Audio By Carbonatix
Thanks to First Fridays, ASU Downtown students, and some funky new businesses — downtown’s offerings are much more attractive than they used to be, but are people really going to haul downtown for a day of shopping? There have been mall-like attempts in the past (Arizona Center, anyone?) which didn’t necessarily flourish. CityScape, however, is trying again.
We surveyed the shopping options now available at the infant center … and jotted down a few noteworthy spots for good holiday, and post holiday shopping.
1) West of Soho
According to owner Mike Beharmon, West of Soho is “bringing a new flavor to the west.” That flavor, as it turns out, isn’t altogether that different from what’s available elsewhere in town. The space utilizes green decor principles: Reclaimed wood, vintage chandeliers and furniture, and concrete flooring.
The clothing is trendy at mixed price points. We found both casual and going-out wear: Inexpensive cardigans, over-the-knee boots, and a bunch of accessories — most things that would fit the style and budget of for a college student’s wardrobe.
For more stores, click after the jump.
2) Workbench
This “pop up” store (it’s inhabiting the space temporarily) features
furniture and housewares from a variety of local artists, like former
Haus-owner Lew Gallo’s wood tables, entertainment centers, and benches,
Christoph Kaiser’s welded-iron tables, and Shauna Thibault’s paintings.
Also available, smaller pieces like picture frames, funky tableware,
and looks-like-wood terrarium pottery pieces. Everything is modern,
well-designed and cool. According to Kaiser, the lease is only 3 months,
perhaps with an option for more … so visit soon.
3) Designer District
This designer boutique is a mix of high and low-end designer-wear for
both men and women. What we saw on the racks: Price-y modern items from
local talent Joy Li, reasonably-priced trendy dresses and faux-leather
jackets from BB Dakota, vintage-looking tees (including some from ASU)
and denim.
4) Urban Outfitters
If you’ve been to an Urban Outfitters, you’ll know exactly what to
expect at the newest branch Downtown: Indie fashion and accessories,
funky books, novelty gifts, and a healthy sale area. The downtown
selection, however, might be a bit less picked over than the more
trafficked locations — just one reason to stop by.
5) Charming Charlie
Two-floors of cheap accessories arranged by color, Charming Charlie’s is
usually a mall staple. The downtown difference: Volume. This store is
enormous.
6) Republic of Couture
A huge selection of designer jeans and a range of affordable be-jeweled
going-out wear — likely for the ASU set. Republic of Couture is
currently having a grand opening sale with 50 percent off of everything in the
store “for the next couple of weeks.”
The verdict: Except for Workbench and some of the Designer District
offerings, the shopping is a limited selection of what you might find at
a mall.
The reasons to go: It’s not as crowded, they are offering some
amazing deals right now (50% off everything?!) and you’re a stone’s throw
from some other really cool and unique places nearby (Butter Toast,
Grow Op, Bunky, Mercantile and more).
