I have received many heartwarming messages and e mails about the closing of Alternative Design Studio. It was wonderful to see so much support as I sold off the remaining inventory. The decision to close was a combination of things…health issues, fatigue, and a soon to expire lease.
I still have the store front for a while and will continue to create and sell my own designs, offer hats from my favorite companies, and devote a lot of energy into building an online store “Hats and Threads”.
I have some time in this location. I have already been informed that when my lease is up, the rent will double. It is a vicious cycle of gentrification.
I will have more regular studio/shop hours starting January 13th.
Until then, please come by the shop and see the new hats I’ve made and the new brands that just arrived: Stetson Caps and Woolrich caps for men.
Thursday Jan. 5th – Saturday Jan 7th, 12-6
I thank you for all the love and support in the last 17 years, and I hope to continue offering amazing hats through “Hats and Threads”.
I’m open to moving into a small store front or being a part of a designers cooperative. If you have any leads, please contact me at elinadavenport@gmail.com
Elina
We love you, Elina!!!! Whenever I wear your hats, people ask about them because the hats are FULL of your wonderful, loving, spirited energy! xoxoxo
Sherry, you always inspire me. I’m so lucky to know you!
I have lived in central Japan for the last 17 years but I have visited my hometown and your wonderful shop on many occasions and continue to survive the somewhat brutal winters (okay, they’re not so bad…just hard on a City girl) wearing two hats from your shop; one a rolled brim superbly warm wool, and one a crocheted fuzzy cat-eared hat.
(The latter was actually my gateway drug to the world of animal-eared hats and they are now something of a signature for me, but I will never forget my first.)
Obviously, my distance has made it impossible to be a regular customer but I am sad to read of your store’s closure nonetheless. I do wish you all the best in your future endeavors and look forward to perusing your online store.
Shyana
I remember the hat you bought and you! How lovely to hear from you. I will continue to make hats, it may just have to be in a new space. Thank you for your comment, it means so much to me.