With dresses, handbags and other accessories, Clover Boutique helps members of the community find their closet’s “lucky charm.”
The high-end boutique, located at 22 W. Nelson St., specializes in women’s clothing, jewelry, handbags, shoes, candles and scarves, while also offering select men’s items such as shirts, shorts, bathing suits, socks and boxers.
“Clover is a place you come when you want to treat yourself,” said owner Melissa Friedman. Her favorite items are the dresses that fill the store’s racks and windows.
Catherine McSwain founded the boutique in March 2021 before selling the business when she relocated to California. Friedman has been the owner since Jan. 1 and has worked to broaden Clover’s reach and expand what the store has to offer.
“Many locals have a misperception that I only carry things for college girls. I have really worked hard to change that and have items for a wider age range,” said Friedman. “I want the locals to come check out what we have in store.”
“Come in and check out Clover, even if you think it’s not your cup of tea or price range,” she said. “Clover does have a variety of price points and clothes. There really is something for everyone.”
The boutique carries brands that are often found in larger markets such as New York City, Chicago and Richmond. Among the brands are LoveShackFancy, Amanda Uprichard, Paige Denim and Joseph Ribkoff.
“No one else in Rockbridge County carries the brands that Clover carries,” Friedman said. “That’s how we differentiate ourselves.”
To appeal to a broader clientele, Clover also offers moderately priced items, said Friedman. Accessories like jewelry, scarves and handbags range from $13 to $150, and clothing ranges from $35 to $425. The store’s clearance racks also offer discounts of 25% to 75%.
Boutique shopping is somewhat rare in Lexington, Friedman said. Many visitors, including parents of college students, love the store for this very reason.
“Our inventory changes constantly,” said Friedman. “You need to come in frequently to make sure you don’t miss any great deals.”
Friedman says running Clover Boutique keeps her busy. Friedman’s days typically begin with coffee, emails and payroll before arriving at the store at 10 a.m. After the doors open at 11 a.m., she checks inventory, cleans, unpacks deliveries and works on seasonal orders.
“I want to make sure everything is ready for the customers,” Friedman said.
Clover also connects with students at Washington and Lee. During the university’s “Get Downtown” event, the store offered 15% discount coupons to the first-years.
Mia Remington, ’28, a sales associate at Clover Boutique, said the store is dedicated to being part of the local community.
“We just want to let everyone know that we are really integrated and committed to being part of the community,” Remington said. “We have a lot of new styles we get on and off our racks through the seasons, and we have some really good sales.”
