Thrift Boutique Opens on Northampton Street

At the Treasure Closet Wednesday afternoon, owner Chester Vassell was nowhere to be found inside the store.

Instead, he was in one of the thrift shop's windows, decorating. The idea was to draw in people beyond those looking for, say, a new pair of shoes.

The Treasure Closet—at 466 Northampton St.—opened on Valentine's Day in a space across from the State Theatre.

The store's stated mission is "To make it affordable to all," but Vassell said shoppers shouldn't mistake affordable for cheap.

"Some people are like 'Thrift stores...ehhhhh,'" he said. "You can really get some great values if you don't mind rummaging."

The store carries clothing for men, women, children and babies, some of it used, some of it still bearing the original tags. There's also a selection of used books, toys and movies.

Eventually, the store wants to add a small gift section, said Vassell's co-worker Martha Roulhac, with flowers and balloon arrangements.