Holding an Ink + Alloy bracelet or pair of bead earrings in your hand is a sensory experience, founder and CEO Gretchen Hollingsworth says, and the brand’s first brick-and-mortar store, in Chicago, gives customers a cool place to do so.
A retail location is a natural progression for Ink + Alloy, says Hollingsworth, who’s developed a following for the bold, bohemian styles she’s sold online since 2015. The store opened in June at 3530 N. Southport Ave. in Chicago and includes event space for people to meet and mingle.
The boutique’s modern, effortlessly chill vibe fits the attitude of the jewelry and accessories Hollingsworth makes. It also serves as a way for people to participate in her brand’s founding mission to empower women, particularly in India.
Hollingsworth created Ink + Alloy after a transformational trip to India, and she supports people in the country through her store and products. A portion of the proceeds from each Ink + Alloy purchase goes to Commit2Change, a nonprofit organization that helps girls and young women across India and Southeast Asia get an education.
“We strive to carry this mission through the products we make and the way we practice business as a whole,” Hollingsworth says. “Our stores give people a fun space to let their personal style go wild while also doing good.”
The shop was designed to feel “bright, bold, fun, and full of life,” Hollingsworth says. It is easy to spot the entrance, with its sleek metal sign and large windows that offer a view of Ink + Alloy’s jewelry and accessories made with colorful seed beads and upcycled brass.
Inside, the walls feature a rainbow of colors that draw your eyes to the array of earrings and compel you to move through the store, exploring each display.
“We sell earrings, bracelets, necklaces, hair accessories, key rings, hat bands, clutches, and more,” Hollingsworth says. “Plus, we sell beautiful Assouline travel books that help set the tone for creative exploration, even if you are staying in the comfort of your own home.”
Ink + Alloy, which is maintaining its website and wholesale business, also has pop-up shops in Texas, New York City, and Southern California during 2023.
This month the Chicago shop has been hosting a Leo event to celebrate people who born under this zodiac sign. The store is holding live music performances and sip-and-shop gatherings, and participating in local events, like the neighborhood’s Pride festival.
“It was important for us to have a real connection with our customers and show them who we are as a brand,” Hollingsworth says. “While our e-comm site is fantastic, we know how personal jewelry is to people. The process of selecting pieces that evoke personality and creativity for each person is so fun to do in person.”
Top: At Ink + Alloy’s new Chicago store, customers can have fun, inspiring experiences shopping for jewelry. (Photos courtesy of Ink + Alloy)
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter
Follow JCK on Instagram: @jckmagazineFollow JCK on Twitter: @jckmagazine
Follow JCK on Facebook: @jckmagazine
