrasting colours create an elegant and clean appearance.

Grey and Black
An underutilized colour combination, black and grey together create a softer contrast when compared to black and white outfits. This produces a more casual appearance that’s easier on the eyes, especially on a daily basis.

Grey and Pink
Edgy yet sensitive, this colour combination can say a lot about you. The muted grey paired with a pale or pastel pink can create an unexpected and classic outfit.

Wearing Orange
Orange has always been a difficult colour to pull off, but we’ve found a way to make the bold colour work for you. As oranges demand attention, look for a rustic orange and pair it with a few neutrals.

Wearing Yellow
If you want to try adding hints of yellow to your everyday look, then lean towards mustard shades as opposed to bright or neon yellows. Paired with neutral colours, you’ll have a fun outfit that doesn’t drown out your personality.

Combos to Avoid

Green and Orange
This is another colour combination to skip out on altogether. The neutrality of the green paired with the loudness of the orange doesn’t go hand in hand for an everyday look. Green can’t be dulled down by other colours like traditional neutrals can.

Brown and Black
While these might seem like great neutrals to pair with one another, black and brown together can give too much of a vintage, pauper appeal that isn’t easy to pull off.

Purple and Yellow
There’s an easy answer for why you shouldn’t pair purple and yellow together: they don’t pair well together. No matter the shades of yellow and purple you choose, yellows always end up looking too bright against purple.

Extoggery is one of Toronto’s top consignment stores, featuring high-quality designer clothes from all kinds of brands. With designer apparel, shoes, jewellery, purses and more at an affordable price, we guarantee you’ll find something at our consignment clothing store. With pieces for both men and women, be sure to stop by anytime!

The post Colour Matching Guide for Men’s Outfits appeared first on Extoggery.

Leather Satchel
One of the most essential handbags, it has a medium to large top handle so that it can hold almost anything you would need like a book or tablet. Choose one in a neutral colour like dark brown or black so that stains and scuffs will not be as noticeable. You will use this bag quite a bit so it will get worn in quickly. Steer clear of types that are adorned with too much hardware or logos as it can make your bag look dated.

Day Clutch
If you can deal with cutting things out of your bag, then the day clutch can be a cute and light option. Try picking one with multiple pockets so you can use the most of what little space you have in there. These bags come in so many different styles that you can play around with colours and materials you usually wouldn’t pick.

Crossbody Purse
A favourite, this bag gives you the freedom to fully use your hands while you are out and about. It also helps that it looks much chicer than a backpack and has a sturdy shape. Pick a medium-sized one as small ones are not as functional, and large ones can be hard to carry around.

Evening Clutch
Most of us need an evening clutch at some point, so don’t wait until the night before a big event to find one. A simple metallic or black satin clutch is your most versatile options. This bag should be as seasonal as possible so that you can use it for any event and hold onto it for years to come.

Straw Basket
This bag can be your go-to during the warmer months and act as a carry-all while also being a little more playful than your other bags. Jane Birkin, the style icon of the ’70s, made it iconic before Hermès honoured her with their signature Birkin bag.

Medium Shoulder Bag
Shoulder bags can look both sophisticated and sleek as well as sport – perfect for daily use on the go. Textured suede or rich leather make it look luxe and are ideal materials for fall and winter, but a canvas fabric is perfect for spring or summer.

Chic Tote
One of the most practical bags you can get is a tote bag. It is ideal for carrying around anything you would need such as your makeup bag, wallet and laptop. They are handy for when you are headed out the door in a rush and need something to throw everything into without resorting to a grocery bag.

Casual Day Bag
You can use this bag to store all of your day-to-day items while also showing off your style. There are plenty of options to choose from like a sporty messenger or a slouchy hobo bag.

Coloured Bag
While black does go with everything, it can get a bit dull. Give yourself the option to change up your look with a pop of colour. Pick a shade that is opposite to the colours you usually wear to create contrast or in the same colour group. A red bag, for example, looks striking with dark blue jeans or a bright yellow top. You can also use a coloured bag to break up a neutral-toned outfit.

Iconic Bag
No one needs a designer bag but everyone should invest in one anyway. Many high-end brands hold their value years afterwards and can suite several outfits and occasions, making them a practical choice as well.

If you are looking to invest in an iconic piece of fashion history, stop by Extoggery. We have a wide selection of reasonably-priced luxury handbags.

