Clothes Mentor Brings New Sustainable Shopping Option to Gahanna
There’s a new place in Gahanna to shop for your wardrobe! Clothes Mentor recently opened for business at 1331 Stoneridge Drive.
“Clothes Mentor moved into a 6,000 square foot space in Gahanna based on successful indicators from our affiliate business, Once Upon a Child, also located at Stoneridge Plaza. We just love Gahanna, and this community really supports our business model rooted in sustainability,” shared Susan Riley, Vice President of Clothes Mentor (OUAC, Inc.).
The official January 8 ribbon cutting featured speeches from Gahanna Mayor Laurie Jadwin, State Representative Mary Lightbody, and Brad Fisher, President of the Gahanna Area Chamber of Commerce.
“We actually opened here on November 18, 2021, and we’re bringing 18 more jobs to the local Gahanna economy. We immediately connected with Gahanna Public Schools to discover new employees. Thrifting is so popular today with young people, and we’ve already filled 12 positions. Clothes Mentor employees work reasonable hours and receive a 25 percent credit, too,” shared Gahanna Store Manager Jessica Conkle, a graduate from Gahanna Lincoln High School.
At Clothes Mentor, thrifting is made simple. Employees are trained as professional buyers to ensure that reused products for sale are both high in quality and style, accepting items typically from the past two years. Those who bring in items for resale are compensated in one of two ways – cash on the spot or a 25 percent store credit. Clothes Mentor’s free personal shopper service can be scheduled online or in-person, assisting shoppers to discover great outfits. Because the store carries sizes 0 to 26 along with maternity options, its team can assemble outfits for a diverse array of preferences.
“Clothes Mentor first started in 1985, and this business model rooted in environmental sustainability has only become more and more successful over the decades. The younger generation is really placing an emphasis on becoming more sustainable, and young people are smart with their money, too. This seriousness is actively on display when you look at the TikTok videos of young thrifters. The thrifting movement is strong and spreading,” explained Conkle.
The social aspect of Clothes Mentor is also evident through its ongoing, experiential programming. For example, the Gahanna team is excited to host theme parties in the vein of a ‘70s night or ‘80s night. Regular fashion shows will be held to further celebrate the power of thrifting.
To visit Clothes Mentor, stop in the store at 1331 Stoneridge Drive at the Stoneridge Plaza or visit clothesmentor.com.
