Michael's - The Consignment Shop for Women

646-755-9397

1041 Madison Ave New York, NY 10021

www.michaelsconsignment.com

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Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat 9:30am-6pm Thu 9:30am-8pm

Message from Michael's - The Consignment Shop for Women

Michael's, The Consignment Shop for Women is New York's premier consignment store. Located on fashionable Madison Avenue, Michael's proudly lists many of New York's rich and famous as clients. Michael's specializes in the resale of the most pristine, gently used, designer clothing and accessories for the discriminating woman. Designers like Chanel, Hermes, Luis Vuitton and Gucci can be found 'hanging out' at Michael's right now. Michael's boasts decades of fashion savvy experience and serves as a model for consignment stores all over the world. At Michael's, you can look like a million without spending a million.

Editorial by Citysearch

The Scene
Upper East Side ladies and downtown divas alike sell their threads here, and the world comes to claim them. For more than 45 years, this upscale consignment shop has been an institution for fashionistas without trust funds and grandmothers with great taste. Peer over the hangers and catch a glimpse of Gotham's fashion mosaic: Hasidic brides shop for Vera Wang wedding gowns while yuppie career girls cruise the cramped aisles for pants to wear at their next power lunch.

The Goods
Hand-picked designer clothing and accessories, all once-loved and gently worn. While Michael's is best known for its bridal consignment (which closes at 5pm), the store is packed with everything from Chanel suits to Gucci Gowns, Hermes scarves and Prada shoes. You won't find a generic brand because every garment must have an authentic, prestigious label in order to hang on the racks.

Key Points

  • Couture Fashion & Accessories
  • Personalized Service
  • Handpicked Treasures

The Inside Scoop

  1. Know Before You Go - Michael's always looks for stuff to sell, but don't try to unload your prom dress unless you're still in high-school. Only items less than two years-old are allowed.

Editorial and merchant content by Citysearch

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Insider Pages Reviews for Michael's - The Consignment Shop for Women

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LOOKS BEAUTIFUL BUT BUYER BEWARE

by ALLISON C.

I searched online for designer handbags and I was all excited about this place during my trip to NY. I must have over 30 designer bags myself, but a girl can never have too many. As I was there I felt like a little girl at a toy store with all the beautiful selection with designer bags. Most looked in pretty good condition, but a black YSL one caught my eye especially. As I was looking closer and in the inside, the workmanship didn't look right. I told the lady about it and she guaranteed that it is 100% authentic. I own several YSL bags myself and it didn't look right. As I was looking further a Marc Jacobs didn't look kosher too. The hardware and the weight of the bag didn't seem right from what I remember my 2 MJ ones at home look like. I was turned off by these and wonder how many others could be copies there. The sales woman looked annoyed and nasty as I was checking the bags too. If I spend that much (as the prices were not cheap) for used handbags, I should be able to check them out thoroughly. I would be embarrassed to walk around with a copy when I own so many reals. When I got home to Maryland, I reviewed my YSL & MJ bags and they looked like much better quality than those I saw there. I'm sure most are authentic at Michael's as the Chanels looked real, but just BUYER BEWARE before you spend TOP DOLLAR on used merchandise!!

Posted 05/16/09 | Report Abuse

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Great Consignment!!!!

by Anonymous

Michael's is the Rolls Royce of consignment. Rack after rack of high-end couture stand beside row after row of high-end shoes and accessories. I saw all the big hitters from Chanel to Hermes to Marc Jacobs to Valentino to Tory to Chloe to so many more. And the staff is not at all pushy, just pleasant and helpful. They even have comfy chairs in the front for the hubby's to take a snooze while you shop. Everything is well organized and in perfect condition. They only carry things that are current, no vintage finds here (except for some Pucci, Hermes and Chanel pieces). Probably the best consignment store I have ever been to.

Posted 02/29/08 | Report Abuse

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Brides, do not use them if you do not absolutely have to

by Tunisia R.

I am a first-time bride with no girlie skills. I want a hassle free wedding just like the next bride. I was told that Michael's is a great little shop to get what you need. However, you will not get this at Michael's. I called them to make an appointment - which they said I did not have to do. I asked what time I could be there and the young woman said the latest was 4:30 to try on dresses. When I got there (4:30 pm), they informed me that they would be closing early (5 pm), however, I could go up to the bridal salon. When I got upstairs, the attendant ignored me until I pulled out two dresses. She then says I can not try them on, they are closing and I have to put them back! First, the selection was very small. Second most were dirty. You can find designer dresses, but the quality of the dresses is horrific. The shop is small, stale, and dirty. I decided to speak with the manager and let her know that they should be more considerate to their customers - especially new brides that HATE doing wedding stuff. My bridesmaids got there at 4:45, I was waiting outside already wishing to elope in Vegas. Do not go there. It is a true waste of time.

