Contrary to whatever the mass populace believes, shopping isn’t always easy. Style, size, comfort and price must all match up in one magical place, and it can be frustrating when that doesn’t happen.
And that’s why walking into Maddox is a breath of fresh air. The women’s clothier is nestled into Main St. Argenta, and according to owner Heather Baber, it’s all about making sure shoppers feel at home when they walk in the door.
“I wanted the store to have a high-end feel, but for everyone to feel comfortable,” Baber said. “It sounds like a lofty goal, but I think it’s totally possible to have a shop with clothes that appeal to all ages, all sizes and that are affordable.”
If that’s the goal, then Maddox has achieved it. Shelves are stocked with a wide range of styles, prices and sizes (from small to 3X) all selected with intentionality and based on customers’ needs. Sometimes that means needing a specific item for an event, and sometimes that simply means needing to not look like every other girl on the street. In both cases, shoppers will find those stocked shelves full of limited supplies of unique pieces.
Since the store launched online in December 2014, the selection has only grown to include more options. The accessory portion has expanded to include jewelry, purses, hats, Bang-Up Betty items and now even a few novelty items like mugs printed with misheard lyrics (“Hold me closer, Tony Danza”) or T-shirts with “Game of Thrones” references.
Though the brick-and-mortar location has only been open since October, Maddox already has loyal shoppers, and part of that is thanks to the welcoming nature of the shop.
“It’s like you’re hanging out with friends. We can talk fashion if you want, and I’m going to offer you a drink when you walk in.” Baber laughs, “I love the reactions I get from first-timers when I ask that.”
Even guys along for the shopping trip can’t complain when they spot the Maddox Man Cave in the back. The leather couch and giant TV are football season favorites, but don’t be surprised if you find Chip and Joanna on the screen any given afternoon.
It’s clear that helping people is a passion for Baber and the team at Maddox.
“I know not everybody gets to go do their dream job, and I never thought that I’d be able to do that,” she says. “Being able to boost the confidence of the women who come in here, especially those who feel nervous or are on a tight budget, that’s what makes it special.”
Maddox is located at 419 Main St. in North Little Rock. Store hours are 12-6 p.m. on Monday, 10:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. Sunday.
Check out the Maddox website to browse style options, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest.
Heather’s Picks
The Look:
“I’m not into trends, but off-the-shoulder has always been one of my go-to looks, so it’s kind of cool to see that come back onto the fashion scene.”
The Usual:
“I usually start the day with Mugs Café (iced coffee, no ice) and end the day with Flyway Brewing (the Migrate Pale Ale).”
Sunday Funday:
“I’ve been posting about this on Instagram lately, but I love the thought of people who aren’t from the neighborhood coming to spend Sunday in Argenta. They can grab a drink, do some shopping, go to a Travs game, whatever.”