Window Shopping

Stocked Market

by Brooke Williams

If you heard that the new Clintonville boutique Black Market is a designer resale store, you heard right. If you thought it sold new women's looks, you'd also be correct. If you heard it was a consignment shop for emerging local designers, right again.

Black Market is an amalgamation of new and old, a fusion of local and national designs. Frilly Japanese dresses are displayed alongside deconstructed blazers with decidedly punk-rock undertones.

At the center of the stew is Kelli Martin, a 26-year-old Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising grad and local designer. After attending school in L.A., Martin returned to her Ohio roots—but not without gaining some valuable experience and confidence.

She was the recipient of a coveted full scholarship sponsored by the legendary Bob Mackie, which provided for her materials to create a 10-look professional-grade fashion show of her designs.

Martin has been selling her Anti.Label designs via the Internet since 2000, running a virtual shop on eBay (which she still maintains). Last fall, Martin further channeled her inner entrepreneur, opening Black Market on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving widely known as the biggest shopping day of the year.

Martin anticipates that the store's awning permit will arrive in time for a proper grand opening in mid-May. The store's interior, however, is already open, fully furnished and stocked with what Martin calls "the best of the best of unique new and used women's clothing."

Black Market

2579 N. High St., Clintonville

614-263-9266

A few Anti.Label pieces are currently for sale (she calls her own line "something like Betsey Johnson, only tough"), although Martin's goal is to eventually showcase an entire rack of locally designed clothing.

As if Martin hadn't already created a truly unique shopping experience, she also offers on-site alterations on pieces purchased in the store, and will even alter outside items that may need just a little nip or tuck to become the most beloved in your wardrobe.

Black Market's prices are modest; dresses run from $24 to $48, tops from $14 to $22. Several pairs of Marc Jacobs denim can be found gently used for under $30.

Martin insisted this is part of the store's charm: unique pieces without the pretension of designer and vintage shops. Said Martin, "I want it to be a comfortable, friendly neighborhood place—not an intimidating store with jerks for salespeople."

March 29th, 2007