Before American Apparel vacated their spot in the Short North, the owners at Chicago retail store Madison — USA were eyeing the location for their break into the Columbus market. They made a popup appearance in May, a two-day introduction bringing a little Chicago to Columbus, and revealing the local market’s possibilities to the Chicago entrepreneurs. Four months later, the sign on their door at 1219 N. High St. announces a permanent opening at the end of the month.
“All three of us are from Chicago, and having Ohio ties, Columbus ties, we kind of want to inject a little bit of Chicago, New York, LA, some of that feel — bring it to Columbus,” said Jarrel Tolbert, Madison — USA owner.
The store features a balance of products, from sneakers, menswear and streetwear to publications and lifestyle goods “from all sides of the world.” Tolbert said that while they’ll certainly offer more mainline brands, Madison — USA also seeks to serve niche interests, stocking their shelves with items “you don’t always see everywhere.”
Named for the Chicago street that Tolbert grew up on, and with an inventory depending on his various inspirations in sports, art and “cultures ranging from Chicago to Italy,” Madison — USA aims to offer a unique and constantly changing shopping experience.
A dozen different brands are listed on the Madison — USA website, including Death to Tennis, Carhartt WIP, Levis Vintage, Head of State and Sneaker Freaker, among others.
Madison — USA will celebrate its grand opening on Friday, September 29. It’ll be open daily, from noon until 8 p.m.
For more information, visit madison-usa.com.