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Midi Skirt
Forget the mini skirt this summer, midi skirts are the new summer essential for any closet. It’s flattering and stylish while also being incredibly comfortable and keeps you cool. This versatile piece can be paired with flats during the day and heels for a night out.

Double Strapped Shoes
A pair of two-strap flirty heels is a classic look that won’t leave your feet sweaty. This is the best time of the year to swap out your pumps or booties for a pair of strappy sandals. You won’t have to worry about your feet overheating and your legs will go on for days.

Crop Tops
A simple way to elevate any summer outfit, grab yourself an assortment of sleek crop tops and pair them with whatever you want. They go particularly well with high-waisted slip skirts or nicely tailored trousers. Or throw one on with some jeans shorts and high-top shoes and you have a staple outfit that will never go out of style.

Slip Skirts
Did someone say slip skirts? Because they’re another staple that your summer wardrobe desperately needs. This breezy and feminine skirt type was made to keep you cool on those hot summer days. Pair it with a rocker t-shirt during the day or an embroidered crop top for a night out.

White T-shirt
While this might not be the most exciting addition to your summer collection, it’s definitely the most versatile piece you’ll own. A basic white tee can be paired with anything and still look good. A slip skirt or dress, jeans, black pants, over a maxi dress, you can’t go wrong with this staple.

Denim Jacket
Even though you won’t need many outerwear pieces during the warm summer days, a denim jacket is a nightly essential for any morning or evening outings. It’s a classic design that will go well with various outfit choices. Once the temperature drops, throw it over your shoulders and you’re all set.

Boyfriend Jeans
Boyfriend jeans are a summer essential the way skinny jeans are best suited for winter time. Comfortable and casual, these relaxed jeans give off the perfect summer vibes. Make sure you go for a lighter shade of blue though, to keep it in the summer season.

Shirt Dress
You could be heading to work or an evening out with friends when you choose to rock a shirt dress. It’s an excellent choice for a simple yet chic summer look. Stay cool while looking effortless and elegant.

At Toronto’s top consignment store, Extoggery provides customers with high-quality designer clothes at an affordable price. Stocked with men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, accessories, bags and more, our consignment clothing store is your one-stop-shop for any summer essentials. With brand-named items at every turn, be sure to stop by anytime!

The post How to Dress up for Summer appeared first on Extoggery.

• When the owner relinquishes the ownership of the physical goods (bags, clothes, toys, books, etc.)
• When is the owner paid
• Whether someone helps the owner to sell items

Consignment
A consignment store is a store where the shop sells merchandise for the owner. It means that the shop acts as a middleman, taking goods or clothes from the owner and then displaying it in their stores for sale. If the good or clothes are purchased by someone, the shopkeeper passes on a small part of the profit to the owner. If not, the owner can come and collect their wares without any fee or even opt to donate it. Most consignment stores charge a standard fee for keeping your clothes in their shop for sale and selling the item. For instance, if you consign to sell a flower vase for 10 dollars, the consignment shop will sell it and keep 50% ($5) as their fee. If your vase doesn’t sell you can simply take it home for no charge.

There are two consignment options for sellers. The first is to go to your local consignment store and drop off your clothes, accessories etc., or you can also participate in weekend consignment sales which are often held in public malls. Every consignment shop has a separate set of policies. It is best to search for a consignment shop in Toronto based on what policies they have and how best they can work in your favour. If you are wondering how does a consignment store make sure that you get your due? When you visit the store, the items will have a separate identification code attached to them that will identify you as the owner.

Consignment shops
Consignment shops are locally owned businesses with a mom-and-pop feel. They set their own terms for how their consignments work, so it’s important to research the store policies before committing. When you visit the store, the items will have an identification code on the tag to identify which account gets credit for the sale.

Consignment store- Buyer’s perspective
From a buyer’s perspective, consignment stores are a great place to shop for high-end brands at great deals. Although consignment stores have used items, they are usually branded or even designer items which have been gently used and well taken care of. If you visit a top consignment store in Toronto, like Extoggery for instance, you can be sure to find even top brands like Armani, Rebbeca Taylor, Hugo Boss, etc. in their collection of items at unbelievable prices. If you are more of a seller than a buyer, Extoggery has great policies for selling your unwanted items and you can be sure to earn a good profit for your clothes. If you want to buy or sell high-end well-maintained clothes accessories or just about anything, call us today and our staff will be happy to help you.

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