Children's resale shop offers new life to old clothes

Prior to opening her children's clothing resale shop on the Square, Amanda Hanes was an avid consigner and bargain hunter.

"I feel like I am a professional shopper," Hanes said. "I know what's being sought after. I try to bring in brands moms want to buy."

Hanes opened Little Loft in July 2012 in the loft area of The Exchange. Prior to opening her business, she spent 14 years at Dell Inc. working in sales and marketing. She said she has been able to leverage that experience in owning her own business.

"I enjoyed my career, but it wasn't fulfilling," she said. "I work harder and longer hours, but I love every single hour, and I get to use my creativity."

The store offers gently used clothing items for newborns to junior sizes, as well as new accessories and gently used children's and young adult books.

"[There are some brands that can be] so expensive," Hanes said. "We have them, and they look new, but it's one-third the price. I try to bring in 'high-end hand-me-downs.' I inspect everything because I want it to be great quality, great brands and great prices."

Hanes said her business has evolved based on customers needs and what they want to see on the racks.

She also works with local artisans to stock her shelves. She features bows, headbands and knit scarves that are made locally as well as two new clothing lines.

"I try to buy local as well," Hanes said. "They support me, so I want to support them and practice what I preach. I try to keep it here if I can. If I can get it in Georgetown, I'm not buying it anywhere else."

The store also features a children's play area with toys to occupy children while their parents shop, she said.

"This is a kids' store and should be kid-friendly," Hanes said. "Kids should come here and like it just like moms."

Hanes said that she appreciates the community's support of her business and likes to give back to nonprofits and organizations when she's able, and she is enjoying watching her business evolve from an idea into reality.

"This is my retirement," Hanes said. "But it's the happiest retirement I could imagine."

Little Loft, Inside The Exchange at 109 W. Seventh St., Ste. 115, 512-943-4591. www.littleloftgtown.com, Hours: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.