INTERVIEW #156 EVA DAYTON
Name: Eva Dayton
Occupation: Founder + Owner of CONSIGNMENT BROOKLYN
Based in: Brooklyn, NEW YORK
Website: www.consignmentbrooklyn.com
Instagram: @consignmentbrooklyn & @evadayton
Hi Eva! Welcome to A Sustainable Closet! Can you please tell us more about yourself and how you got into second-hand clothing?
My name is Eva Dayton, I have LOVED and shopped second-hand clothing since I was a little girl. I’m fully obsessed with ALL FASHION and FASHION MAGAZINES. It was my first LOVE! I have always worked in fashion, from selling shoes to being a visual merchandiser for TOP DESIGNERS in New York City. I love to work! The industry has changed so much since I started and it’s still changing every day. Second-hand is very popular now and the good stuff goes fast. I started my business in 1999 and have weathered many New York storms. The key is to: 1. Stay focused 2. Look at the small picture and look at the big picture 3. For me, it’s inside me and it’s what I love 4. Keep thinking, keep dreaming, and don’t give up! 5. It’s not easy, but what is? 6. My last bit, work in your business, get to know the clients and talk to them.
Why did you start Consignment Brooklyn?
I said SO much above but here’s a little more: I love this industry, but do not see myself as a business owner, in fact, I had no idea how to run a business or a company, and my background is in visual merchandising, but I had a vision, a dream and I figured it out. There was no plan as I say. Back in 1998/1999, I was living in Brooklyn, New York in a 5th-floor walk-up. That’s where I started. No phone, no social media and no website. I got a small space and a few small designers and I went for it. It’s definitely been a long haul!
How do you source the items you sell or how does the model work?
We (CBK) have over 16000 consignors now. They make appts for selling and we pick what we think we can sell.
For those who would like to start buying more luxury second-hand, what should they keep in mind?
My advice is; if you LOVE it and want it, buy it! We have one of everything and that next person that walks into the shop could buy it right away and then you would miss it!
Can you please tell us more about your personal style and interest in clothes?
I’m pretty easygoing. I love JEANS and wear a ton of black! I’m running around all day, every day so I like to be comfy! A blazer, leather jacket, cashmere knits and 98% solid clothing. I do love a ruffle top with high-waisted pants on occasion.
Finally, when should one know if a vintage luxury bag is a good investment or not?
When shopping for a vintage bag, make sure it’s everything you want. Shop smart, esp if you're spending top dollar for it. I bought a vintage Bottega and I wear it five days a week. It’s the best bag ever, for me.
Anything else you want to share?
My rule is, if I add something to my closet, I must sell something. Less is More!
