If fashion makes a statement, then downtown Madison's newest trendy talking point is Atticus, a clothing and accessories shop on the Capitol Square.
Kristin Wild, a UW alum and former buyer for Twigs, opened Atticus in May. Atticus reflects a "downtown, edgy and comfortable" attitude. "The focus is on things that people can wear in Madison," Wild says.
Atticus offers city chic in a casual style that the pre-professional Madison demographic could realistically wear. Be prepared for a tradeoff, though; with metro styles come metro prices. Atticus has the basics, like tunics and T-shirts, but from exclusive designers like Loeffler Randall, Charlotte Ronson and Relwen.
At its first fashion show on Sept. 18, Atticus showcased fall collections that typified the relaxed urban esthetic.
For women, LnA stretch leggings come in various colors and with zippered ends ($99). Pierce Jeans' sleek dark denim pencil skirt ($167) looks just right for the office. And Trovata's navy blue Cleveland schoolboy wool shorts ($158) work well with high boots or leggings.
Atticus is also a haven for the fashionable male. Simon Miler jeans, in straight-leg ($198) and boot-cut ($198), have a nice fit. Both pair with Loomstate's button-down blue and white flannel shirt ($169) made of organic cotton.
Throughout the store, green tags denote eco-friendly pieces, like the vegan handbags by Matt & Nat. Seek out the plum luggage bag ($330) and nifty clutch purses ($132) made of Japanese rice paper.
For Wild, the fall's must-haves are Katharine Hamnett's organic cotton statement T-shirts - "Deliver Us From Evil" and "Vote Democracy." They fit the times, she says with a smile.
Atticus
www.atticusshop.com
608-204-9001
18 N. Carroll St.
11 am-7 pm Mon.-Fri., 9 am-6 pm Sat.
