Fashion Exchange

Trecia and assistant Michelle Brazeal


Second Year Anniversary Party October 22


Trecia Francois' Fashion Exchange in Bowman Curve II celebrates its second year anniversary this month.

The chic, popular shop at 200 North Bowman offers juniors', misses' and women's "gently used" brand name clothing and accessories at great prices. Mrs. Francois also sells new handbags, fashion jewelry and cotillion gloves.

"I am very selective in my inventory," Trecia said. "I try to take the very best of what people bring in to me. I buy outright, so I am picking the best."

Stop by the shop October 22 to enjoy refreshments and door prizes as part of the anniversary celebration.

"Right now, we are focusing on fall and winter clothing. We sell lots of boots. I carry a good selection of bags and designer jeans."

Many of her items come from higher end boutique shops, but she also strives to have clothing to fit any budget.

"The longer I've been here, I've been getting better quality and better brand names. But, I don't just carry high end designer (clothing). I try to make sure I can fit into everybody's budget."

If they are trendy, she will even take items from Target or from department stores. Other brands include Miss Me, Seven for All Mankind, True Religion, Citizens of Humanity, Ann Taylor Loft, Ann Taylor, Chicos, Ralph Lauren, BCBG, American Eagle Outfitters, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Coach.

"Three generations can shop here - teen, mother and grandmother. It has happened before, and they can all find something."

When interviewed in September, Trecia was getting ready for a fashion show at her church. The church gets to sell tickets, and Trecia's six models show off some of the latest finds.

"They will be modeling my clothes. I will be dressing them from head to toe. We fully accessorize their outfits. It's a fun thing."

Trecia is willing to do this at no cost for other church groups or for women's organizations.

Another fun idea is a private shopping party after hours at the shop. "We will be open for two hours for groups of at least 12 people. We have refreshments and give them a special discount for that night only."


Fashion Exchange has enjoyed a quite successful two years. Trecia has been utilizing Facebook to preview new items, and she offers exclusive discounts there that are not available in the shop. In addition, she offers a $50 gift certificate to customers for detailing their "favorite Fashion Exchange find."

Trecia likes to help her customers find what they need, and like the Macy's Santa in Miracle on 34th Street, she sends shoppers to her competition if she thinks other re-sale shops can help them.

The shop will begin taking heavy winter items in October. Call Trecia at 227-7776 for an appointment. Fashion Exchange is open late on Thursday nights to make shopping easier for working women. Hours for the shop are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday.