The Red and Black

Issue date: 5/1/07 Section: Variety

Five years ago, a small, gently used clothing store opened its doors to the Athens public.

Uncertain of the business's future success, its owner, Jennifer Hayes, hoped the store would be more popular than her first unprofitable enterprise, a branch of Plato's Closet she previously had tried to franchise.

Now, Cillies clothing store is the most inexpensive, yet trendy shopping solution for the college student, as well as the only used and new clothing store near campus.

Located in the heart of downtown, the store features a variety brands and styles.

"GAP, Hollister and Charlotte Russe are just a few of the thousands of brands we offer," said Hayes.

The clothing styles are geared toward young adults, mainly high school and college students, who like to stay in style but do not always have
the funds to do so.

The designer brands are discounted heavily to appeal to a wide range of student budgets.

"All used clothing is at least 50 to 70 percent off its retail price," said Jennifer Hayes.

The used clothing costs around or under $10, and new merchandise usually ranges between $15 and $30.

Cillies is also a great outlet for menswear.

"My girlfriend got me a sweater from there once and it's so warm it reminds me of how much I love her every time I wear it," said Wil Baber, a senior from Augusta.

Aside from its clothing selection, the store features a wide variety of shoes, jewelry and
accessories.

"Cillies has done a wonder for my closet," said Kat Nelson, a senior from Savannah, who frequently shops at Cillies. "I found a gold purse for only five dollars there once that adds to all my outfits."

But spending money on clothes and accessories is not the only thing to do at Cillies. Some students opt to make money, instead.

The clothing store accepts used clothing from the general public every day from 10 a. m. to 5 p. m. and pays for it in cash. Because students
frequently trade clothes for money at Cillies, the store has a constant flow of new styles coming in.

"I go in almost every day and there is always something new on the racks," Nelson said.

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