JC's Closet Rocks the Tween Scene

It was a busy, buzzing Saturday afternoon at JC’s Closet, South Orange’s newest and hippest kids clothing store.

Joanne Watkins, who runs the shop with fellow South Orange resident Kimberly Minor, greeted customers, helped choose gifts and dispensed fashion and jewelry advice. 

“The word of mouth has been tremendous,” said Watkins, who looked crisp and stylish in a fitted green blazer.  “Customers are saying how happy they are to have a place to buy interesting kids clothing – without having to go to a mall.”

The store is filled with a terrific selection of clothes for style-conscious boys and girls, including T-shirts, pants, skirts, hoodies, sweaters, and gorgeous party dresses (perfect for bar and bat mizvahs).

My 8-year-old daughter definitely approved.  She tried on a boatload of clothes (see photos) while I browsed the well-curated collection of women's jewelry and handbags.

“I only buy one of each piece, so women who shop here know they are getting something they won’t see on everyone else,” said Watkins.

JC's is perfect for unique and affordable gifts.  I picked up a fun Chalkboard T-shirt ($28) for a birthday present, which Watkins said were “flying off the shelves.”  Other choices include cupcake-shaped bath salts, friendship bracelets, hair feathers and much more.

On Saturday, Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m the store will celebrate its Grand Opening.

A “Style Squad” of tweens modeling the shop’s merchandise will distribute coupons in downtown Maplewood, Millburn, Livingston and South Orange that afternoon.  At the store, kids can get temporary tatoos from 12 - 2 p.m. and mini manis (featuring Ginger + Liz Non-Toxic nail colors) from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

The shop is located at 19 Scotland Rd., next to Sparkhouse Kids.  Hours: Wed., Fri. and Sat., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  For more information, call 973-255-7277 or visit their Facebook page.