The Closet, which started as an online high-end apparel store, has evolved over the last year and is now set on bringing chic and eclectic style to North Amherst. The boutique aims to make fashion more accessible by pricing new and previously loved, designer and high– quality garments at a more affordable price point. “There is something for everyone in the shop, with each piece being unquestionably unique,” says company founder, Andrea Marion. Marion began selling this past summer at artisan and farmers markets around the Valley and soon realized that her inventory and ethos were in high demand.
Come spring of 2022, The Closet will move into its permanent location at 79 Cowls Road, North Amherst. Until then, the boutique has launched a pop-up shop location at The Riverside Shops, 19 Montague Road, North Amherst. The temporary spot is conveniently located right around the corner from the Closet’s future home at North Square. “It’s a great relief to me that I’m no longer single–handedly responsible for North Amherst being fashionable going forward”, jokes Cinda Jones, President of W.D. Cowls, Inc. “Andrea brings high style to The Mill District – at prices we all can afford. We’re delighted to see her debut at Riverside and joining North Square this spring. Our dream of a growing retail destination is getting real with The Closet joining Provisions and the General Store & Gallery. “
Marion had a love of clothing and fashion from a young age; everyday was a new opportunity for self-expression. That passion never went away even though her career path had a different focus. She received a degree in Psychology from Bay Path University, and spent the last decade in nonprofit leadership, working with families experiencing food insecurity and homelessness. Like many others in the workforce during the Covid-19 pandemic, she reevaluated her life goals and made the decision to make a change. She left her executive director position to start an online clothing resale business, naming it “The Closet,” because she wanted to be a walk-in closet for the community; a place where everyone can find that special piece to express their individuality.
Marion shares her current pop-up space with Barbara Xade, a jewelry artisan from Brazil. Xade is the owner of The Crystal Healing and designs crystal jewelry that has therapeutic properties, including incorporating reiki to clean the stone’s energy.
Marion’s mission for The Closet is to create a community through fashion, self-expression, and creativity. “I want to create a welcoming space for all people who love clothing and style,” she says. We sell clothes that are traditionally made for women but we are here for everyone who wants to dress in them, regardless of gender, race, size, or age. It is time to challenge all that prevents us from experiencing self-love and self-expression”. Her ultimate goal is that The Closet will be a gathering place for events, classes, and casual conversations.
19 Montague Road, Amherst, MA 01002 | 413-813-5830 | andrea@thecloset.clothing | www.thecloset.clothing
