Smallclothes makes a big splash in West Seattle

Tucked into a wee bungalow off California Avenue Southwest in West Seattle is Smallclothes, just about the cutest darn kids' consignment store I've come across. Owned by mother and daughter Ruth and Stephanie Hargrave, Smallclothes carries a combination of gently used clothes and shoes, as well as several thoughtfully chosen lines of new items for ages newborn to 8 years.

Inside, three rooms are filled with fantastic finds, and there's a play area for the little ones. Outside, a fenced backyard beckons kids to come out and play on warm days. The Hargraves are enthusiastic in their support of local designers, and they stock Smallclothes with sturdy, stylish, Seattle-made See Kai Run shoes, sandals and boots ($34-$42) for toddlers.

The Hargraves are excitedly awaiting the next generation from See Kai Run, which is partnering with Portland's Picaflor Kids to bring See Kai Run style to bigger feet. The Eleven collection picks up where See Kai Runs leaves off, at size 9 (3 years old) through size 1 (age 7). Look for the Eleven collection at Smallclothes soon.

Aside from giving new life to gently used clothes, another passion of the Hargraves is selling organic cotton kids' apparel. San Francisco's hip Speesees line is a highlight, with dandelion kimono-style onesies for $24, as are tops and pillows ($28) from Little Marmara. Available in soothing green and eggplant purple, these tops and pillows are made from the softest organic cotton available.

Alongside the clothes are used books, baby and kid accessories, and new books and calendars from local artist Nikki McClure. On a recent visit, I spotted McClure's adorable baby book, The First 1000 Days ($12.95), as well as her popular counting book, Awake to Nap ($9.95).

The Hargraves buy freshly laundered gently used clothes (no more than 25 pieces at a time) all months but January, June, July and December. They pay 30 percent of the value of the clothes in cash or offer 35 percent in store credit.

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