Celebrating 50 Years of Style With Dallas’ Original Consignment Shop: Clotheshorse Anonymous

Long before consigning was cool, two Dallas stay-at-home moms had an idea. If you got tired of a dress, a bag, or jacket, why not swap them with friends? Little did Clotheshorse Anonymous founders Jan Kennedy and Nancy Ungerman know they were 50 years ahead of their time.

Fast forward five decades. This past spring, the Preston Forest emporium celebrated its golden anniversary. And while fashion has changed, the store’s value-oriented premise continues to flourish.

We asked Director of Operations Jennifer Mayrath to take us on a trip down memory lane.

In the beginning, it was just Disney Street mothers trading clothes. But all that changed when Ungerman scored a Fendi bag at a New York City consignment store. “It was the aha moment. She realized it could actually be a business.”

The word spread. But the pair quickly learned discretion was paramount. (Thus the name, Clotheshorse Anonymous.) “No one wanted to admit they were selling, let alone buying, used clothes. There are crazy stories of Jan and Nancy picking up stuff in the Park Cities because it was so secretive,” said Mayrath.

It’s a far cry from today’s Gen Z shoppers who take pride in buying secondhand. In a culture that champions reducing, reusing, and recycling, luxury consignment is not only economical, but good for the earth. Not to mention, the industry is booming.

According to GlobalData, total sales of resale goods are expected to top $73 billion by 2028.

Over the years, CHA has grown into an internationally recognized destination for both shoppers and consignors. “We have clients who come in every single day, seven days a week, to see what’s new,” said Mayrath.

What they’ll find is an ever-changing mix of luxury and contemporary apparel and accessories.

Best-selling labels include Ulla Johnson, Veronica Beard, Zimmermann, and Tory Birch. Designer shoes and handbags — Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Christian Louboutin — fly off the shelves.

So, who’s buying? “A lot of Realtors shop here. So do lawyers. You can find great pieces priced 50 percent or more off retail. The good ones go as soon as they hit the floor.”

We asked Mayrath to help us pick out some stylish Realtor looks.

“This cropped tweed jacket is a work wardrobe must-have. I’d pair it with a wide-leg jean, crisp shirting, ladylike sandals, and a colorful tote.”

Dresses are another summer staple. “They’re easy and effortless.” Up the chic factor with fashionable flats, a standout bag, and eye-catching jewelry.  

Downsizing or moving? CHA pros will come to your house to do a closet revamp.

“Consigning makes sense,” said Mayrath. “There’s less to move, you’re acting responsibly, plus you can make some cash.”