Posted 08/10/07 | Report Abuse

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Latest reviews from Citysearch.

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Great Clothes in Season

by travelingal272

It was my first trip to Micheal's and it was great. My daughter and I found some amazing clothes for the spring at great prices. The best part about Micheal's was the fact that it is decorated so nicely. I felt like I was in a charming boutique. What often comes along with a boutique was the rude staff. I could tell that they know who is going to buy no matter what and who isn't and they treat you accordingly. I will still shop here in years to come.

Pros: Fanciest Boutique in Town

Cons: Rude Staff

Posted 03/28/09

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peaceful and beautiful shopping

by JazzyJules

It was my first visit to Micheal's and I will go back. The store is extremely well done and does not make you feel like you are buying second hand. The store was quiet and had a great selection of Chanel pieces as well as handbags. I bought a beautiful black YSL bag for $200. The only downside is that the staff is not very helpful and border on rudeness. It is a good thing that it doesn't deter my drive for bargain designer duds.

Pros: great clothes

Cons: rude staff

Posted 03/09/09

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A Must when you go to NYC - skip all your other shopping

by mcb0575

I found Michael's based on a web search for Designer Handbags in NYC for an upcoming trip. I walked 20 blocks to get to Michaels in between work appointments and was definetely worth the trip!!!!! I have been looking on Rulala, Hautelook, and ebay for a good deal on a Marc Jacobs bag. I was prepared to buy a bag here. Well to my surpirse that were at least 4 bags that made my cut and I walked out of there with a beatitful Red sholder bag that was from Spring of 08. It was in great condition. The store was clean, well organized, and the sales people very helpful. I can see why this has been rated so high. I was very impressed. I did not buy anything else because of time, but they had great shoes, coats, Channel Suits, and so much in a small space. This is top-notch. I get to Consigments Store in my native Chicago and everything here is like a rumage sale for "Old Ladies." This is awesome and cannot wait to go back. There was another shop a few doors down and that smelled, the merchandise was not as good as Michaels. Don't waste your time and money paying full retail. Be prepared to buy, not for the borwser or it won't be there when you go back. If you love bags and got ripped on ebay and other sites this will be the place for you. I should have purchased 2 bags!!!!!

Pros: Well Organized and updated brands and styles

Posted 09/01/08

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Amazing Finds!

by nycmeimei

I am not what you would consider consignment savvy. I have wanted to however add to my designer collection of clothes without paying full price. I recently stumbled upon Michael's the other day and I'm still glowing from my amazing Missoni, Gucci, Louboutin and Chanel finds. Most of my purchases still had the original tags. I'm now telling all my friends. It's simply a must before making the trek to crowded department stores or putting up with snooty sales associates at the designer boutiques. I really think that the sales girl who assisted me made all the difference as a consignment newbie. She didn't rush me, established immediate credibility and had excellent suggestions. She wasn't pushy about it either - just showed me how to shop consignment. I look forward to going back!

Pros: Wonderful selection, great sales people

Cons: none

Posted 03/17/08

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I have found the premier Consignment store in the US

by courtyardcat

My husband and I travel all the time and I love the hunt for a great bargain. I buy very expensive clothes and accessories but I would rather find a great deal in a consignment store. When we decided to go to Manhatten for Christmas I did a lot of research on line and saw great comments about Michaels. It was my first and only stop. The second I walked into this store I saw a gorgeous velvet black Chanel bag. Too die for. I did't have her hold it for me as I looked around and someone else purchased it, my fault. However I did find a Judith Leiber purse made of ostrich skin for 500.00 dollars, a steal. Also found some great Prada shoes. The shop is small with two floors, but arranged very thoughtfully and there are tons to choose from. The ladies in the shop were extremely kind and friendly, even though it was Christmas Eve and very busy. This is the best consignment store I have ever been in from San Francisco to Orlando. I will be back.

Posted 12/27/07

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Must not be missed!

by shopnycgirl

This place has become my one-stop-shopping. I have found everything I need here; shoes, handbags, fine jewelry, suits, dresses, etc. And they only carry the best; only high-end designers like Prada, Chloe, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors (my favorites)? they even have loads of Chanel and Hermes. I?ve been to many consignment stores and none compare to Michael?s. They just simply have the best stuff. I consign here too which has been well worth my while. Although I must stress, they really only take the best so don?t get offended when they turn down your favorite black cashmere sweater that has seen better days. Why, after coming here for so long, have I decided to write a review? Well, I recently got my wedding dress here (Rivini?they only carry high-end gowns as well) and felt the need to share with everyone that this place must not be missed.

