Hey! We opened a store in Philly!

When I started this company I really have no intention of jumping into brick and mortar retail so quickly. I assumed we couldn't afford it and it wasn't possible. Earlier this year I was looking for a new studio space, something closer to my home and it just so happened that my neighbor had recently renovated a beautiful space in our neighborhood of East Falls. He offered it up as a possible opportunity for a studio. When I walked in the space it was clear that this was so much more than a studio, but had the potential to be a combined retail/ production space. Then it hit me, what if we created a retail space that broke down all the barriers that exist between customers and manufacturers, what if we could invite customers directly into our process of how we make our clothes. And what if we had a space where likeminded women of ALL sizes, all ages, all backgrounds could come together and shop, socialize and connect. Wouldn't that be something. 

So that's what we did! Using funds from our successful crowdfunding campaign, we outfitted the space to include retail space, dressing rooms, our cutting table, a small office for me, and a production studio in the back room. We're still adding additional machines, storage and a lounge area but it is really coming along. And goes to show you don't need tens of thousands of dollars to get started. With a little elbow grease (OK, a LOT of elbow grease) some creativity (with the help of Pinterest) and teamwork, you can create a beautiful retail space on a budget.  

On Thursday, June 28th we officially opened to the public with a grand opening party. A great time was had by all and I ended up having to kick everyone out by 9:30pm ('cause this girl needed some sleep!) Check out the pics below to see for yourself! 

(Clearly I was having a great time) 

Come visit us at 4056 Ridge Avenue in the East Falls neighborhood of Philadelphia. We're open Thursday and Friday 11am-7pm and Saturdays 10am-6pm. We also take appointments on Tuesdays and Wednedays, just drop us an email at hello@alicealexander.co with "appointment" in the subject line to set up a time.

Coming into the store is a great opportunity to get a sense for what our clothing looks like in real life (trust us the images never do them justice). Feel the fabrics, see how we make our clothes, let us help you determine your best size, and shop a carefully curated selection of accessory designers. In addition to shopping right off the rack we also accept in store orders to have a piece made especially for you. 

Happy summer!

XO,

Mary Alice and the team at Alice Alexander 

Images were shot by Tonjanika Smith: https://tonjanikasmith.com

Interior decorating led by Linsey Myers at https://www.revivethisdesign.com