February 23, 2006

Rustle up some rodeo wear on a budget

Every February, Houstonians survey their closets for something to kick up their heels in at RodeoHouston. More than a few will find their wardrobes need help, and the city's resales shops are perfect places to cowgirl up while spending less.

Twice New, a consignment boutique at 2005 W. Gray, has a loyal following of shoppers, thanks to 18 years of business. Rodeo finds, including plenty of pieces from the Double D label, fill the store. Beautiful skirts that would work well with a simple turtleneck and bold jewelry hang alongside vests and jackets.

During a recent visit, I found a studded velvet vest for $98 that could be worn during rodeo and after. Twice New's boot selection includes plenty of embellished leather pairs, marked half off retail prices.

Down the street at B'Dazzled, 1945 W. Gray, I came across Lucky Brand jeans for $38 and a killer pair of knee-high suede boots in black, which could add some urban to any cowgirl look, for $98.
Marcia Cummings, the store's personal shopper, said women are mixing up their rodeo looks this year as they deal with the warmer temperatures.

"They are taking cotton tops and pairing them with skirts and denim," Cummings said. "You can put together some awesome looks without all of the traditional leather."

Chunky, oversized belts that are hot for spring and into next fall are $29.95 at B'Dazzled, and Brighton fans will be pleased to see a wide selection of belts from $26 to $35.

Store owner Debbie Damon travels to Sante Fe, N.M., throughout the year, and her jewelry cases are stocked with intricate turquoise, opal and silver pieces. Damon puts a $75 price tag on earrings that retail for $150, and necklaces that sell for $400 elsewhere run $175. B'Dazzled also has plenty of Tony Llama boots in lizard, for around $145.

Don't despair, cowboys; you have options, too. Men's Resale by the Village, 2437 Bissonnet, has a healthy selection of Western vests in sizes small to 2XL for $29.95. A few Western dusters and jackets have come through the store but, as it is with hot items, they go quickly. Tip: If you're looking for something specific, it never hurts to call owner Lily Lee and ask her to keep an eye out. Lee anticipates a truckload of refurbished Tony Llama boots from a local consigner any day now.

Savvy Houstonians looking to spend less on rodeo boots start their search at Texas Junk Co., 215 Welch. An ode to all things Texan, this spot is the place to find boots already broken in and ready to wear. The selection includes all sizes, and prices start as low as $35.

January 31, 2006

Catching up with B'Dazzled resale boutique

B'Dazzled has a little something for everyone right about now. Shoppers will find major discounts throughout the resale boutique on West Gray.

Items in the store dated October and November are marked 75 percent off; items dated December are marked 50 percent off. Sweaters, suits, shoes and even ski clothes are part of the sale.

For those planning for prom, B'Dazzled has a new shipment of more than 200 new, as in never been worn, designer gowns. The only thing altered on these dresses are the prices, which are 50 percent less than retail. I just happened to be in the store last year when a slew of beautiful dresses walked through the door, and the quality was excellent.

For those looking for formal wear of a different kind, say something in white to be worn in June, B'Dazzled also recently received a shipment of 50 new wedding dresses, with price tags still attached. The boutique is selling the dresses for 50 percent less than suggested retail.

So, let's recap. Winter clothing marked up to 75 percent off, brand new prom dresses marked 50 percent off and a sparkling array of deeply discounted wedding gowns. I only have two words for you: Happy Shopping!

Details: B'Dazzled, 1945 West Gray. 713-387-2525.

Posted by Heather Staible at January 31, 2006 12:00 AM