What’s better than finding a gorgeous haute couture piece at a great price?
Knowing that half of the sale benefits a nonprofit organization! Couture for a Cause, located in Brentwood, TN, is a high-end resale boutique that accepts donations of haute couture. Every sale benefits a nonprofit chosen by the original donor. You’ll find everything from designer jeans to evening gowns, all affordably priced. For this week’s Shop Local feature, we had the pleasure of interviewing Couture for a Cause’s owner, Patricia Apple.
Patricia Apple
Have you always had a passion for fashion?
Yes, I’ve always loved fashion! I really enjoyed finding beautiful clothes for my daughters, but I also learned to tame my taste to fit my budget. I realized early on that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get quality clothing.
Couture For A Cause
What inspired you to open Couture for a Cause?
Many different things inspired me to start Couture for a Cause. My background is in marketing, so I started with a working knowledge of cause marketing and fundraising events. I also love to work with people who are making a difference, which was something that was always very important to my parents. I wanted to do something in their memory that would leave a legacy. I knew in my heart that I wanted to open a nonprofit. From a practical standpoint, high end consignment made the most sense to me. I know many closets, like my own, are filled with clothing we don’t want to let go of. Sometimes it’s because we paid a lot. Sometimes it’s because there are special memories attached. It’s not as painful to part with clothing you hold dear when you know it’s going to do more good by being out in the world than it’s doing just hanging in your closet.
Chanel handbags that were donated
What sets Couture for a Cause apart?
One of the things that makes us unique is that we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that can benefit any other nonprofit who seeks ways to raise extra revenue. CFAC is a resale shop, but we try to create the feel of an upscale boutique–minus the stuffy atmosphere!
Kate Spade wedges that were donated. Benefitted Make A Wish.
What do you love most about your job?
It’s hard to decide what I love most about this job! When I spend most of my day in the store with customers, I’m happy. I love helping them choose unique and fabulous outfits that make them feel good. I enjoy the responses I get from people who are learning about the store and are enthusiastic about the cause. It’s also a blast to get involved on projects with various nonprofits. I admire these people who work day in and day out to make a difference in the lives of others and the community.
Donna Karan Collection that was donated
Who will love Couture for a Cause?
Our target market is really quite broad. It can almost only be narrowed down to women! Really, our target customer is anyone who appreciates and recognizes quality brand clothing, but enjoys shopping for bargains. Our target donor is someone who has plenty of quality clothing and wants to make room for more by purging. She’s likely someone with a passion for a nonprofit she is connected to and wishes she could do more for them.
Rebecca Minkoff handbag that was donated. Benefitted Saddle Up.
What fall trends are you most excited about?
We’re entering skirt and pant season! The upcoming trend is to take a step away from strict trends. So, I’m looking forward to helping customers discover the styles that are most flattering to their individual body types.
Whether you want to shop for some unique finds or you’d just like to donate some of your gently used/new high end items, you can find more info on Couture For A Cause via their website. Also, make sure to like their Facebook page to stay up to date with events going on and new items coming in.
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