Ann Arbor's V2V evolves with changes to store size and special occasion line
Tracey McDowell, left, and Julia Leshan look over the fall collection of wedding dresses just before Thanksgiving at V2V in Kerrytown.
Lon Horwedel | AnnArbor.com
V2V is exactly the kind of boutique I look for while on vacation. When I visit a new town, I like to make my way through the downtown shops, and I am always thrilled when I come across one that has a perfect mix of stylish clothing, and unique accessories.
V2V’s locations in Petoskey, Mich., and Charleston, S.C., are places I would visit in a heartbeat, but I do not need to go that far; the original location is right here in Ann Arbor's Kerrytown.
In recent months, the shop located in the Kerrytown shopping district has reduced its square footage from 9,000 square feet - and is now on the upper level of Kerrytown instead of two floors. It also expanded its special occasion business.
I asked owner Tes Haas how she managed to do that. She says it’s been a good switch.
“We are carrying the same inventory, but transitioned to a more intimate environment.” The store is now 5,000 square feet and the largest of the three V2V locations. The changes make the shop feel more like a boutique, especially in the space where special order and bridal purchases are handled.
The bridal and formal wear department has been a continued area of growth, and the modifications to the store compliment that development.
Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals, and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com.
Comments
Karen Farmer
Tue, Mar 16, 2010 : 11:58 a.m.
Elephant Ears, which is already located in Kerrytown on the second floor, is moving into the remainder space where V2V was (they'll have two levels). Elephant Ears is a children's clothing store and they'll be expanding into more baby gear, furniture and clothing.
A2K
Tue, Mar 16, 2010 : 10:59 a.m.
I agree with Barb on the changes to the original, upstairs-only store inventory...I used to shop at V2V at least 6-8 times per year, but haven't found a single thing there in 4 years (lack of sizes, preponderance of boho/non-tailored items, and steep price increases).
Angela Smith
Mon, Mar 15, 2010 : 6:10 p.m.
Phil, I am still awaiting word on what will become of the downstairs space. I will keep you posted...
Paula Gardner
Mon, Mar 15, 2010 : 1:16 p.m.
A typo was just corrected in the story.
Barb Roether
Mon, Mar 15, 2010 : 11:44 a.m.
Good luck to V2V. It was my very favorite shop to visit when I would come to Ann Arbor in years before I moved here. I miss the years of the great selections of unique clothing that fit many shapes and sizes. There was always such wonderful selections. Through the years of many re-inventions I haved missed the original concept. It would be great for Ann Arbor to have a place like that again. The bridal, special-occasion business is a tough one. Hopefully, someone will get back to the basics for those of us who love fashion and trend for everyday.
Phil Dokas
Mon, Mar 15, 2010 : 11:31 a.m.
Any word on what's moving in downstairs?