Athens, Georgia, might be best known as the home of Sanford Stadium and the Georgia Bulldogs, but it is also home to a thriving clothing boutique culture. Most of the stores cater to fans in search of game-day outfits, and students looking for the perfect look for fraternity and sorority events, according to a recent informal poll conducted for a Journalism course.

There are over 20 boutiques located in downtown Athens, and while many have been in their respective locations for years, there are others that are beginning to grow their name in the classic city.
“Mostly I go for game days,” said third year student, Jenny Mai when asked about shopping at boutiques. Mai said that Fringe is her favorite.

Fringe is located at 153 East Clayton Street, and is moderately new, having opened in May 2016. It is co-owned by another local boutique in Athens, Red Dress boutique. Mai described the customer service as being one of the best, rating them a nine out of 10 stating, “They always greet you when you go in and are very helpful when looking for outfits.”

Although some boutiques can be described as having great customer service, there are a few others that customers believe may be overdoing the friendly attitude. A graduate of UGA and now resident of Athens, Ashton Morrison, described a couple of the boutiques stating, “They’re friendly, maybe a little
fake sometimes if we are being honest.” Morrison said she feels that the stereotypes in boutiques in Athens match just about everything that can be thought of. “They all look like Barbies who work in a boutique,” said Morrison when explaining her reasoning of believing the stereotypes.

Stereotypes about boutiques in Athens range from a plethora of things. Such as, the women who are employed at most boutiques are only sorority girls or that the clothes sold are completely overpriced. Another major stereotype about the boutiques deal with race, and how some women are treated by employees than others. You don’t see too many women of color employed at boutiques downtown, and though it isn’t a valid reason to believe the stereotype it can be eye opening for some.

Customer service in boutiques can be crucial when it comes to keeping loyal customers, but it can also be a breaking point for those who won’t return. Fortunately for Cheeky Peach Boutique, there is a loyal customer who completely loves the atmosphere and help they provide each time she visits. Ivey Thompson is a third year student and is affiliated with the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. When inquired about her experiences there she said, “They are super helpful, but not overly annoying helpful where they push you to buy things.” Thompson enjoys Cheeky Peach and has been since her freshman year of college. She loves how they aren’t too aggressive, and are just right when it comes to pairing outfits. “They drew me in through promos during rush my freshman year,” Thompson said when asked how she heard of the store.

Cheeky Peach Boutique on Instagram: “Status: 364 days to find a Valentine for next year⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ Shop link in bio!⠀ ⠀ #cheekypeach #girlfriendjeans #festivalstyle #suede #springtanks #athensga”

122 likes, 0 comments – cheekypeachFebruary 15, 2017 on : “Status: 364 days to find a Valentine for next year⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ Shop link in bio!⠀ ⠀ #cheekypeach #girlfriendjeans #festiv…”