On The Town: An Avant-Garde Boutique Opens in Detroit

Using the cross roads at the stores inception as the name for Orleans + Winder is the only simple thing about this newly opened boutique. Unique and avant-garde merchandise litters the space, and the shop holds shows that intersect fashion and art. Based on what we can see via social media, it’s an intriguingly mysterious place so, naturally, we had to find out more.

Erin, one of the partners of Orleans + Winder, was born and raised in Michigan, traveled Europe after high school and while she was there, developed a deep respect for Paris, theatre, and fashion and objects that are made with thought and care. When she came back to the states, she received a degree in theatre performance and married her love of theatre with her first love of fashion to start Orleans + Winder.

DG3: Tell us about Orleans + Winder.

Orleans + Winder: My partner and I have wanted to open a concept store for a while now that serves as a platform for fashion, art and objects. We did our research, met with a wonderful boutique owner in Chicago who gave us some great advice, and began contacting designers whose work we have admired for years. We also liked the idea of creating a showroom similar to the ones you find in Europe, that allows the customer a personalized and immersive shopping experience. I am not someone who enjoys shopping at malls and I knew there were other like-minded people out there. Our goal is to redefine what it means to shop for and buy clothing. I am much more likely to purchase a timeless, well made and interesting piece of clothing from someone who has a relationship with the designers they are selling.