Business & Tech

Elitress Offers Hair Extensions, Wigs and More

Notice that zebra on the sidewalk on Gansett Avenue? It's a prop to drive traffic to Elitress, a new store specializing in color contacts, human hair, synthetics, wigs, extensions, accessories and more.

Did you notice that large stuffed zebra on the sidewalk across from the on Gansett Avenue? 

If you did, the plan worked.

In an effort to attract business to their new shop, the folks at Elitress put out the zebra to let the public know they're there and in business.

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Elitress is the place to go for hair extensions, wigs, accessories, some jewelry, color contacts and other products that will make you look like a million bucks.

Best of all, said store manager Adonis Seals, the prices are very affordable. Real human hair for extensions can be had for under $50. Synthetic can cost even less. That's because the store's owner has business connections around the world and can get exclusive prices, Seals said. And if you need it, the store offers layaway plans for people on a budget.

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"We'll put them in for you or just sell them as-is if you're going to do it yourself," Seals said.

The store isn't a bona-fide salon, which means they don't use chemicals or other techniques that can cost a pretty penny. Besides, most people want clip-on extensions, which make it easy to change looks and preserve natural hair. 

"You get the best of both worlds," Seals said. "You can have the extensions, take them off, have the look you want and keep your natural hair too."

The store held a ribbon cutting last week. Foot traffic has been slow at first, Seals said, partly because Gansett Avenue doesn't have a lot of pedestrian traffic. Those who have dropped in have been pleasantly surprised at what they've found.

"A lot of people have said they're so happy that we're here."

And the zebra has a lot to do with it. Though, sometimes, it seems Elitress should start selling zebras.

"So many people have asked us to sell them the zebra," Seals said. "As a joke I've given them an exorbitant price, and they're like 'OK.'"

For the record, the zebra is not for sale. As long as it keeps catching people's attention, it will stay right where it is on the sidewalk.

For more information, stop by the store at 154 Gansett Avenue or call 215-8277.

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