Maison DNA Crashes Newport’s Style Scene

A Look Inside the Vintage Vortex on Spring Street

It’s been a long time since I’ve found a boutique with such a strong sense of individual concept.

Concept–the driving force behind a store or brand–determines the mood, the attitude, the very essence of a store. Concept is integrated into everything from the physical things in the store (the paint color, the decor, the way clothing is arranged, etc.) to the desired emotional experience for the customer (the culture, the attitude).

I love the minimalist floor sets as seen in Theory, Calypso St. Barth and Vince stores or the more intimate interiors of Jack Wills and Tory Burch stores, but there is something that corporate strongholds cannot quite capture in their concept.

That’s the beauty of small businesses. The concept of any store–whether it’s a gift shop, a clothing boutique, or even a local cafe–cannot be duplicated, because each business is so different.

Even if someone tries to duplicate another store’s concept, good luck to anyone who would make an attempt to copy Maison DNA.

Contemporary, local artwork decorates the walls, but it compete with the more vintage-inspired decor on the floor.   The racks are filled with a mix of period pieces and designer gems, but they’re all fairly priced. There are playful brocades and silks pitted next to classic wool coats that could have easily been stolen from Betty Draper’s closet, but nothing looks out of place. For all of the various vintage eye candy, clothing and accessories artfully merchandised in the store, Maison DNA embodies a relaxed atmosphere.

In other words, this boutique is a vortex of eclectic style. If you’re trying to find run-of-the-mill, preppy clothes, you’ve come to the wrong to place. If you enjoy stepping out of your comfort zone once in a while and enjoy switching up your look, Maison DNA is the store for you.

Whether you’re searching for a vintage piece or just want to see something different from pastel colors and anchors, be sure to stop over at the one and only “House of Designer Genes” in downtown Newport.

Maison DNA

Open Tuesday-Friday, 11 am- 4 pm; Saturday & Sunday, 12 pm-5 pm

Facebook, Instagram, WordPress