35 Perry St., Chester NJ 07930
973-945-9133
‘You’re Not in Kansas Anymore’ boutique adapts to meet the new trends and lifestyles
For twenty years, You’re Not in Kansas had cultivated designers and artists to offer an alternative to “fast fashion” carrying unique pieces that fit clients’ styles and personalities. And then COVID-19 hit in March of last year. Like so many other small businesses, owner Barbara Chupick had to make some quick decisions. The store closed for a few months, but Chupick stayed connected through social media, emails, and through conversations around town. Her loyal following knew she’d open again, the question was when.
What’s made “Kansas” such an enduring and fun presence in local fashion is the high degree of consultation customers receive when they visit. They know they’ll see something new upon each visit, and know they will find what works with their personal style. “You have a good eye,” many visitors say, and they tell their friends. The authentic word-of-mouth excitement that the store has always enjoyed, in fact, helped it reopen later in the year.
Now the store is positioned for what’s likely to be a very different holiday shopping season with major consumer brands unsure of their supply. For a boutique, the challenge is to spot trends early and find niche designers to match them. While some of Chupick’s favorite designers remain on pause or are held up by import issues, others such as high-end “wearable art” purveyor, An Ren, are back.
Curated alongside Ren and others, are accessories and jewelry at every price point. You might find the perfect earrings in the display case at $30, or chance upon something entirely unique such as the large statement-piece rings featuring semi-precious jewels signed by John Paul Gaultier that sold out quickly last winter.
With both the changes in what’s being designed and available, and the changes in lifestyle due to the Pandemic, Kansas is adapting by focusing orders and collections, and by stocking the store more frequently beyond the four distinct fashion seasons. There are nods to the casual trend. “I never thought I’d say this, but I just displayed a collection of graphic t-shirts,” Chupick said of the early Holiday arrivals she’s received from designers.
You’re Not in Kansas Anymore is located at 35 Perry Street in Chester. Store hours are currently Friday and Saturday from 11 to 5:30 and Sunday from Noon until 5:30. Extended Holiday hours to be announced soon. Call 973-945-9133 for more information or visit the store’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kansasinnj.