Newtown resident Liz Cooper knows this. That's the whole premise behind her new business, Great Finds and Designs, A Consignment Shop for the Unique Woman and Her Home.

Located in the 99 South Main Marketplace, Great Finds and Designs offers "new and very gently worn" women's clothing and accessories, strictly in style and in season, and selected home decor in excellent condition.

Open since May 5, Liz has already gathered a considerable inventory of labels like Carole Little, Tahari, Chico's, Talbot's, Anne Klein, Banana Republic, Flax and J Crew.

With designer fashions, trendy accents and eye-catching displays, the shop has the look and feel of an upscale boutique.

There are little cocktail dresses from Rabbit Rabbit Rabbit, Ann Taylor and Sara Feinberg, among others.

Shoes from Bandolino, Coccodrillo, Miu Miu, Etienne Aigner and Isaac Mizrahi look like they've never been out of their boxes. There are cute summer purses by Vera Bradley, Liz Claiborne and Kate Spade.

A jewelry display holds colorful glass charms to fit Pandora and Troll bracelets and a wide selection of hand-made pierced earrings by Stephanie Leone of Oxford.

There are crystal vases, photo frames, candle holders, mirrors and more.

"It's evolving," Liz told Voices. "We have a little bit of everything."

Merchandise is offered on consignment, with consignors receiving 50 percent of the sale price.

Items not sold after three weeks are marked down 25 percent; after six weeks, the price drops to 50 percent. Unsold items not picked up after a predetermined time are donated to a charitable organization.

Selection guidelines are determined by customer preference, Liz explained. Items are "priced to sell."

The shop is bright and airy, with two spacious dressing rooms. Everyone is greeted with a smile.

When Voices visited, there were trays of home-made Scandinavian almond cookies and fudge brownies for shoppers to enjoy.

"I love to bake," said Liz. "I hope to bring cookies every day."

Prior to opening Great Finds and Designs, Liz spent 25 years in the human resources field.

"I only worked retail for one day in my life - and I didn't like it," she laughed. "But I've wanted to open a shop like this for years and years."

And while someone else might have hesitated to start a new business in the current economic climate, Liz is confident the time is right for Great Finds and Designs.

"I think it's a great business for this economy," she said. "It's great for women who need to clear out their clutter, as well as women who want to refresh their wardrobe with new things."

In the brief time she's been open, Liz has already built up a base of repeat customers and consignors.

"I want people to feel comfortable walking in here," she said. "I want consignors to feel that what they have is worthy to be looked at for reselling."

The beauty of a consignment shop is that merchandise changes daily; if you don't find exactly what you're looking for today, who knows what tomorrow may bring.

Plus, there are those cookies...

Great Finds and Designs is located at 99 South Main St., adjacent to Sal e Pepe's restaurant and Ricci's Salon.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Consignments are accepted any time during business hours.

Those seeking additional information may call 203-426-0600.