Instead of being embarrassed, I’m now embracing the fact that I’ve become sort of an office joke here at the St. Louis Jewish Light. You see, despite my best efforts, I cannot properly say the word “couturier.” As you can see, I can spell it just fine, but even though I studied French, I cannot say this word.
But my issues should in no way stop you from receiving all the information possible regarding the National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis’ The Resale Shop’s 59th Annual Couturier, but first a little history.
The inaugural Couturier Sale
In 1964, the first Couturier Sale was held in the living room of a member’s new home and later at a vacant filling station, as well as many other locations over the years.
Couturier was the idea of member Bede Wolff, who lent a dress to a friend and realized that many women would probably enjoy the chance to buy nice items from one another to help NCJWSTL’s programs.
The first sale brought in 16 people and raised $125, but it took on a life of its own after that. Nearly 60 years later, the Couturier Sale has raised millions of dollars.
The 59th Annual Couturier
This year marks the 82nd anniversary of The Resale Shop and the 59th annual Couturier. Well known by local fashionistas for a selection of top-quality, discounted designer merchandise, this year’s Couturier event will be stocked with clothing and accessories from top fashion brands as well as unique home décor.
The Resale Shop, a charitable project of the National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis (NCJWSTL), raises funds to support women, children and families in our community. One of those projects is the annual Back to School! Store. This year, 2,000 elementary children received backpacks, school supplies, winter coats and other essentials necessary to start school with excitement and learn with confidence.
This year’s Couturier, set for Oct. 18-21, comes on the heels of Secondhand September, a month highlighting the sustainability of shopping at thrift stores.
“We are thrilled to offer designer clothing and accessories for a fraction of the cost,” said Jessica Duneman, director of retail operations at The Resale Shop. “This year’s event includes brands such as Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Alice & Olivia, Johnny Was, Rag & Bone, Ted Baker, Free People, Michael Kors, Lululemon, Eileen Fisher, St. John and more.”
What you need to know
Couturier begins on Wednesday, Oct. 18 with a VIP preview event, where purchasing a special VIP ticket allows shoppers to be the first to shop for all the unique designer items.
The event continues with no entry fee on Thursday, Oct. 19 and Friday, Oct. 20, followed by a storewide sale on Saturday, Oct. 21.
The 59th Annual Couturier is held in partnership with Hindman Auctions & Appraisals and the St. Louis Jewish Light.
Schedule of events:
Oct. 18 | 1 to 4 p.m. | $75 VIP Preview
Oct. 18 | 4 to 8 p.m. | $10 Preview Night
Oct. 19 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |Open to the public
Oct. 20 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Open to the public
Oct. 21 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | 25% off storewide
Photos: Through the years
Fifty-nine years means a lot of fashion trends, and a lot of pictures taken during those years, so enjoy this photographic trip back in time.
