The National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis (NCJWSTL) is on the brink of a significant milestone, celebrating the 60th anniversary of its Resale Shop’s cherished annual Couturier event, which draws shoppers from across the country.
This year’s Couturier, slated for September 25–28, will feature more than 25,000 items, including nearly new designer clothing, jewelry, furs, shoes, purses, and more for women, men and children.
Today, not only is Couturier one of the best social events of the year, but it also serves as the nonprofit’s largest fundraiser annually.
A Call to Shop and Support
The idea for the event was created by NCJWSTL member Bede Wolff. Knowing women didn’t like to be seen in the same formal attire more than once, Wolff decided to open up her own home and sell formal gowns. The proceeds were all donated back to NCJWSTL.
As a longtime member of the nonprofit and now its president, St. Louis fashion icon Phyllis Langsdorf has been able to see the growth of Couturier first-hand, even chairing the event in 1976.
“We thought we raised a whole lot of money back then—about $25,000,” Langsdorf recalls with a laugh. “When I first started, it was held at Temple Israel as a three-day event. Today, we see somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,000 people who come through the course of the now four-day event. We have people who fly in just to attend it and people who line up early to get the best deals. Knowing Bede and seeing what it has become today, it’s amazing.”
The event has become so popular in its 60 years, NCJWSTL preps for it year-round, saving the highest-end merchandise donated for the sale. Brands can include Burberry, Kate Spade, St. John, Lululemon, Gucci, Ferragamo, Eileen Fisher, Michael Kors, and more.
“Because we’re a nonprofit, it’s really just incredible we’re able to get these types of items,” says Jessica Duneman, director of retail operations. “People are shopping and donating throughout the year, but what we get donated for this sale is really special.”
The year’s Couturier schedule of events is as follows:
- September 25: 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m. ($100 VIP preview event)
- September 25: 1–4 p.m. ($60 VIP preview event)
- September 25: 4–8 p.m. ($10 preview night)
- September 26: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (open to the public)
- September 27: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (open to the public)
- September 28: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (25 percent off storewide)
Join The Resale Shop on Facebook and Instagram for a sneak peek of designer items that will be available during Couturier.
A Cornerstone of Community Support
Founded in 1895, NCJWSTL has been a pillar of the community for more than 125 years. The organization is dedicated to social justice and community service. Throughout its long history, it has worked tirelessly to effect change, advocating for the rights of women, children, and families across Missouri.
One of NCJWSTL’s most notable achievements is the establishment and ongoing success of The Resale Shop. Founded in 1941, the shop has become a local staple, known for its high-quality, gently used items and commitment to charitable causes.
The Resale Shop is more than just a thrift store—it’s a lifeline for the St. Louis community. About 55 percent of the revenue that fuels NCJWSTL’s community service projects comes from the shop, making it a crucial component of the organization’s fundraising efforts.
The money raised supports a variety of programs, including the Back to School! Store, which provides clothing, shoes, backpacks, and school supplies to around 2,300 children each year.
NCJWSTL also funds Kids Community Closets in 33 area schools, providing students with such essential items as clothing, coats, and personal care items, as well as a number of programs designed to help women after traumatic experiences, including the Healing Hearts Bank, Wife Widow Woman program, and Project Renewal.
These programs, some now nearly 24 years old, are just some of the examples of how NCJWSTL’s initiatives directly benefit the community.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis. NCJWSTL invites you to help make a difference in the lives of women, children, and families, too. Whether volunteering, shopping, donating or becoming a member, NCJWSTL values your contribution to its mission. Visit ncjwstl.org to learn more about NCJWSTL and the important work that it does in the community.
