"Never pay retail" - is the motto of Judy Ardella who proudly opened "Twice as Nice," an upscale boutique consignment shop specializing in nearly new and new "better quality" women's clothing and accessories at 450 Interchange Road, Lehighton. The shop is in the same building as "All Lit Up" on Route 209.

At Twice as Nice you'll see the latest fashions, purses and wallets, scarves, evening wear and shoes that are selling at 50 to 70 percent off the prices found in retail stores.Ardella accepts top name items for consignment - so if you received a lovely Coach purse for Christmas that is not your style, but may be perfect for someone else, drop on by and give it up, but then be prepared - you'll likely find something else that suits you. There are also weekly sales. Anyone planning to drop off items should call (484) 560-2305 first to see if she has space to accept items.The store is chock full of jeans, faux fur and dressy or career clothes."I have a constant turnover," said Ardella. "I have many of the better designer clothing items, such as Ralph Lauren and Jones of New York." Many of the clothing items carry original sales tags, proving that the items were never worn."I thought that I was the only one who bought things and never wore them," she said. "I am finding out that many women are like me - they buy clothing and never wear it."That proves to be a winning situation for the ladies who come to buy and want to wear what they buy."A young lady brought in this whole rack of sweaters," said Ardella. "I guess she was tired of them."The sweaters are name brand sweaters, folded up as neatly as they would be in any high priced shop, but the prices are so low it's a wonderment to shoppers.Ardella accepts cash, checks and credit cards.The store also has a nice selection of summer clothing for the shopper who needs to shop for a cruise or tropical vacation. They will find everything they need without a problem."I've always loved clothes and shoes," she said. "The three most important things I love are shoes, jewelry and clothing, so what would be better for me than having a shop that has all three."Ardella noted that shopping in a consignment shop is easier in today's economy.Ardella is the former Judy Graver. She was born and raised in Lehighton.Twice as Nice is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.