Designer Fashion on a Budget in Downtown Los Altos

Times may be tough, but that doesn’t mean you should stop shopping, especially when you can find designer fashion for a fraction of the designer price.

 consignment in Los Altos helps women look fabulous while keeping their wallets slim by offering high fashion, second-hand clothing.

The difference between the clothes you will find at Répéter and the clothes you will find at your neighborhood thrift store is all in the eye of the owner. Kellee Breaux, who opened the store in 2005 with her sister, Kara, selects only 10 percent of what comes in to be sold. “I am extremely picky,” she said. “I look for trendy, current-in-style weekend separates in excellent condition.”

The atmosphere is pleasant and the store well organized and thoughtfully decorated, with whimsical touches such as vintage "Hot" and "Cold" faucet knobs used for hooks in the dressing rooms. “I want my customers to feel at home, like they can browse or sit and have a chat if they’d like,” Breaux said.

Chanel, Burberry, Prada, Louis Vuitton are just a few of the high-end designers that can be found in the shop. I found a great pair of green peep-toe Prada heels for $128, a small price to pay considering they normally go for around $600. If that is still out of your price range, the shop also sells mid-range designers from stores such as American Eagle Outfitters, H & M and Arden B . There also are sale boxes with pieces priced at $5 and $10.

One piece I found was from American Eagle Outfitters. The gray, long-sleeved sweater was incredibly soft and lightweight, perfect for a brisk night out in spring or summer paired with my favorite jeans. It was in great condition at a great price, for $16. Speaking of jeans, Répéter also sells several pairs of designer jeans priced from $58-$78, such as 7 For All Mankind, Joe's Jeans and True Religion. The great thing about them is that they’re already broken in.

In addition to apparel and footwear, Répéter sells handbags, jewelry and other accessories, such as scarves, hats and belts. I found a versatile brown leather handbag by Botkier, which would be perfect for spring or summer, as well as a yellow, beaded evening bag with a simple gold chain.

In browsing the store, the one piece I found that stood out the most was a bronze-colored jacket with an iridescent gleam from the collection of 12th Street by Cynthia Vincent that hung loosely at the waist. While the outside was very bold, the inside was a delicate juxtaposition with a milky-white lining highlighting a floral pattern. I had Sheila, who was managing the boutique when I stepped in, and her expertise to thank for helping me find this. This would be a glamorous addition to any wardrobe.

If you are in need of new designer pieces, Répéter will consider buying your formerly adored designer apparel. Starting March 1, spring items will be accepted. Breaux does not accept suits or business wear, and if your piece is accepted, you will receive 40 percent of the selling price.

The shop also will celebrate the end of winter while making room for its new inventory by holding a winter blowout sale beginning Saturday and running through March 5.