FEATURE: Atticus: Madison's Simple Solution to Style

In Madison the lifestyle is, well, let’s just say unfussy. Rarely is there an occasion to wear a cocktail dress (besides simply desiring to) and jeans are the norm, even at the nicest restaurants. Without the proper guidance, a laid-back lifestyle can easily lead to the abandonment of fashion values. Keeping Madison in check is Kristen Wild’s new shop, Atticus.
The store, situated on Capital Square, at 18 N. Carroll St., is set amidst the scene where its clothes will most likely be worn. The location alone separates it from the pack of ‘sparkly dress’ boutiques and college-centric stores that line State St.
Make sure to keep an eye out for this gem, the simplistic window decor makes the store easy to pass by. Once inside, the raw space exudes a warm sense of industrialism. Exposed ductwork and steel fixtures are paired with whitewashed walls declaring inspiring “fashionisms†and pale wood furnishings garnish the store. A burning candle—from their line of Malin & Goetz apothecary products—wafts across the room and music streams from wall to wall. During my particular visit, Billy Holiday remixes were playing while a cannabis scent calmed the room.
Atticus offers casually chic items from a variety of fresh designers that can easily be mixed and matched into existing wardrobes. Racks and shelves carry whimsical sundresses, high-waisted shorts, flirty blouses, and functional handbags by designers like Charlotte Ronson, Aude and Loeffler Randall. They also have pieces for him, like cotton separates from LnA and denim by Simon Miller, Acne and Pierce.
Atticus definitely has the gear to push laid-back Madison fashion forward, but there is a drawback. The price—ranging from $50-$250—isn’t quite college-town friendly. Though the classic style and quality of each piece will make your purchase worth every penny.
And while the store currently carries mostly casual women’s clothing, Wild has noticed a surge of interest in menswear and intends on expanding her merchandise. In the fall, she plans on amping up sophistication with sweater dresses and men’s dress shirts. New lines she intends on bringing in are Karrigan from Daryl K and Trovata.
In To Kill a Mockingbird Atticus Finch is the moral backbone and as I see it, its namesake will be the backbone to fashion in Madison. From Maycomb to Dane County, welcome to the neighborhood! The top five best sellers of the season are typical of Madison, highlighting comfort and function.

1. LnA’s zipper leggings for $99.00. The legging comes in a variety of colors (though I would stick with the black) and offers a fresh edge to the already played out legging.
2. LnA’s deep V men’s tee at $59.00. This tee is a higher-quality Hanes and available in various colors. It is also offered in women’s styles including the deep V, tank, crewneck and regular V.
3. Simon Miller’s ‘Salvage’ jean in LA wash for $187.00. Originally brought in for men, the slim-legged jean has walked out of the store on more legs of women.
4. Beau Soleil’s ‘Reuse, Recycle, Renew’ canvas bag $46.00. Big enough to fit a day’s groceries or errands while staying chic.
5. Matt & Nat’s ‘Sade’ clutch in white for $132.00. This clutch’s size and versatility makes it perfect for summer days or nights.