m.a.e. Luxury Consignment and Vintage

The problem with writing a piece about m.a.e, is that part of me wants to keep this great little shop in Park Slope, Brooklyn a secret. The shop opened in April 2009, with a mission to recycle amazing pieces that are better made than much of what is available at most stores, for "people who appreciate quality and style". The owner, Marci Dixon, has a background in fashion, and previously worked for Manolo Blahnik. During our chat, Marci had one eye on her customers, steering them in the right direction, answering their questions, and giving them honest assessments on fit.

yours truly, modeling the Chanel jumpsuit

m.a.e is technically a consignment shop, but the selection is so extremely well curated that it feels more like a boutique. The ever-changing clothing selection is all in perfect or very good condition, and some of it still has the original tags. On recent visits, the labels included Chanel, Prada, Cynthia Rowley, Betsey Johnson, Burberry, Diane Von Furstenberg...you get the idea. Some items are vintage, and others are vintage inspired, but all are trend-right. Prices are very reasonable, considering the brands available; the most expensive item was a Prada leather coat for $895, and the least expensive were belts for $10. We also spotted a Chanel skirt for $200, and many of the dresses are as little as $60. Just for fun, Marci pulls out a sequined and chiffon Chanel jumpsuit, and encourages me to try it on. At $795, this piece is a relative bargain, as it would have been over $10,000 new. 

Marci says certain items are blowing out of the store, specifically, boots and ponchos. The thing the store is really famous for, however, is the shoe selection. One wall of the store is dedicated to shoes, in all sizes. Thanks to Marci's connections, she has an unbelievable number of Manolo Blahniks...as an example, she pulls out a never-worn pair of light green strappy sandals and explains this particular pair would retail for over $2000, but she is only asking $400. We also spotted Via Spiga (on the way out the door, these were snatched up the day they came in) as well as Repetto flats.

Marci follows runway and street fashion as sources of inspiration, but also tries to adjust to the needs and tastes of her customers. Rather than trends, she likes to offer classic, quality pieces because "a Chanel from any decade is timeless".

m.a.e. is located at 453 7th Avenue (between 15th- 16th Streets) in Brooklyn, NY.

Check out the website for store hours or to shop online !