When the Mall of America built its north wing, it had hoped to fill it with small boutiques and upscale retailers. But so far, it’s been filling up with stores from major chains such as Anthropologie, TOMS, and fast-fashion retailer Zara (reportedly opening soon). That is, until today’s news that a new multi-brand storefront, dubbed Debut, will open on November 16 in the north wing. The innovative concept pairs goods from a mix of Minnesota retailers and startups as well as some national brands that emphasize craftsmanship, quality, and classic style. Debut’s merchandise will evolve throughout the year with a rotating selection of goods and vendors. The initial launch includes:
- Askov Finlayson, the celebrated North Loop menswear store with an emphasis on outdoors wear founded by Eric and Andrew Dayton;
- Woolrich, a classic American outdoor outfitters heritage brand and America’s oldest manufacturer of outdoor wear;
- Fisher and Baker, a new men’s outdoors wear brand founded by Minnesota entrepreneur Gregory Horvitz that emphasizes style and functionality;
- Todd Snyder + Champion, a stylish athleisure collaboration between the casual-chic menswear designer and the athletic gear brand;
- Shepherd of Sweden, a Swedish brand that blends traditional craftsmanship and modern design for its line of sheepskin slippers, rugs, mittens, and boots;
- Pomegranate, a home textile and resort wear wholesale company based in Lexington, Kentucky;
- Billykirk, an L.A. brand that designs U.S.-made leather and canvas belts, bags, wallets, and other small accessories;
- West Elm LOCAL, the home store’s local division that sells handmade goods by local makers; and
- Laurel Way, Minneapolis designer Pam Mondale’s new sterling-silver jewelry line
Apart from Askov Finlayson and West Elm LOCAL (which is sold at West Elm’s Edina location), Debut will be the first storefront in the Twin Cities to feature goods from these brands.
