By Anna Nguyen
Chameleon-like chic happens, and it’s happening again on Dickson Street, the epicenter of local businesses, as it houses another swanky bazaar.
Monroe Boutique complements equally dashing neighbors Private Gallery and Something Urban, offering more of an elegantly affordable clothing selection reminiscent of contemporary haute couture.
The atmosphere of the store itself is very modern and industrial, and its clean minimalistic appearance allows the clothes to flaunt shamelessly as the center of the attention. Owner Liz Masching describes her store best: “It’s simple, and the clothes speak for themselves.”
Photo By Larry Ash
Masching characterizes her customers as shoppers pursuing merry going-out clothes and basic everyday wear.
“There’s something for everyone for any occasion,” she said.
Frilly bold-colored evening dresses contrast sleeker casual wear in the forms of darker coats and sweaters, with prices ranging from $25 to $80. The jewelry, too, reflects a sense of divergence, exhibiting lucid necklaces and bracelets for the simple shopper while edgy pieces, such as a metal-studded bib necklace, stand out for the brazen client.
Monroe Boutique, named for the owner’s slight obsession with Marilyn Monroe, reflects Masching’s own personal style. While at the markets, she follows easy, straightforward criteria when she handpicks her merchandise.
“I pick out the things I like and hope people will also like them,” said Masching, who is also a hairstylist at the nearby Black Sheep salon. But keeping her clientele in mind, she also has to step out of her own preferences and select items that she knows will sell, she said.
Masching decided to open Monroe Boutique because she thought it would be fun to share her love of fashion with other fashion seekers. The shop used to lodge the now defunct Snap Dragon, and she purchased the space when it became vacant. Despite a time of economic uncertainty for new businesses to stake a risk in the market, Masching is surprised how well her store has done since its grand opening on Halloween, she said.
The location of Monroe certainly also has its advantage as college students are constantly on foot on Dickson Street. The new boutique is also enjoying the camaraderie it has been welcomed with by its neighbors. Amy White-Beard, owner of Something Urban, is thrilled that another boutique has opened up.
“It’s great, I’m all for it,” she said. “All retails are risky at a time like this, but (Monroe Boutique) is at a good location, where the main attraction is at.”
Before Monroe Boutique opened, White-Beard said she had discussed what Masching would supply her store with. Masching had settled on focusing on clothing and accessories and, with Snap Dragon closed, White-Beard thought the market for shoes was missing.
“I’m trying my hand at carrying more shoes and boots,” said White-Beard, who recently expanded the back of Something Urban with a bigger shoe selection. “And so far, it seems to be worth the investment already.”
The investment is also a sentiment shared with Masching, and if Monroe Boutique’s quick success is measured for longevity, Dickson Street shoppers will enjoy an eclectic variation of clothes and accessories.
“I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the store to be open on the long run,” Masching said.
Monroe Boutique is opened from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.