Malcolm Wilson, of Malcolm’s Fashions, a new clothing store at 31 Park St. in Adams, is enjoying success with his business, which offers ‘competitive pricing all day.’ (Gillian Jones/North Adams Transcript)
Wednesday December 5, 2012

ADAMS -- Malcolm Wilson is offering the newest styles of New York City right on Park Street, and, claiming "competitive pricing all day," often greets customers with an invitation to barter.

The Hartford, Conn., native opened his new store, Malcolm's Fashion, at 31 Park St. on Nov. 24, and so far has enjoyed great success, he said during a recent interview.

Wilson said he's frequented the Manhattan merchant area from West 17th to West 36th streets for years and made his connections with the industry there.

"I initially got into this business because so many people always ask me, ‘Where did you get that?' " Wilson said. "I've been into fashion for years and stay ahead of the style curve myself. ... Basically, I'm here to give it a shot."

The store, which Wilson has made up to look like a sleek white corridor stocked with colorful garments, features everything from men's and women's designer dress cloths to winter garments, hats, boots and shoes, from both known companies and those just getting started.

Converse, Levis, Akademiks, Aero postale, Imperius, True Religion, American Eagle, Ed Hardy, Timberland, Champion and many more brands are available at prices competitive with outlets and below those of area malls, Wilson said.

As sole proprietor, Wilson said he can afford to keep prices low thanks to virtually no overhead.

"I think diversity in pricing is definitely a plus," Wilson said.

The

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technique has worked so far. After Wilson made known his first day profits, he said, he began receiving calls from larger urban companies who'd earlier replied to his inquiries coolly. Now, they wanted to deal with him.

Wilson thinks it helps to be the only game in town.

"When you go [online] and look for urban clothing around here, I'm the only one," Wilson said.

The best sellers thus far are $20 hoodies and high quality winter hats that Wilson sells for $5. If all continues to go well, Wilson said, he's open to considering an expansion of his store -- to North Adams or even Vermont.

To reach Phil Demers, email pdemers@thetranscript.com.

The essentials

What: Malcolm's Fashion

Where: 31 Park St., Adams

Offering: Converse, Levis, Akademiks, Aeropostale, Imperius, True Religion, American Eagle, Ed Hardy, Timberland, Champion, among others

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.