New fashion venues making their mark on the Garden State

by Jessica Jones Gorman

“PRE LOVED” PARADISE
The Couture Exchange in Shrewsbury is the brainchild of owner Jennifer Maddalena. “The concept came to me because I have a small handbag and shoe addiction, and never use even half of what I have,” she explained. So, the boutique focuses primarily on retailing what the proprietor affectionately refers to as “preloved” designer accessories such as handbags, shoes, sunglasses, belts, and other items.

Shoppers can purchase at 20% to 80% off retail price, and are able to choose from the likes of Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and other famed houses. Some items are new or never worn, others gently used, and then there are, Maddalena enthused, “fabulous vintage classics,” but all items go through a screening process to ensure authenticity (backed by a guarantee policy).

Shoppers can even create a “wish list” in which they detail wanted items; if the Boutique happens to get them in, they will give that shopper first priority. 691 Broad Street, Shrewsbury, thecoutureexchange.com

Asbury lanes get a makeover
Opened in the 1960s as an 18 lane bowling venue, Asbury Lanes gradually morphed into a popular concert venue and hipster gathering spot. But after years of neglect, the iconic social club was forced to shutter in 2015 for renovations. After a few years of major construction, the alley relaunched this past May.

In the newly renovated space, the venue’s original capacity of 300 has more than doubled, and fresh features include a diner located inside the building and a custom built pin setting system. The building’s famous bowling pin sign was restored and reinstalled and, in an effort to capitalize on Asbury Park’s ongoing revitalization, the alley now includes a “secret passage” between the business and The Asbury Hotel, which was also recently revamped by iStar development.

Bruce Springsteen, who pretty much single handedly placed Asbury Park on the map, performed at Asbury Lanes’ grand opening on Memorial Day weekend. You can view the venue’s entertainment lineup online at asburylanes.com.

BETTING ON STYLE
When Ocean Resort Casino celebrated its grand opening on June 28, several new fashion retailers were also launched on the Atlantic City strip. Featuring 70,000 square feet of retail space, the new casino, formerly known as Revel, now offers a wide variety of clothing, jewellery and gift buying experiences, plus a Top golf Swing Suite, featuring 11 bays and a first of its kind virtual putting green.

“Our focus and vision for the new Ocean Resort Casino is centered on guests’ desires,” said Casino President Frank Ruocco. “We want to make sure that same philosophy is carried over into all aspects of the resort, including dining, retail, and entertainment. With the partnerships we have developed on the retail side, we hope guests will feel that there is something for everyone, and that we offer all the services they could ever want.”

Clothing options will range from celebrity branded fashion and accessories from Alicia DiMichele to casual and beach apparel from Flying Point Surf Shop. A variety of workout styles are offered at the Exhale Spa retail boutique, and women’s fashion, handbags, shoes, and jewellery will be available at Renée. Meanwhile, O∙Man, a gentleman’s lifestyle destination, features leading men’s brands like Hugo Boss, Tommy Bahama and Under Armour. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, theoceanac.com