‘Distinctive and inspirational’: NYT names Portland shops on list of top clothing stores

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — “Distinctive and inspirational.” That’s how The New York Times has described America’s best clothing stores, including a couple in Portland.

The New York City-based publication revealed a list of the top 50 apparel businesses nationwide earlier this week. Shop Boswell was one of two local shops that earned a spot.

Inside Shop Boswell shot by AlyssaLeCompte (Courtesy Brookes Boswell)
Inside Shop Boswell shot by AlyssaLeCompte (Courtesy Brookes Boswell)
Inside Shop Boswell shot by AlyssaLeCompte (Courtesy Brookes Boswell)

“What Brookes Boswell began as a business selling her line of handmade straw and felt hats is now a sort of general store for cool everyday clothes from a well-curated roster of global ‘it’ brands: Cawley (British), Auralee (Japanese), Camiel Fortgens (Dutch) and KasMaria (American), to name a few,” NYT wrote of the “tranquil” boutique located on 729 SE Morrison St.

Shop Boswell first opened in 2016. In addition to accessories and vintage clothing, it sells home and body products like eye masks, ceramics and candles.

Over in the downtown area, fellow Portland business Stand Up Comedy was also named among the nation’s best clothing stores.

Stand Up Comedy exterior shot by Nicholas Peter Wilson (Courtesy Diana Kim)
Inside Stand Up Comedy shot by Nicholas Peter Wilson (Courtesy Diana Kim)
Inside Stand Up Comedy shot by Nicholas Peter Wilson (Courtesy Diana Kim)
Inside Stand Up Comedy shot by Nicholas Peter Wilson (Courtesy Diana Kim)

“Something funny about Stand Up Comedy is the way the store’s dated appearance is at odds with the look of the attire it sells. The space’s heavy glass-and-wood cabinets and wall-to-wall navy carpeting — relics from its past life as a jewelry store — are kind of the opposite of fresh,” NYT wrote

While the shop on 511 SW Broadway opened nearly 20 years ago, NYT said its owner, Diana Kim, has maintained a selection of clothing and accessories from emerging brands like SC103 and Ottolinger, along with pieces from established brands like Comme des Garçons and Issey Miyake.

The publication initially identified more than 120 stores that were eligible for the list. Fashion reporters then narrowed down to 50 businesses after scouring the shops, both in person and online.

Seattle’s Windthrow, an outdoor apparel and equipment store, was the only Washington business on the list.