maribel — Local services in Oakland

Maribel is a true gift to our community. My most memorable and favorite garments have come from Maribel.

I 100% agree with D. Hoover: Please don’t mistake the staff’s lack of engagement for unfriendly or unwillingness to accommodate. The shop offers a hands-off, peaceful environment to browse. A lot of the staff are a bit shy and just like to let you do your thing. Thats a good thing.

They offer a highly curated selection. Everything is super cute, great condition. Don’t go looking for deals here, they know the value of the items they offer. The items are much, much better then anything I could buy new online or at a typical store because they offer such variety and curation.

In general, I have been very hesitant to shop 2nd hand. I get overwhelmed at big thrift stores. I was thinking that with second hand thinking I could never find anything in my size, and if I did that I would be so seized with the desire to say yes that I would wake up the next morning realizing I had made a really bad choice.

Maribel has totally changed my perception. There is actually a ton of things in my size. With such careful curation, I feel like there are stylists choosing the items they want me to consider. I have found a ton of stuff that I just love, because I know that they are in excellent condition with luxurious fabrics and excellent fit. I love knowing I can drop by just to browse because every day something new appears. Never boring. I even found that Babaa sweater I had really...

Over the last year the shopping experience has changed significantly. I have purchased several quality pieces here over the years. Each of my recent visits have been marred with some bit of hostility as I enter the shop. Perhaps I remind them of someone who has stolen or exhibit violence. When I start looking, I’m followed or approached and immediately asked to put my purse or bag behind the counter. I noticed another women ( older with more bags or carry-ins ) not asked to nod the same. Perhaps my dark skin is scary. Ok. I didn’t say anything. Just left the store. I guess they chose who they want to serve now. Service use to be fun when they first opened. Guess people who look like me aren’t trusted. Whatever. I tried to support smaller stores. This is why you just pay more at...

I love to stop in and visit Maribel when I go to the East Bay. I live in Marin--so I don't get to go often. But when I do, I have had success every time. I wanted cowgirl boots the last time I was in--and they had my size and color!! I was lucky. I'll admit, I have the best success with shoes at Maribel. Not only have I found cowgirl boots, I also found a pair of Hunter rainboots at a reasonable price. And many months ago I found a great pair of red flats that are accented with gold--unique and cute.

Highly recommended. The thing with consignment shops, you have to be willing to check it out often. The merchandise changes...