A British clothing and accessories brand with a memorable name is coming to Greenport.
FatFace is slated to open in the former Goldmith’s Toys location at 136 Main Street today, Thursday, May 9. The toy store moved to 128 Main Street last year.
Founded in 1988, the causal-chic brand includes lines for women, men and children along with footwear and accessories. Shoppers can expect FatFace’s summer line to be on full display when the store opens, selling everything from flip flops to hoodies and chinos.
“We have a good range of clothing,” said FatFace U.S. marketing manger Spenser Guay. “It can be dressed up or down.”
The brand gets its distinct name from its founders’ passion for skiing and its disdain for the 9-to-5 work day. The two friends got the idea for the company while skiing in the French Alps, trying to avoid getting real jobs, Guay explained. With funds getting tight, they begin printing t-shirts and sweatshirts and selling them to support their skiing. Their favorite black mountain run in Val d’Isère, La Face, inspired the brand name.
Today, FatFace operates more than 200 stores in the UK and 22 in the United States, mostly in New England. The only other Long Island location opened in Southampton last month.
“We like to be in places where people are having fun and in a community we can add to,” Guay said. “We would rather be on Main Street and be part of a community.”
Guay said each FatFace location is operated like a “mom and pop shop” and would host or sponsor community events in the future.
Paige Wiegand, who managers both the Southampton and Greenport locations, said she’s looking forward to getting to know the community.
“We were immediately taken by the natural scenery and were convinced by how warm and welcoming the people are,” the Manorville resident said. “We are proud to become a part of the Greenport community and bring a little FatFace Britishness over.”
FatFace will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
