Circles Boutique

For over 25 years, Circles Boutique has remained one of the most unique independently owned women’s clothing boutiques in downtown Champaign. Jameson operates the store with only two other part-time employees, advertising mainly through loyal customers spreading
the word. The boutique has endured dips in the economy, fires, new construction, and other hardships mainly, Danelle Jameson, owner says, “Because we offer a consistent, quality product.”

Relocated to North Neil Street a year ago, Circles’ eclectic atmosphere boasts inspiration from all over the world, which is where many of the clothing heralds. Danelle Jameson has even designed clothes in Bali, a place of great influence to the shop’s decoration. Circles also supports designers and clothing lines from Illinois, adding a local element to the global style and diverse selection customers will find in the store. Jameson finds unique designers and items no other shop carries, like hand sewn handbags from a designer in Milwaukee, to keep the
selection new and innovative.

“Circles brings the art-side of shopping. It’s a creative process—different, not run-of-the-mill,” said Kathryn Coulter, employee of Circles Boutique for over 3 years. The importance of creative design is everywhere in the store, from clothing to display elements in the shop itself.

Coulter, expressed her excitement about the new space, noting that many of the doors and decorative pieces are reused from older buildings in the area. Another green addition to the store is the circular light fixtures; these fixtures were once air ducts from the Orpheum Theatre
before becoming functional art. Circles maintains this sense of functionality through their casual to formal clothing choices, having something for everyone.

Jameson adds, “Many customers have mentioned that shopping in the store is similar to going to a clothing gallery. Everything is designed beautifully and has importance in the space……it is definitely a whole experience.”

Circles Boutique
114 N. Neil St.
359-2195
circlesboutique@gmail.com

Article written by Ayla Ault, Communications Intern