This weekend, Clodhoppers played host to a trunk show by Nashville, Tenn. fashion label Leona, where pieces from their autumn/winter and holiday 2012 collections were on display for viewing and purchase. The show began with a party at the boutique Friday evening, where libations and goodies were served alongside the fashions. Turnout for the affair was low due to rain, in spite of the fact that the boutique had a functioning roof, but a few did make an appearance.
According to Clodhoppers manager Meggie McMahon, the boutique has been carrying Leona for the 10 seasons designer Lauren Leonard has offered her wares to the public, and was one of the first stores to offer the collection. Graham and boutique co-owner Kathy Reiss-Miller went on to mention a few tidbits regarding future offerings from Leona, including swimwear with ruffles and various feminine flourishes, as well as dresses for Derby and Oaks 2013.
While waiting for more customers to brave the wet tarmac, I had a chance to ask Reiss-Miller and co-owner Kelly McDonald about the history of their boutique, whose roots were first planted in The Highlands in 1993. Back then, the duo sold “Doc Martens, Converse and Levi’s jeans” at a time where no one else in Louisville carried 1461s and Chuck Taylors. As the years passed, the boutique slowly transitioned into more offerings, followed by a consolidation toward the location in Saint Matthews as a result of their customers favoring the newer store over the original Highlands boutique. To this day, though, the owners still sell to clients from twentysomethings to their mothers and grandmothers, carrying collections that appeal to all ages and tastes from local, regional and national designers.
For more information on Leona, visit their website at www.leonacollection.com.
Clodhoppers is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. They are located at 3727 Lexington Road.
Photos: Louisville.com/Cameron Miquelon.
