Tiina the Store: A Unique Fashion Experience
Introduction
Located on Route 27 in Amagansett, N.Y., Tiina Laakkonen’s shop, Tiina the Store, served as a fashion haven for over a decade. With a sense of style similar to that of legendary artist Georgia O’Keeffe, the store offered a meticulously curated selection of minimalist, high-end designs for both men and women.
A Distinct Shopping Experience
At Tiina the Store, customers could find premium brands like Toogood, Arts & Science, Arpenteur, and Dosa, as well as classic labels such as Bergfabel, Elgin of Scotland, and Wommelsdorff. The store also featured unique designs by independent Italian designer Daniela Gregis. By providing a refreshing alternative to the luxury goods prevalent in the East End of Long Island, Tiina the Store offered a welcome respite for discerning shoppers.
Reasons for Closure
After over a decade in operation, Tiina the Store will be closing its doors come September. Tiina Laakkonen, the store’s owner, shares that her decision to close stems from a desire to embark on a new creative journey. Having experienced the rapid growth and overwhelming demands of running a successful business, Laakkonen felt the need for a fresh start.
Seeking a Reboot
In order to explore new possibilities and fine-tune her next venture, Laakkonen decided to shutter the current version of Tiina the Store. She envisions either opening a smaller, more curated version of the store or expanding the concept to a department-store level. Regardless, she aims to leverage the knowledge gained from her previous success and cater to the needs of her loyal customer base.
Redefining Luxury Retail
While the East Hampton retail scene has transitioned into a hub for luxury brands, Tiina the Store tapped into a different clientele. Laakkonen’s customer base, comprised of wealthy individuals seeking refined style, expressed growing dissatisfaction with logo-centric fashion. Rather than aspiring to own prestigious brands, they craved a personal sense of style and individuality.
The Hamptons: A Playground for the Ultrarich
Laakkonen’s experience as a retail anthropologist exposed her to the astonishing wealth and opulent lifestyles of the Hamptons’ inhabitants. The ultrarich, constantly jet-setting between their multimillion-dollar homes around the world, sought a sense of anonymity. In the Hamptons, even billionaires dress casually, making it challenging to discern their immense wealth at first glance.
The Allure of Tiina the Store
Tiina the Store attracted customers by offering a unique shopping experience. Clients could discover fashion labels they had never encountered before, making it a hub for exclusive and hard-to-find designs. Laakkonen’s distinct aesthetic resonated with those who appreciated beautiful items sourced globally. Although the store will be closing, Laakkonen plans to return in some capacity, ready to explore new possibilities in the world of fashion.
