“I’ve always loved fashion,” says Lisa Drouin, the owner of Corner Closet, a boutique clothing, footwear and accessories shop in Cedarburg. Drouin, who has a background in social work, hadn’t planned on owning a clothing store, but when she stopped by Corner Closest in 2016, she was immediately drawn to the charming space and beautiful inventory.
She bought an item, and then returned for another, and soon ended up working there part-time. Dourin says, “I would joke with my husband, saying ‘We should buy the shop,’ and he would say, ‘Yeah, OK, honey.’” But then in 2017, the owner decided to sell and Drouin took the leap, bought the shop, and began transforming it into something completely her own.
“My vision for the store was to have one space for unique pieces,” she says. “It’s a combination of 75% new items and 25% consignment. I try to focus on things that fit all women, at a variety of ages. Our brands are beautiful, a little edgy, but very wearable and fun.”
“I love helping customers feel beautiful and confident in fabulous clothes. ”
— Lisa Drouin, Owner, Corner Closet
Corner Closet is known for stocking brands you likely won’t find in area shops. That includes Magnolia Pearl, a brand favored by celebrities that is sold only in three stores in Wisconsin. “The designs are hand-made, using vintage fabrics and made in limited production,” says Drouin. “It’s got this fun, funky vibe that feels like art.”
Other brands are brought in from the UK, Turkey, Poland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Israel and and other European fashion capitals. But Drouin doesn’t just curate brands from around the world— she supports local women makers and artisans. Artists Jodi Marcus of Vintage Art Creations, Kate Blake and Tara Zimmer all craft one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces for the shop.
Corner Closet has become a must-stop for both locals and visitors from the North Shore, Milwaukee and Chicago looking for a boutique experience that feels fresh. Nestled on one of Cedarburg’s biggest shopping streets, Corner Closet is a great way to start, or end, a day of exploration. “Cedarburg is a wonderful community,” she adds. “It’s a great place to spend the day or a weekend and experience all the unique spots we have here.”
Drouin also sees Corner Closet as an extension of the values she’s developed through her time in social work— a way to help women feel beautiful and confident in fabulous clothes. With a focus on inclusive pricing and sizing, and exceptional, fashionable pieces, Corner Closet’s wares make an impact. “I want the shop to feel sophisticated and wearable, with pieces that make a statement and make the wearer feel incredible in them,” she says. “Clothes should feel magnificent.”
W63 N655 Washington Ave., Cedarburg
262-387-8484
