I was invited to visit Vox Curvy Couture, a downtown thrift shop, for their first Sip ‘n’ Swap event on Saturday. Customers pay $10 beforehand (or $15 at the door) to bring in 10 items or less that they no longer want and then exchange or “swap” them with items others have brought in.
I heard about the event from one of the owners last weekend when my co-columnist, Libby Allnatt, and I took a trip down Roosevelt Street. Unfortunately, Libby could not attend, but I was more than happy to go. My calendar was open, and I was not going to miss the opportunity to experience one of downtown Phoenix’s clothing stores in action.
As a dedicated retail shopper, I have minimal experience with buying used items. However, I have always been envious of my friends who walk into a thrift shop and come out with something designer — or just a really great item — that they purchased for 85 percent less than the original price.
Besides a handful of trips to Goodwill to possibly find a hidden fashion gem, I’ve never been to an independent thrift store. I never took the initiative to go out “thrifting.” But I always wanted to.
I viewed the Sip ‘n’ Swap event as a mini thrift shop and hoped to find something I’d love — designer or not.
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Almost immediately, I could see that Vox achieved a laid-back and charming atmosphere. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves as they perused through the store or eagerly tried on some new finds for their wardrobe.
“Actually several customers requested we do (a Sip ‘n’ Swap),” Vox co-owner Andy McManis said. McManis said the event took about six weeks to plan and she was able to track attendance through their website.
McManis runs the shop alongside her husband, Joe McManis. The two share most of the responsibilities that keep the store up and running.
“We want to see girls enjoying shopping experiences, that’s our goal,” Joe McManis said.
The McManises also ensured everyone’s night was well spent with cocktails (nonalcoholic “mocktails” for those underage) and by periodically adding items to each rack.
Debra Branch, a frequent Vox shopper, said she was dedicated to the store and spends a lot of time shopping there.
“If there’s an event, I’m probably here,” Branch said.
The store set aside a few racks dedicated to “swappable” tops, bottoms and dresses. Because Vox focuses on a body-positive image, there was a size for everyone there. Any items left over were donated to charity.
While I was there, I also got the chance to speak to one of Vox’s models, Antoinette Cauley. She’s featured in several pictures in the store and is a part of Vox’s effort to hire local plus-sized models, just one more thing that makes the store unique.
“I first found this place at First Friday and then they sent out a model call,” Cauley said.
I joined in on the action, too. I compiled a few items I no longer wanted and got a new little black dress, the perfect “lazy day” outfit and a polka-dot button-down for my roommate. I don’t know if anyone took what I brought, but I’m happy knowing it’ll go to a good cause.
Vox Curvy Couture is located on 1022 N. 5th Street, on the corner of Fifth and Roosevelt streets. The store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 12 to 5 p.m. and all other days by appointment. To set up an appointment, text (602) 350-4500.
Contact the columnist at syaghsez@asu.edu
