Shop Girls
1/3Good Vibrations I'm sick of stores that have an arrogant vibe, says Megan (right). Shopping is supposed to be fun. When you walk into Addict you'll hear hip-hop or rock music, and we'll probably be singing along. We want it to feel like a fabulous closet filled with our favorite clothes. Some of the designers we sell are Vena Cava and Cacharel.
Background Check My training is in public relations and Ashley has experience as a buyer, says Megan. The name Addict stood out to us because it represented our obsession with clothing, adds Ashley.
Learning The Ropes We're constantly overcoming unexpected obstacles—like when the air conditioning broke on a hot summer day, says Ashley. But we live for the times when customers tell us we're their favorite store or when we find a new line we absolutely love.
2/3Sweet Sensation When I found this old candy store for rent, I decided on a whim to take it. We had to rip up three layers of flooring, patch holes in the walls, paint, build shelving, and transform the space from run-down to lovely.
Sew Cool As a costume designer and vintage lover, I've always collected clothes. Now I sell my favorite finds, as well as my own line and those of several Hong Kong designers living in New York City. We also do alterations and custom work. Recently, a girl brought in a 1950s dress pattern she bought off eBay. I helped her pick out fabric and update the style to suit her body. She wore it as a bridesmaid dress to her sister's wedding!
3/3Career Change Before opening Jumelle in April 2006, I was a journalist in broadcast television. I started planning the store about a year and a half ago, first by researching and talking to fellow shop owners. I was ready to be my own boss!
Neighborhood Watch Williamsburg is a great artistic, creative community, and as a small-business owner I feel obligated to support and encourage local talent. I sell a number of Brooklyn designers in addition to best-selling labels like A.P.C., Sonia/Sonia Rykiel, and Karen Walker. My must-haves for fall are a Caitlin Mociun herringbone batwing coat and a pair of Loeffler Randall boots.
