Bright-colored scarves, prom dresses and designer T-shirts straight out of New York City — this is the sight patrons can expect to see when walking into Deja Vu Boutique. The boutique, which came under new management in early April, has seen many changes since its switch in ownership.
“We’re trying to bring in better brands and more youthful things,” said Alabaster Slade, owner of Deja Vu.
Slade bought the boutique out of what he describes as fate. He became aware of the opportunity to buy after his other business, Guerilla Tattoo, participated in a cross-promotion with local photographer Jeremy Wolfe and other downtown Shippensburg businesses.
Wolfe dressed models in clothes donated by Deja Vu and photographed them at local storefronts to promote downtown business. During the promotion, Slade saw the “For Sale” sign in the window and knew it was the perfect opportunity.
“I always wanted to open a shop like this,” Slade said. “As soon as I walked in, it was perfect. It felt like fate.”
Slade and his co-owner Melissa Dupert officially became the owners on April 1. After working around the clock to get it ready, they opened on April 7. Slade splits his time between the boutique and his tattoo shop, while Dupert works at the boutique.
“We’re unique, hip and affordable,” Dupert said.
The boutique’s inventory is now an even split of new and used clothing, some straight from wholesalers and some from consignors. Slade hopes to cater to men and women in their mid-20s who are looking for unique, fashionable clothing and accessories, but also has clothes and accessories for children.
Dupert and Slade also hope to incorporate more urban fashions, inspired by New York City’s street wear scene. The boutique currently sells T-shirts by famous brands such as Obey and Mishka, for a fraction of the cost.
“I want it to be a store like in NYC, Philadelphia or Baltimore, but right here in Shippensburg,” Slade said.
While Slade and Dupert have many ideas for the shop, some things have stayed the same. For example, the previous owner left her extensive collection of dresses, making Deja Vu one of the most popular destinations for prom shopping in the area.
Deja Vu Boutique is located at 7 S. Earl St., Shippensburg. It is closed on Sundays and Wednesdays and is open Mondays and Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. For more information visit facebook.com/DejaVuShip.
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