Fashion + Furniture = Fantastic
What you’ll find now that Staxx, downtown Springfield’s best-known boutique, has redesigned.
Photo Edward Biamonte
THREE-YEAR UPDATE: Staxx’s new look better fits its cutting-edge appeal.
ATMOSPHERE: Charcoal tile floors combine with white brick walls and deep teal accents for a warm and inviting shopping experience. Funky metallic wallpaper and tall twigs in vases create depth and give this large store a cozy feel. The antique tin ceiling pays homage to this historic building located at the very center of downtown Springfield.
KEY PERSON: Meghan Chambers, daughter of SRC Holdings mogul Jack Stack, opened Staxx in March 2004. Along with the look update, she recently added several new lines of clothing.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND: Staxx carries both men’s and women’s clothing and an impressive variety of designer denim. I found styles by Rock & Republic, True Religion, Chip and Pepper and Citizens For Humanity, just to a name a few. You’ll find more than eight lines of men’s denim and at least 15 lines for women. One of the most intriguing lines for men is Nudie jeans. These untreated denim jeans are meant to be worn, unwashed, for six months so they can conform to your body and your daily habits. Once the six-month period is over, wash the jeans, and they will fade to create your own personal pattern. At $262, think of them as couture denim.
Women can find a real treat in fashions by Missouri State graduate Madison Marcus. I loved a white sleeveless trapeze top of silk chiffon priced at $198. With the traditional styling and fresh details, it’s an investment piece that can be worn for years. Also check out her line of dresses that are perfect for summer weddings and special occasions.
While many styles are high-priced investment pieces, inexpensive items can be found here, too. The hottest flip-flops by Havaianas start at $13 per pair, and I’m willing to bet your current flip-flops are in need of replacement. Stylish sunglasses are $14 to 16 per pair.
Every fashion-conscious woman has several T-shirts in her closet, and Staxx is the perfect place to get the latest styles. Funky, faded styles by Retro Sport start at $36, but it’s hard to pass up the tees by Rebel Yell. These incredibly soft tanks and T-shirts feel like you’ve had them for years. The styles are fresh and cool without making you look like a fashion slave. They start at $94, but you’ll wear them until they fall apart.
Every great boutique has great accessories, and Staxx is no exception. For the true fashionista, check out the jewelry, belt buckles and key chains by Virgins, Saints and Angels. This independent brand features many designs that have been blessed by priests and are said to bring the wearer peace. I loved the San Benito keychain for $52 and the belt buckles for $216. For the party girl, check out the leather evening bags by Solas for $160. They light up when you open them, so you can find your lip gloss in the dark.
If you fall in love with any of the furnishings and accent pieces in Staxx, don’t be afraid to ask the price. Most of the pieces are for sale. Designs by local firms Decorize and the workshop 308 can be found all over the store. The glass case containing jewelry can be taken home for $1,200.
417 VERDICT: A fresh new look, cool clothes and a knowledgeable staff make Staxx a downtown must-visit. If it’s been a while since you visited, be sure to give it another look. I left with a killer new top you can bet I’ll be wearing all summer.
Savvy Shopper is a monthly OPINION feature guiding readers to independent local stores. Have one to suggest? Please E-mail us via editor@417mag.com.
