Spotlight: Metro Boutique
Quietly tucked into the corner of Hawthorne and SE 35th Avenue, Metro Boutique has built a loyal following for over twenty years. Open year-round, Metro Boutique is Portland’s local costume boutique, carrying a large selection of party clothing, costumes, hosiery, masks, rave wear, platform shoes, wigs, lingerie, body jewelry and much more. “The shop has really helped me feel comfortable with myself,” Drew, the store manager, shared. “It encourages the community to express and celebrate themselves.” Metro’s owner, Helen, shares with us more about the business.
Metro carries a wide variety of products!
Helen: I like to think that I shop for the store like a toddler going after shiny things that make me feel good and happy - like our funny socks and bright tights. We also carry items from abroad: lingerie from Brazil, corsets from the UK, and men's clothing from all over. We carry a little bit of everything and strive for uniqueness. We also dress people up for all the events in their lives: themed weddings, music festivals, and gender affirming outfits that help people find, among other things, their voices.
You took over the shop in 2008. How has it changed over time?
Helen: With the economic climate nowadays, businesses need to be nimble and adaptive. Metro used to be more alternative and heavier into the goth community. Now, it's more of a party scene. I want to have a little bit for everyone. Our customers also share with us what brands they like. I look them up, and sometimes, Metro ends up carrying those products.
What role does the community play in your business?
Helen: Metro Boutique is community-oriented. We do booths at events, such as the Pride parade, mostly to support our customers and employees. Metro supports local schools and actively engages the Hawthorne Boulevard Business Association (HBBA) and—shameless plug—its annual street fair. I just became the President of HBBA after serving as the VP for about 7 years. Finally, Metro also gears-up for specific events so our customers can trust us that we’ve got what they need. Indeed, as Metro’s saying goes, “we put the fun in everyday!”.
