>> A peek into the windows of the St. Louis retail world
[a chapter ends]
Left Bank Books will close its downtown location at the end of this month. In a press release, owners Kris Kleindienst and Jarek Steele say the decision came after they were unable to reach an agreement with the store’s landlord. Tentative plans for the independent bookstore include expanding the flagship location in the Central West End or opening a second store somewhere else in the St. Louis area.
[taking care of business]
Ladue’s Colonial Marketplace is now full! The shopping strip underwent a major renovation after being purchased by DESCO Group in 2011 and now boasts a variety of stores. These include City Sprouts, Dimvaloo, The Woman’s Exchange, Sole Comfort and, as of last month, Paper Source, which offers a selection of papers, invitations, announcements, gift wrap, greeting cards and more.
[artisan jewelry]
Crow Steals Fire, offering handmade, personalized jewelry, is now a full-time online business. Metalsmith and founder Donna Fox originally operated the business in her spare time.
[crazy for knitwear]
T&S fashion columnist Ellen Soule brings new contemporary knitwear line Rondina New York to St. Louis. The line, exclusively sold through private showings, was started by Bill Rondina, who also founded Carlisle, Per Se and Etcetera Collections. The collection can be viewed by appointment only (314.749.4993). Prices range from $145 to $495.
[work it]
Fitness equipment store Push Pedal Pull opened a 2,500-square-foot store in the Chesterfield Valley last month, the first in Missouri. The South Dakota-based business operates in multiple states and sells fitness equipment for home and commercial gyms from a variety of brands, including Precore, Life CORE and StairMaster.
By Stephanie Zeilenga