Pros: They have THE best high-end designer merchandise

Cons: Very selective on what they take on consignment

Posted 11/27/07

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Great Customer Service, Fantastic Finds

by ues2007

Michael's Consignment shop was a dream come true - from the thoughtful and helpful service to the array and quality of the merchandise, I can't recommend this place enough. As someone who was not thrilled at the prospect of trying on wedding gowns, and had heard the NYC bridal salon horror stories from friends, I can confidently say that everyone at Michael's made the experience a positive one, even fun!

Their helpful team showed me the (deeply discounted - but flawless) couture dresses, (Carolina Herrera, Badgley Mischka, Vera Wang and more) and also helped with getting different ideas for shoes, wraps, purse etc. (they have it all!). Extremely polite and attentive, the team took great care of me - I am so glad I went here first and found the wedding dress of my dreams.

I will definitely return to the shop, now that I know they carry the best designers for work and evening attire (Chanel, Diane Von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs, Prada and more). If you are someone who likes the good stuff and pride yourself on your shopping skills ? Michaels Consignment shop is the place for you!

Pros: Helpful service, great bridal gown selection, discounted designer finds

Posted 10/01/07

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Best Shop for Designer Bags

by squirrelzach

This is the place to come for a great selection of designer bags from lower priced like Coach all the way to Hermes. They also have a nice shoe selection, not large but Manolos and Choos in new condition. The people who work there were nice and helpfull too. The only thing bad I have to say is that some things are not prices half off or more like they say. I looked at a Chanel wallet that I know is $575 retail and it was priced at $395, a $180 savings but not close to half off. Also some of the bags are more worn then others. Overall it is worth the trip to check it out everyonce and a while.

Posted 09/24/07

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Avoid this place if you can!!!

by tunisia_csw

I am a first-time bride with no girlie skills. I want a hassle free wedding just like the next bride. I was told that Michael's is a great little shop to get what you need. However, you will not get this at Michael's. I called them to make an appointment - which they said I did not have to do. I asked what time I could be there and the young woman said the latest was 4:30 to try on dresses. When I got there (4:30 pm), they informed me that they would be closing early (5 pm), however, I could go up to the bridal salon. When I got upstairs, the attendant ignored me until I pulled out two dresses. She then says I can not try them on, they are closing and I have to put them back! First, the selection was very small. Second most were dirty. You can find designer dresses, but the quality of the dresses is horrific. The shop is small, stale, and dirty. I decided to speak with the manager and let her know that they should be more considerate to their customers - especially new brides that HATE doing wedding stuff. My bridesmaids got there at 4:45, I was waiting outside already wishing to elope in Vegas. Do not go there. It is a true waste of time.

Pros: You can get designer clothes at low prices

Cons: Poor service, atmosphere, de-value the customer

Posted 08/09/07

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Best place for a wedding dress!

by cmaccull

My friend recommended this place as a resource for wedding dresses. They have a small bridal salon upstairs, stocked with beautiful designer dresses for a fraction of the original costs. The women are helpful, but never pushy and I found my dress almost right away. Best of all, it was only 500 dollars! Brides on a budget or just savvy brides in general should definitely check out Michael's. One tip though--if going to the bridal salon, it's open from 10-5 and if possible, try to avoid it on week-ends.

Pros: Selection, prices, and helpful, laid-back staff

Cons: Crowded on week-ends

Posted 02/16/07

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Fabulous finds!

by bellabambina

I always manage to find something fabulous at the fraction of the price anywhere else. They carry the finest quality brands (Chanel, Hermes, Prada, Gucci, Dior, etc.) and have the latest styles. I highly recommend checking this store out. You will love it!

Posted 03/30/06

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my favorite store

by kimberlymims

this is my favorite store, it has the best merchandise!

Posted 08/21/02

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A Great Resource

by ginny

Michaels is a great place to find the designer clothing you crave. I found an awesome Prada suit and a fab pair of Gucci shoes for less than I would pay for the shoes alone. This is not your usual, crowded consignment store-everything is well organized and easy to find. Thank you Michael's!

Posted 08/20/02

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The best for less!

by zfluhr

This is the best consignment shop I have ever been in. There is always something new and exciting that I just "can't live without". Don't miss this shop when visiting New york.

Pros: Great Selection, Excellent Service, Terrific Prices

Posted 07/06/02

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