We’ve got high-end shops and budget friendly boutiques, but there’s middle ground left to be covered, and Nicole Kwon’s new West Village boutique is fresh and exciting. The New York ready-to-wear designer has worked in the houses of Hussein Chalayan, Vivienne Westwood, and Peter Som before creating her own line, NKWON. It’s this fashion resume that lends a hand to her racks packed with lines exclusive to her shop and collections created by fellow designer friends. (She’ll be carrying Hussein Chalayan come spring 2013.) The shop’s got a pared-down urban thing going on, from the Maria Francesca Pepe ear cuffs, to the soft, layerable SHIN separates, to the row of unisex oxfords and loafers. Other collections include Alice Yim, Josefina Larsson, Sena, Cheap Monday, Thatcher Collection, Sam & Lavi, PJK, A.L.C., and, of course, her own collection of bestsellers, which have been selling out like a new Twilight movie.
Nicole Kwon’s maintains a high-low wardrobe, and her store’s price points reflect that, ranging from $15 to $2,000. Pre-photo session, I got to spend a little time with Nicole and get the scoop on her new digs. She looked effortlessly cool in her sheer white sweater, maxi skirt, patent navy oxfords, and armful of dainty-meets-edgy jewels (all available in her shop). Exactly the kind of gal you want to trust with wardrobe decisions. So, how did Nicole Kwon, worldwide traveler, settle on Dallas as the home to her namesake shop? “I fell in love with the city,” she says. A big thank you from Big D, Nicole. I’m pretty sure it’s going to fall in love with you, too.
Jump for photos.
The jewelry selection includes dainty rings from Catbird, a florescent and glass display of Maria Francesca Pepe cuffs, crosses, and spiked things (bottom left) and a tray of funky under-$50 pieces (top right). I added those agate coasters (top left) on my gift-giving list.
You’ll want your closet to look like this, full of rolling racks packed with basics, skinny-leg denim, party dresses, and standout jackets.
Nicole Kwon’s menswear business has been bustling, too. In cahoots with a local tailor, Nicole is making custom shirts with a mid-slim fit in 100% cotton fabrics that are fully machine washable. (Some are even iron-free.) If they need a tweak, it’s no problem. You can expect your shirt to be tailored and shipped (for free) within three days.
