Monkee’s Brings Fresh Style to The Woodlands
Monkee’s has swung into The Woodlands, where shop owners Kristin and Dan Durski are bringing a fresh blend of style to the area’s booming shopping scene. What began as a single store in Wilmington and a second in Winston-Salem in 1995 has evolved into a chic, upscale boutique franchise. One that’s now jumped into The Woodlands.
Independently Owned and Operated
Each Monkee’s store is independently owned and operated (there is already a Monkee’s in Houston on Kirby Drive), giving owners the freedom to tailor their shops to reflect the preferences and demands of the local market. This flexibility means that no two Monkee’s stores are exactly alike in inventory or style.
Navigating Distribution Rules
While owners can choose what to carry, they must also navigate distribution rules that safeguard certain brands from oversaturation.
“When you go to market, you have freedom to choose what you want,” Kristin Durski tells PaperCity The Woodlands. “A lot of it has to do with distribution because of protected territories. For example, no one within 10 miles of me could carry Cleobella.”
Durski adds that while Monkee’s owners are encouraged to stock what sells locally, they receive recommendations for proven, popular lines.
“They know Hunter Bell and Maria Oliver sell well, so they recommend those brands,” she reveals.
Shopping Smarter at Monkee’s
The goal is for shoppers of all ages and sizes to feel welcome at Monkee’s of The Woodlands. “My goal is for three generations to come to the store and three generations to walk out with something,” Kristin Durski says. “There’s something for everybody.”
A Simplified Shopping Experience
At Monkee’s, the shopping experience is also simplified.
“Each store is typically arranged by color,” Kristin Durski notes, “If you’re looking for black pants, a black top or a blue or green dress, you know exactly where to go.”
Monkee’s offers accessories like this handmade genuine leather handbag from Tuscany. Featuring a sleek design, gold accents and a stylish wide strap, it’s versatile for day or night. (Courtesy of Monkee’s The Woodlands)
Better In-Store Shopping Experience
Kristin Durski’s other goal for Monkee’s of The Woodlands is to offer a better in-store shopping experience.
“Shopping online, I found myself constantly returning things,” Durski says. “In one style, I can wear one size, but in the next style, I’m wearing another. I wanted people to come to a store, try things on and walk out satisfied with their fit.”
Locations and Hours
In addition to The Woodlands, Monkee’s locations in Texas include Houston, Frisco and Fort Worth, with a new Dripping Springs store set to open later this fall.
Monkee’s The Woodlands is located at 1900 Lake Woodlands Drive, Suite 300. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm Mondays through Saturdays and 11 am to 4 pm on Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Monkee’s?
A: Monkee’s is a chic, upscale boutique franchise with a unique blend of fashion, art, and philanthropy.
Q: How many Monkee’s locations are there in Texas?
A: There are currently three Monkee’s locations in Texas: The Woodlands, Houston, Frisco, and Fort Worth.
Q: What is the layout of a typical Monkee’s store?
A: Each store is typically arranged by color, making it easy for customers to find what they’re looking for.
Q: Can I try on clothes at Monkee’s?
A: Yes, Monkee’s encourages customers to try on clothes to ensure a great fit.
Q: Are there any upcoming Monkee’s openings?
A: Yes, a new Monkee’s location is set to open in Dripping Springs later this fall.
