ATLANTA — For teens reluctant to hit up some of the city’s slicker — and more intimidating — retail haunts, Cherry Bomb offers an unpretentious alternative.
Located in the city’s counterculture mecca, Little Five Points, Cherry Bomb opened five years ago during a period of change for the famously diverse community. “There was a transition to a more boutique neighborhood from just tattoo shops and punk rock stores,” said owner Shannon Turner. Since then, Little Five Points has blossomed into one of the few Atlanta business districts that allows easy walking, creating foot traffic for Cherry Bomb and its neighbors.
With an unassuming palette of neutral colors punched up with a few funky accents like leopard print rugs, the 2,000-square-foot space feels lived-in and energetic. “[The decor] is not too crazy,” said Turner. “It’s more of a background for the clothes.”
Turner prominently displays teen staples such as denim from Frankie B., Joe’s Jeans, J & Company and J Brand, as well as T-shirts from Butterfly Dropout and Frenzii. She also does a big business in fine leather belts from Leatherock and Bill Adler, plus a wide assortment of unique buckles. Party frocks from Kitty and Corey Lynn Calter have a downtown chic in step with Cherry Bomb’s edgy neighborhood. Other core lines include Plenty by Tracy Reese and L.A.M.B.
Retail apparel prices start at $30 for a Frenzii T-shirt and go up to about $500 for dresses from Single and Tracy Reese.
Cherry Bomb has a separate room dedicated to footwear and handbags, and carries some 300 shoe styles, from brands such as Jessica Simpson and Baci, a line of cowboy boots. Platform and patent leather shoes have been strong sellers this fall, Turner said.
Other trends include deep jewel tones and brocade, but coats, Turner said, are going quickest. She’s already placing reorders.
Turner buys close to season, keeping styles current, but doesn’t let trend obsession dictate her merchandising. Quality of fabric and design is her driving force, along with reasonable prices. “We do pay attention to the trends, for sure,” she said. “But we’re not too over-the-top in price. It’s not too unattainable.”
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The formula seems to be working. Figures for 2006 are expected to stay at the $1 million mark, Turner said.
Cherry Bomb’s steady sales may have something to do with Turner’s quest to meet her customers’ needs. “Starting out, you never really know what customer you’re going to have,” she said. “I feel like I know my customer.”