When philanthropist and Carhartt heiress Gretchen Carhartt Valade passed away at her Grosse Pointe Farms home in 2022 at 97, she left behind an amazing legacy. She also left behind Capricious, a retail fashion staple in the community since 2014. Today, the boutique has been rebranded and renovated to the delight of Grosse Pointe shoppers.
This change has been led by Molly Valade, Gretchen's daughter-in-law and fellow philanthropist. Under its new name, Pearl, an homage to its founder (Gretchen in German stands for pearl), the revitalized boutique opened its doors on September 6th.
While continuing to carry many of its tried and true brands that customers have sought out over the years from Capricious, Pearl also has more elevated lines such as Weekend by Max Mara, Lauren Manoogian, and Hutch for the younger crowd. Spanx athleisure has also been a hit, as has jewelry by Dean Davidson.
"Pearl has a much more modern vibe," says its manager, Gigi Badalamenti. "With 4,000 square feet, it's very spacious with extraordinary artwork and furniture from around the world."
In addition to women's clothing, the boutique hosts monthly pop-up exhibits to offer merchandise, such as men's clothing, that isn't found in the shop daily. "In September, we had Sterr & Doon, formerly Carl Sterr," she says. "They're presently in Birmingham but originated in Grosse Pointe in 1950."
On November 14, 15, and 16, there will be a trunk show featuring handbags from designer Daniella Ortiz. "But, the really big one is going to be in December," says Gigi. "We're bringing back Eugenie merchandise, which is Molly's daughter's store. Before we closed and renovated, Eugenie brought in some of their goods and people were really receptive to them, so they'll be with us again for the entire month."
While Pearl has brought in brands that appeal to younger customers, existing customers are also enjoying all the changes. "It's an amazing space that the people of Grosse Pointe are just loving," she says.
Another thing that long-time customers appreciate is the continuation of the staff, including Gigi, who has worked in Grosse Pointe for the past 12 years. "Gretchen brought me over when she expanded Capricious from just a shoe store in 2018," she says. "I had worked in the Village, and she was a customer of mine. She asked me to help open the new store."
Gigi is thankful that she did, and to have a career that she is passionate about. "I have the best job in the world. I love to dress people - that is my forte, and I work for the greatest family. Gretchen has given back so much to the community, and Molly is the same way - she's just an outstanding human being. And her mother-in-law was very near and dear to me. It's been an honor to work for them."
The other employees are also happy to have stayed on as well. "The staff I have is so invested and knowledgeable," she says. "They love their jobs and love what they do – it's a win-win situation – and we all get to be involved in the world of fashion."
When someone walks through the door and needs assistance, the team is ready and willing to help. "Right now, we're dealing with a lot of fall wardrobing, and what makes Pearl so unique is that we're a one-stop shop," says Gigi. "You can come in and get everything from pair of jeans to a cocktail dress to wear to a wedding. We also have shoes and accessories, so you really don't have to go anywhere else. We can dress you from head to toe."
This lovely boutique offers a curated selection of fashion and design, featuring brands that embody modern luxury while reinterpreting classic notions – it's a great place to gather and share. So, stop by and experience a real gem in the Grosse Pointe community.
ShopPearl.com