A Shopper's Review of Secondi in Dupont Circle

European eclecticism and traditional Washingtonian elegance perform an interesting courting dance at Dupont Circle's Secondi. Located just above the Connecticut Avenue Starbucks, the high-end consignment shop offers a wide spectrum of chic styles and coveted brands for surprising prices. If you're frustrated with fancy department store and designer boutique prices, try Secondi for a fresh burst of graceful affordability.

Anthropologie, Badley Mischka, Banana Republic, BCBG, Free People, Hollywould, Marc Jacobs, Nanette Lepore, Prada, Vera Wang-these are just a few of the eye-catching names you can expect to find at Secondi, for fractions of their original price. With names such as those, you can imagine the scope of their collection. Whether you're looking for boho luxe or society girl, Secondi has the pieces to suit your needs. In fact, you could score a Christian Dior formal gown, True Religion jeans, or a J. Crew sweater all in one visit (not that you won't want to return for future sessions of retail therapy.)

While Secondi stocks both younger and more mature pieces, you're not in danger of stumbling across anything remotely matronly. "Frumpy" does not exist in this store. The bright Jones New York dresses, Betsey Johnson frocks, and Chanel pumps lining the walls will attest to that.

Oh, and the shoes! Secondi's are exquisite. I nearly fainted at the sight of lace-covered Bebe ankle boots marked at half of their original price (sadly only available in a size too small.) A pair of royal blue velvet Marc Jacobs flats decorated with a skinny, turquoise bow also grabbed me. And if you're a Jimmy Choo or Balenciaga affionada, you will definitely want to sift through what they have.

Besides the fact that everything at Secondi is so delicious, I also liked how organized and accessible everything is. Every price tag bears future mark-downs so you know how much something will cost if remains unsold by certain dates. Furthermore, all the clothes are arranged according to color and size, which makes shopping for a particular item much easier.

Secondi not only creates a comfortable and unique atmosphere for its shoppers but it also offers favorable options for those interested in consigning clothes. Your approved items go out on the sales floor the same day you bring them in and you even receive 50% of the selling price. Just keep in mind that in order to maintain their exquisite selection, Secondi only accepts stylish clothes in excellent condition.

All in all, you would never suspect that Secondi is a secondhand store, especially since many of the items there are completely new and completely beautiful. The store also lacks that "basement thrift shop feel" and is well-lit and airy.

The shopping experience at Secondi is simply top-notch.

To learn more about Secondi, including their consignment guidelines, visit their website at www.secondi.com

1702 Connecticut Ave. NW (second floor)

2 blocks north of the Dupont Circle Metro

Phone: (202) 667-1122

Monday & Tuesday 11 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 11 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday 11 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.