The first day of spring arrives in a few days, and even though winter hasn’t quite released its icy grip, those fuzzy sweaters and fleece-lined jackets are already starting to look so last season. “If you’re ready to update your wardrobe and winter-weary outlook, West County Center has everything you need,” says marketing director Justine Robinson. “Along with our outstanding lineup of top-tier shops, we’re gearing up for spring and summer by opening two new stores and an exciting addition at Nordstrom.”
Last month, Nordstrom began carrying shoes by Topshop, the British fast-fashion chain beloved by fashion editors, rockers, and trend-setting Kates such as Middleton and Moss. Clothing and accessories will be added next month. “It’s a young, vibrant line, catering to fashion enthusiasts looking for on-trend fashion options at an accessible price,” Robinson explains. “The line is exclusively available in St. Louis at Nordstrom, so it’s bound to make one of our most popular stores even more of a draw.”
Another welcome addition is Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics, scheduled to open on the upper level near Macy’s this month. “Lush is a leader in natural, organic cosmetics, perfumes, soaps and shampoos, and the amazing scents and luxurious textures can transform any bathroom into your very own mini spa,” Robinson says. “It’s the ideal choice for anyone who wants to welcome spring with an indulgent new personal-care routine.”
And construction recently began on an Ivivva Athletica store, one of only 13 in the entire country. “Ivivva, a division of lululemon, is the premier destination for young girls’ activewear,” Robinson says. “The brand encourages and celebrates movement by designing pieces for every sport and activity.” The high-quality line is as practical as it is colorful and stylish, she adds. “They use high-performance, moisture-wicking fabric with serious stretch, so you’ll look and feel great while you’re working out.” The store, scheduled to open in early summer, will occupy 750 square feet on the mall’s upper level.
These new stores join other recent additions to West County Center, including Gap, GapKids and Banana Republic. Altar’d State, which opened late last year, offers a wide array of women’s apparel, accessories and gifts. “CBL & Associates Properties, the center’s parent company, takes pride in attracting major national retailers like The North Face to the center, while also welcoming locally owned businesses like Geranium, a boutique that features upscale brands at incredible prices, and Sweet & Sassy, a children’s salon and spa,” Robinson notes. Time-tested favorites such as Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor, Francesca’s and The Limited continue to delight style-conscious shoppers.
Calibrating the right mix of stores for fashion-savvy West Countians is both an art and a science, Robinson notes. “At CBL Properties, we constantly monitor sales, evaluate tenants, and connect with consumers via Facebook and Twitter to make sure we’re delivering what they want: the latest trends right off the runway. It’s our job to know what you want—before you know you want it.”
Photo: Bill Barrett
[West County Center, located at the intersection of I-270 and Manchester Road, is gearing up for spring and summer with new stores and additions. For more information, call 314.288.2020 or visit shopwestcountycenter.com.]
