June 27, 2009
New Shop on the Block: Second Time Around opening hosted by Bravo’s Real Housewife Alex McCord

hotography by Will Raggazino/Patrick McMullan.com & Jerritt Clark/Wire Image The Grand Opening of New York’s first Second Time Around store was kicked off in style thanks to host, Alex McCord of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City along with co-hosts Tracy Stern of Tracy Stern Salon Tea and Celebrity Blogger Tia Walker. Second Time Around is a chain of contemporary, designer, consignment clothing & furniture stores. The boutique is appropriately located at 262 Mott Street, in the heart of Nolita and in the middle of some Manhattan’s most unique boutiques. Derek Warburton, Alex McCord, and guests This is a fabulously updated consignment shop. Some of the customer benefits include include a Frequent Buyer Card, a wish-list membership to assist customers in finding their perfect purchase, automatic check payments for consignors, and rewards to current consignors who refer new consignors. Consignors may log on to their secure online account at any time 24/7 to monitor their items, and can elect to receive text messages when items are sold. Proceeds from consigned items may also be donated to a charity should the consignor desire. While other companies strive to go green, Second Time Around has long been a leader in eco-savvy, sustainable fashion. “Second Time Around is beyond excited to expand to New York. As a leader in consignment shopping and the eco-luxury movement, we think Second Time Around will add a unique experience for customers,” said President, Jeffrey Casler. “We look forward to seeing the store take shape in this new location and are excited to be part of this great retail neighborhood.” The idea of recycling clothing particularly appealed to the newest member of the team, Alex McCord of Bravo’s Real Housewives of New York and Director of Creative Operations for STA. “This is the right idea at the right time,” said McCord. “Given the turns the economy has taken recently, the expansion of designer resale is good for both the economic and environmental climate.” The items at the store ranged from your ultimate splurge (Cashmere Chanel Coat) to your little indulgences (semi-precious stoned jewelry only you will don). Alex McCord hosted the event with elegance and style in a pink Carlos Miele dress which she acquired from the store. Co-host Tia Walker was dressed in Leigh Bantivoglio, also a product of the store. Second Time Around was full of Manhattan’s most beautiful people as they sipped refreshing VOGA Champagne, replenished their thirst with Jana Water, and ate delicious cupcakes from the Cupcake Stop—I had the red velvet, super yummy! Guests of the event included Bravo’s Real Housewives of New York City, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, Jill Zarin’s daughter Ally Zarin, Designer John Bartlett, Bravo’s Project Runway Kevin Christiano, America’s Next Top Model Kimberly Leemans, Actress Annabel Vartanjan, Art Consultant David Chines, Jeweler John Magzalciogu, founder of the on-line invite only party site YouAreOntheList, Robin Ross, and Celebrity Stylist Derek Warburton. I wish Second Time Around nothing but success. It’s truly an awesome addition to NYC’s list of hidden treasures.