aper hearts frame the storefront window of Blue Boutique. Stepping inside, multi-colored scarves and beaded bangles hang from walnut-toned furniture. Gold-rimmed mirrors decorate the walls alongside posters of Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon. A rustic leather couch sits outside of the dressing room, a sharp contrast to the lace top on a mannequin nearby. It’s like walking into the bedroom of a much cooler, fashion savvy friend.

Blue, a division of Goodwill, opened in Downtown Kent on Jan. 20 and features gently-used designer clothing, shoes and accessories at thrift store prices. Recent labels include Michael Kors, Giorgio Armani, Dolce and Gabbana, and Chanel.

“I would describe the style as eclectic,” said April Clem, assistant manager and senior fashion merchandising major. “We don’t have one certain style; we have a range of categories and labels. It’s a unique, one-of-a-kind boutique deal.”

In the back of the store, a chalkboard display beside a medley of vintage hats welcomes visitors to the boutique. Clothes are arranged by color on their racks, ranging from taffeta cocktail dresses to denim vests.

Whether you’re looking for a pair of orange pumps or a sequined flapper style hat, you could probably find it here.

“We get a lot of fur coats,” Clem said. “Once we got one in zebra print.  We’ve also gotten platform disco shoes from the ’70s and a Valentino suit. Those are some of the craziest things I’ve seen so far.”

In addition to an exotic assortment of designer accessories, Blue also sells jeans and T-shirts from brands such as Hollister and American Eagle. It’s the kind of place that pairs a bohemian vibe balanced with Maroon 5 playing through the speakers.

“I like that we’re bringing designer brands that would never get noticed at Goodwill here to college students so they have a chance to get them,” Clem said.

Blue serves as a viable alternative to retail store shopping by repurposing gently used clothes to keep them out of landfills.

In the future, Clem said Blue hopes to expand more into men’s, children’s and bridal items.  

Blue Boutique is located at 118 E. Main St. and will host an official grand opening on April 11. The boutique is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday’s from noon to 5 p.m. 

Contact Jamie Brian at [email protected].