Wendi Martin’s Kick Pleat Boutique may be the new kid on the block, but she was right at home in her Upper Kirby neighborhood Thursday. The store’s private opening party was loaded with local favorites from the Armando’s food truck, chilled margaritas and a selection of clothing and accessories ideal for Houston’s summer months.
Martin’s vision was born in Austin where she opened Kick Pleat in 2003, offering a different take on fashion with pieces that are timeless and interesting. The combination was a hit with Houston shoppers who routinely shopped the Kick Pleat website and begged for a Houston store every trip to Austin.
Since opening at the end of April, Martin has received a warm welcome from shoppers and she’s developing her own crush on the city.
“I love it. I love the people. I love the food. I love the vibes,” Martin said.
The Kick Pleat vibe is definitely earthy and sophisticated, modern, without being trendy. There are familiar labels such as Rachel Comey and Mr. larkin, but Martin said 80 percent of the store is new and specific to Kick Pleat. Horses Atelier, Base Range and Isa Arfen are in the mix.
The opening night party was a breath of fresh air on an otherwise steamy Houston night, and the more than 100 guests were only too happy to linger over icy drinks and spicy tacos.
Those spotted in the stylish crowd included Elizabeth Petersen, Suzanne Duin, Ceron, Ben Johnston, Jennifer Ellzey, Meg Lonergan, Sylvie Christophe; Carrie and Sverre Brandsberg-Dahl, Michelle Fuller-Wigg Marks, Julie Warenoff, Dr. Matthew Galfione and wife Sarah, Sarah Cox, Jessica Barkley, Frances Chenne and Rin Willis.
Roz Pactor, Jil Panky.
The new FIGS store will offer a Color Clinic and Customization Station to let shoppers personalize their FIGS uniforms. Photo courtesy of FIGS/Instagram