Upscale consignment shop Flip Your Closet OBX has recently expanded its audience. Opened on Nov. 28, 2014, the store was originally geared toward women, but is now offering clothes for high school girls.

With prom just around the corner, owner Stacey Koplen has also implemented a program that will allow girls to purchase quality, gently-used prom dresses at reduced prices. Koplen believes that she can use her consignment shop as a way for girls to sell or donate their old dresses. Koplen understands that not all families can afford to purchase a brand new prom dress each year and wants all girls to be able to have the experience.

“I think the average girl can spend about $1,000 by the time they get all of the accessories they need,” Koplen said. “I know that’s not possible for all families.”

Koplen started this program after hearing about larger cities doing charities and dress drives as a way to help out high school students.

“I think every girl should get the opportunity to go to prom,” Koplen said. “I wanted to try and make that possible.”

One challenge that Koplen has faced with this project is the stigma placed on consignment and thrift shops. Koplen often refers to her shop as “an upscale boutique” as opposed to a consignment shop.

“We are very similar to Plato’s Closet,” Koplen said. “While I don’t take some of the brands that Plato’s Closet takes, it is the same concept.”

FFHS Prom Coordinator Lauren Deal believes that this project is a great idea that can have a big impact on high school students.

“Prom dresses can be so expensive,” Deal said. “Anything that can make it (prom) more affordable and gives everyone a chance to go, I think is awesome.”

For additional information you can contact Stacey Koplen at 252-305-2340 cell or 252-255-5562 business.

Send comments to [email protected]