A guide to men's resale shops

Not many men swing open their closet doors and moan, "I have nothing to wear!" But for those who do, heading to a resale shop instead of the mall can be a smart way to build a wardrobe without breaking the budget.

Men's resale shops aren't as common as those that cater to women, but Houston does have a few worth hitting. The upscale Men's Resale by the Village feels like any regular specialty store. Suits, slacks, jeans, button-down shirts, tuxedos, shoes and accessories fill the well-organized racks and shelves. Like other resale-store owners, Lily Lee accepts only high-quality items, which have been dry-cleaned, and she has a sharp eye for designer labels.

Shops like Men's Resale by the Village offer brand-name labels without the high prices.

"We take things that are in excellent condition," Lee said. "We also have people who bring in items that have never been worn, so there is a lot to choose from."

On a recent day, Lee received a slew of chinos from a local designer who wasn't able to sell them through local department stores. Lee priced the pants at $50, but they could have easily retailed for $200.

Suits in a range of sizes are another find. Armani, Zegna, Neiman Marcus and Calvin Klein are among the labels, and Lee said that the owners of M. Penner, a fine men's clothing store, are among the consigners at her store.

Most suits range from $59 to $99. Casual pants are $8 to $18, dress slacks run from $10 to $25. Watches are $45 to $68 and cuff links range from $19 to $35.

Lee splits the profits with the consigner 60/40, and pays monthly. The clothing needs to be clean, on hangers and from better department stores such as Foley's and Dillard's or other recognized labels. She won't accept items from discount or midpriced stores such as Sears or JC Penney.

Another men's resale option is the Red Door, also in the Rice Village. Women will find more than men, but tucked into the back of the store is a selection of men's suits and tuxedos. Brand-new dress shirts hang from the racks at a fraction of the cost finer department stores charge.

For contemporary clothing choices, Fashion Recycler on Westheimer is a hip resale shop that sells denim, pants and shirts. Much of the store's inventory is seasonal overstock from manufacturers that has never been worn.

Details: Men's Resale by the Village, 2437 Bissonnet. 713-522-5645.

Details: Red Door, 2532 Nottingham. 713-522-4343.

Details: Fashion Recycler, 1529 Westheimer. 713-529-7463.