The RealReal

The RealReal, has completely upended the consignment store concept, first with their e-commerce platform and then with the opening of their brick-and-mortar store. Julie Wainwright, who founded the website out of her home in 2011, decided to open a permanent SoHo location after seeing the success of a pop-up in 2016. Similarly to the way you search the site, you can sift through an edit of archival Comme des Garçons, vintage Cartier, and iconic Hermés, but the in-store experience provides additional services, and the ability to feel and try on the pieces. Wainwright says, “I hope customers appreciate the community element of the store, including the workshops, cafe, flower shop and the unique services we offer: free authentication and appraisal, tailors, repairs and more.” To help add a bit of context, the store features note cards scattered about with brief history lessons of iconic bags and designer bios.