Harper student-run boutique reopens bigger, more visible site

Studio V is winding down the year in a big way. The professional, student-run boutique at Harper College opened this month in a newly renovated - and far more visible - space on the east side of campus, across from the Building J Theatre.

To celebrate, Studio V will hold a grand reopening event with refreshments and entertainment from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4.

Students in Harper's Fashion Merchandising program operate the boutique, which has a variety of handcrafted items made by Harper students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members. Named Studio V in a nod to the five senses, customers are welcomed by a variety of colors, textures, music, flavors and aromas. The evolving inventory features garments, jewelry, ceramics, paintings, photography, soaps and candles, printed cards and even wedding dresses.

Instructor Tom Tucker said the boutique serves as a teaching lab. Students played an integral role in the relaunch by helping to design the new space, refurbish displays and decide on the placement of merchandise. Studio V closed for several months to accommodate the relocation.

"It's been extremely beneficial for these students to have the opportunity to re-imagine a space from the ground up," said Tucker, who added that the boutique has already seen a spike in both foot traffic and sales.

Regular store hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Credit, debit and checks are accepted. For information, call Studio V at (847) 925-6163 or visit harpercollege.edu.