The esteemed fashion label Dôen, spearheaded by the visionary sisters Margaret and Katherine Kleveland, recently inaugurated its sixth boutique on the charming island of Nantucket. This significant expansion into New England was marked by an exquisite weekend-long celebration, drawing close friends and notable figures from the fashion world. The event served as a testament to the brand's flourishing journey and its deep-rooted connection with a supportive community, especially among other successful female entrepreneurs.
\nDôen's New England Expansion and Star-Studded Celebration
\nFollowing the successful debut of their Sag Harbor location, the all-American fashion brand Dôen has proudly opened its newest store at 32 Main Street in the picturesque town of Nantucket. This milestone was commemorated with a series of delightful events organized by the Kleveland sisters over a weekend, celebrating not just the new boutique but also the strong bonds within their extended circle.
\nThe festivities commenced with an invigorating Pilates session led by Sheryl Tess of Core Pilates, setting a vibrant tone for the weekend. Guests were then treated to a scenic boat excursion on the Atlantic, indulging in delectable lobster rolls, truly embodying the essence of Nantucket's coastal charm. A unique highlight was a custom embroidery session with Steplane, offering a personalized touch to the shopping experience, an attraction that will remain available throughout the summer season.
\nNantucket emerged as a natural choice for Dôen's expansion, given its flourishing landscape of female-led brands such as Tuckernuck and Hill House. Margaret Kleveland, expressing her gratitude at a celebratory dinner held at the elegant Chanticleer restaurant, remarked on the exceptionally warm welcome received. She highlighted the invaluable insights gained into Nantucket’s rich history and entrepreneurial spirit, thanks to gracious hosts like Sarah Lanni.
\nThe grand dinner at the Chanticleer was a lavish affair, with exquisite dinnerware provided by Porta, a company owned by friend Francesca del Balzo, and gourmet caviar supplied by Celine Yousefzadeh of Cyk Kitchen. The guest list was a who's who of accomplished women designers and founders, including Nell Diamond, Madeline Grayson, September Votta, and Isabel Wilkinson Schor. These distinguished guests showcased their solidarity by effortlessly blending Dôen's signature smock dresses and romantic floral prints with pieces from other beloved brands like Hill House, Tuckernuck, and Attersee.
\nThe arrival of the Dôen boutique has been met with immense enthusiasm from both locals and frequent visitors to Nantucket. In just a month since its opening, the store has become a sensation on social media, with countless TikTok videos showcasing its charm. The boutique features a curated selection of Dôen’s best-selling items, alongside rare and exclusive inventory often sold out online. The brand's distinctive smock dresses and enchanting floral patterns are now a common sight across the 14-mile island, adorning women of all ages. Anticipation is also building for Dôen's upcoming fall collection, with hints of stunning emerald green dresses and playful striped designs spotted on the Kleveland sisters themselves.
\nSarah Lanni perfectly encapsulated the joyous atmosphere, declaring it a "happy moment" and a "happy summer" celebrating her cherished friends and their beautiful creations in a place that holds immense personal significance.
\nFrom a journalist's perspective, Dôen's successful expansion into Nantucket serves as a compelling case study in strategic brand growth and community engagement. By choosing a location that aligns with their brand ethos and demographic, and by fostering genuine connections within the local business community, Dôen has not only opened a new store but has also seamlessly integrated itself into the island's fabric. The emphasis on collaboration, as seen through the involvement of other female-founded businesses in their launch events, showcases a refreshing model of mutual support in the competitive fashion industry. This move signals a strong understanding of market dynamics and a commitment to building a brand that resonates deeply with its clientele, promising continued success for the Kleveland sisters' enterprise.