Ken Oringer’s Coppa isn’t the only new kid on the block —
“the block” being Shawmut Avenue. The South End’s newest retail addition, Flock
(274 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, 617.391.0222), gracefully entered the Boston
shopping scene a few weeks ago. With a contagiously optimistic energy and
warmly welcoming atmosphere, Flock offers an array of designs that you’ll want
to keep in your closet forever. We recently chatted with owner Danielle Kupsc,
a 26-year-old Cohasset native, about her latest labor of love.
What’s the inspiration for Flock? I want women to
realize that they can dress comfortably without sacrificing their style. Boston
tends to follow a lot of trends, and it can feel forced at times. I want to
bring more of a laid-back style here, a slice of the West Coast in the South
End.
What kinds of lines are carried at the store? We
try to mix familiar lines like C&C California, Lauren Moffatt, and Siwy
jeans with lesser-known designers. We carry an excellent organic basics line
designed by a husband-and-wife team called Stewart+Brown that is very easy to
dress up.
Who shops at Flock? Flock is this kind of place
where a mother and daughter are able to shop together. When it came to buying
product for the store, I did it with my mom and [my friend] Maegen [Thornton]
so we could find a good mix for everyone. Our customers are easygoing, and as
far as personal style goes, I’d say “sophisticated hippie.” But I use the term
“hippie” very loosely.
How did you get into business with your mom, Lisa? Well,
my mother has always been my inspiration when it comes to style. During the
seven years I lived away from home, we always found ourselves bonding over shopping
trips when I came back. I would always joke around about opening a store
myself, and one day she said, “Let’s do it!” and really pushed me to make it
happen. She understands my vision.
What’s the difference between your personal style and your
mom’s? I’m pretty laid-back and easy, whereas my mom dresses up a
bit more than I do. I love to live in my jeans, cotton tanks and tees, and cute
flats. I don’t like to take too much time getting ready in the morning but
still want to look put together. My mom loves to keep up with the trends.
What does every woman need in her closet? A good
pair of jeans that you can just throw on without a thought. And an accessory
that you can wear with almost anything, like a necklace that is special to you,
is easy to wear, and goes with whatever you’re wearing.
What are some of your style tips for this fall? I
think accessories as well as ready-to-wear pieces with studs are great! We have
a great black Chris & Jaime dress with a studded belt, which adds to the
outfit. The Linea Pelle bags we carry also have that studded detailing, which
is the perfect little pop on a simple leather bag. I think
investing in one great coat for the season is a must. Everyone should have a
coat that’s versatile enough to throw on with anything — jeans in the daytime
but also with a dress for a night out. I love mixing vintage
pieces that I find with my new fall wardrobe. There’s something about mixing a
worn, comfortable piece with a new, fresh piece.
