Storefronts

We briefly went to the Northshore Mall today. I hadn't been there in a while, and I noticed a couple of changes. There's now an Orvis, which, combined with the one in Dedham, explains why the Quincy Market location is being closed. They do seem like a store with more of a suburban clientele anyway, and if someone in the city wants to buy a Barbour coat, they can go to the Barbour store on Newbury Street, or North River Outfitter on Charles.

Also, Brooks Brothers moved from its location next to Macy's to a two-level space adjacent to Nordstrom. I believe the space was formerly occupied by a dark, dull Zara for what seemed like about fifteen minutes. It has been transformed into a much brighter and more pleasant environment. There's a lot more room in this store, and the displays are able to take better advantage of that space.

The former Brooks location has been taken over by a Newbury Comics, which moved from a small strip-mall storefront a short way down the road from the mall. It's funny to see it situated between Macy's and Talbots, but in recent years Newbury has been transforming itself into something of a pop-culture department store, so it makes a certain sense. They carry a lot more clothing now, with emphasis on streetwear and skate brands as well as a generous selection of local sports team gear. Kids still spend plenty of time hanging out at the mall, so I'm sure there's enough foot traffic.

In other retail news, the Nordstrom Rack that is coming to Boylston Street in the former Filene's Basement space will be open within a month's time—I believe March 14th is the date I read.