Designer sneakers rule at new University Place boutique

9.11.2009

A new University Place retailer is targeting both teens and the fashion-savvy inner teen who lingers in the hearts of many adults.
Velocity Sneaker Boutique offers “unique urban footwear for style connoisseurs,” says its website.
"We're not going after just 14- to 22-year-olds," says owner Darryl Hines. "We're going after them and 23- to 44-year-olds. That's why I spent time to make the shop aesthetically pleasing to someone with more mature tastes."
Hines opened Velocity this summer at the Shoppes at University Place. Sneakers make up 70 percent of the store's merchandise. But these aren't just any sneakers. These are designer shoes, limited-edition designs by major labels, and Velocity's own store brand.
For example, one current hot seller is a designer version of the '50s classic Center Hi sneaker by P.F. Flyers. Velocity has sold out of the shoe - twice. "It's a combination of woven, leather and rubber and a color combination that make it a very unique shoe," Hines says.
The people who covet such sneakers are, well, like Hines, who previously worked in banking.
"I had a person this morning who was around my age, around 40, and we helped birth Hip Hop," Hines said. "Now we have families and corporate positions but on weekends you don't want to wear khakis and loafers; you want to wear something more casual."
Velocity also carries apparel and accessories, including Casio G-Shock digital watches, New Era baseball caps and T-shirts that can be customized to match the sneakers.

WANT TO SHOP?
Velocity is at 8925 J.M. Keynes Blvd., Suite 3, in the Shoppes at University Place. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays. 704-549-8853
Learn more about Velocity at www.velocitystyle.com and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Velocity-Sneaker-Boutique/107375603504


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