It’s finally here. Last Friday, October 23^rd, a new boutique hit State Street. Citizens of Ann Arbor, welcome Pitaya to your hometown clothing store repertoire.

Owner Michael Mazor filled SHEI in on some of the history behind Pitaya and why he decided to open up shop here in Ann Arbor. The business started out in Bloomington, Indiana in 1990 and today has several locations.  “Ann Arbor fits the mold of what we are trying to do. We are trying to expand the business in places we think we will be well-received.”  As it happens, this Pitaya is number 16.

Mazor is really excited to finally be a part of Ann Arbor who notes that Pitaya is the ideal shop for “liveable” cities and towns. Being located within the University of Michigan campus is definitely a plus. “When you’re next to a campus you have a built-in customer.” I must say, I can’t wait to be one of those customers!

Pitaya appears to be an expensive boutique like many others on-campus, but in reality, its most expensive item is a $69 pair of jeans. That is certainly not a price to break the bank. And get this – their tees are only $12! “When the economy is weak, people still want nice clothes at an affordable price,” says Mazor, making it perfect for “women who care about looking cute without breaking the bank.”

While the store carries a range of labels, all Pitaya labeled clothing is made in the USA. And the inventory changes significantly every week, so if you see something you absolutely love, don’t hesitate to buy it.

One of the first things I noticed when walking in was that everything in the store is color-coordinated.  This is due in part to Art director, Jon Hines, who helps owner Michael Mazor make sure the aesthetic of the store looks and feels right. He serves as a “second set of hands and eyes” to Michael and helps to form a “certain feel” to each store. Hines loves his job and says the work is “fun and meaningful” at the same time. “We are all doing what we want to do.”

I fell in love with Pitaya from the moment I walked through the doors. I can definitely see why both customers and employees love shopping and working there. If you ever need help finding the perfect outfit, just ask an employee and they will be happy to assist you. According to Mazor, “Pitaya is very shopable and has the best dressing rooms in town!” It prides itself on “excellent service, selection, pricing, and atmosphere.” What’s not to love?

So – check out the latest addition to State Street.  They’re open seven days a week but for more information, you can check out their website or subscribe to their newsletter.

Erica Nicole.