Gerri's Closet is in bloom with the freshest spring styles for way less
By Beth Newcomb
Spring has sprung, at Gerri’s Closet. “The weather outside may still be touch and go, but here spring has definitely come into full bloom,” says the delightful Gerri Talevich, the warm and gracious owner of one of the most popular consignment shops in Northern Ohio.
“We’ve been accepting spring for some time, so we’re already stocked with tons of gorgeous merchandise. Some of it has never been worn, and most of it is name brand.”
Gerri’s specializes in offering mall and boutique brand clothing and accessories for a fraction of regular retail. During my recent visit, there was a ton of Tory Burch nestled alongside the likes of Coach, Steve Madden, Adidas, Banana Republic, Chicos and, my favorite shoe brand, Sam Edelman.
As usual, it’s hard for me to concentrate on what Gerri is saying.
I just want to shop.
But I’m here to find out what’s in store, so that you can do the same. My wandering eye will have to be contained for the time being.
“Yesterday I put 600 new pieces on the floor,” Gerri beams. “Sometimes I put up to 1,000 pieces out in a day. We take whatever is in season, and we’re always looking for new consigners.”
To consign with Gerri’s Closet, you don’t need an appointment. Simply visit the store during business hours, Monday through Friday, with 25 items or less and you’re in. Gerri’s accepts new, like-new and gently used clothing, accessories—including handbags, shoes and jewelry—as well as on-trend home goods and small furnishings. Items are kept for 90 days and the split between you and the store is 50-50. You can donate what you don’t sell to Haven of Rest, or pick your items up.
To buy from Gerri’s, she recommends at least a monthly visit so you don’t miss out on the season’s must-haves offered at a fraction of regular retail price. There is always a sale rack with rotating items that represent an even bigger bargain.
Sometimes you can score one-time deals, like the new merchandise I saw from a local boutique that went out of business. The trick is to put the store in your shopping rotation and visit often.
“We have regulars who shop with us and bring their out-of-state friends and relatives with them whenever they come to town,” Gerri says. “We’re a destination they have to hit.”
Gerri’s talented sales team makes it easy to grab a look you love. They create stunning displays featuring an assortment of beautifully paired items then regularly tear them down so customers can buy the entire ensemble.
In an effort to keep her offerings appealing to women representing every size on the spectrum, Gerri has expanded her women’s department that includes sizes 16 and up, and the home décor department continues to grow.
The in-store selection includes everyday apparel as well as workout wear, scrubs and dresses. Sheer vests are a trend for spring, and Gerri’s has several to choose from. Coral accessories paired with just about anything are super hot right now, as are the agate pendants on display. And there is no shortage of new gift items, like candle, soaps and hats.
“We offer a well-rounded selection that spans most styles and sizes,” she says. “Just when I think the store can’t get any better, it does.”
Gerri’s Closet is located at 4195 Massillon Road in Uniontown (in the city of Green). Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The phone number is 330-896-8141 and the web address is GerrisCloset.com. The Facebook page is very active, with posts of new merchandise happening almost hourly.