A groundbreaking consignment store in Dallas is celebrating 50 years

In 1974, few understood Kennedy and Ungerman’s entrepreneurial vision. Even their husbands were unsure about the viability of their new business idea. However, those fears were allayed when the store made money from the start. Kennedy and Ungerman understood that discretion was of the utmost importance for their business to succeed. Clotheshorse Anonymous offered just that: anonymity. The boutique promised both trust and privacy to Dallas’ social environment. They could go to the back of the store to send pieces from their wardrobe, and even today the store identifies senders by a number, never by their name.

Gen Z shoppers don’t feel the need to be secretive about groceries; they take pride in buying second-hand luxury brands. In a culture that promotes reduction, reuse and recycling, luxury shipments are not only economical, but also good for the earth. “It’s really cool to see young adults come in and express their passion for the planet and upcycling,” says Jennifer Mayrath, director of operations for the boutique.

Clotheshorse Anonymous’ commitment to providing high-quality designer fashion at accessible prices has fostered this vibrant, multi-generational community. The daughters and granddaughters of some of Clotheshorse Anonymous’ first customers (whose names were included in a box of recipe cards) now also shop and ship.

Mayrath keeps a close eye on the ever-changing fashion directions, which keep the boutique’s 40,000 consignment customers coming back for more. With the exception of the timeless classics from Chanel and the Burberry trench coats, everything in the boutique is less than two years old. The stock doesn’t stay on the floor for long, so customers discover new pieces every time they visit the boutique. As for current trends, Mayrath says Gen Z is buying a lot of denim and crossbody bags – and logomania reigns supreme. There is an insatiable demand for designer T-shirts and sneakers from Gucci, Chanel and Chloe. However, despite the demand, prices remain well below retail prices. That is part of the DNA of Clotheshorse Anonymous.

In 2018, Clotheshorse Anonymous began letting customers use their shipment balance on the sales floor — a wise business decision after observing the “one in, one out” shopping philosophy many had adopted post-COVID. This strong momentum in the retail landscape and the creative adaptability are two of the factors that contribute to Clotheshorse Anonymous’ 50-year success record. “I credit the initial success of Clotheshorse Anonymous to Nancy’s business knowledge and creativity,” says Kennedy.

As Clotheshorse Anonymous celebrates 50 years, their eyes remain firmly focused on the future, with business development plans to expand the store’s online presence and offering.

Five decades of keeping Dallas’ most fabulous and fashionable ladies in the latest runway-ready looks – let’s toast to that. Cheers to 50 years!