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With years of experience behind Kayla Diggins, her jump into opening a storefront for her women’s clothing business, Harper James, has been more than she ever could have dreamed.
“I opened the doors in March 2024 and it has truly been the most amazing experience. While it has only been months, the love and support thus far has made me so excited for the future to come,” said Diggins. “There is so much consideration and care that goes into curating our offerings behind the scenes. The store’s opening has allowed us to carry more lines such as Z Supply and Free People, making shopping these popular brands more accessible to Western Massachusetts. We try to work with other small businesses in the United States for many of our accessories. It is truly one of my favorite parts ofwhat I do, being able to treasure hunt for special pieces and bring them to our clients.”
Harper James caters to a wide range of women seeking high-quality, trendy and classic styles that become wardrobe staples for its customers. Although the online store had a more limited range, the physical store appeals to anyone from students at The Williston Northampton School to Diggins’ own mother. After receiving several requests, Diggins is even looking into carrying a small selection of men’s clothing.
“I work to curate the clothing and accessories we offer to appeal to different generations and body types. Truly a little something for everyone,” said Diggins. “I am beyond grateful for everyone who has supported Harper James and proud that I have been able to create a space one can feel beautiful and confident in. It means the world to me hearing that a piece purchased at Harper James has become someone’s favorite and I hope to be able to offer that experience for many years to come.”
With a focus on customer service, Diggins often goes out of her way to make the shopping experience special, opening on closed days for clients in a pinch or dropping off an order for a special event.
“When designing the store, I wanted to create a space that felt welcoming, yet elevated. It is important for my guests to experience something special where I am always there to welcome you,” explained Diggins. “We make shopping fun and stress free. I love seeing mothers and daughters or groups of friends enjoying their time together. We are so lucky to be a part of that. Nothing is more rewarding than happy patrons.”
Diggins’ childhood interest in fashion brought her to a degree in fashion and retail merchandising at Lasell College. After graduation, Diggins worked her way through the industry, starting at a boutique, and then working in the wholesale aspect of the business, a job that allowed her to represent many different clothing and accessory brands throughout New England. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, Diggins found herself reconsidering what she wanted to accomplish in her career.
“I had always dreamed about owning my own boutique, so in March 2022, I launched Harper James online. It was a day that would change my life,” recalled Diggins. “Up until this point, I had always felt a little behind in my career path, but soon realized everything I had experienced was leading me to the store.”
For the next two years, Diggins operated the store mostly online with some local pop-up shops, but she developed a more permanent presence in the summer of 2023 when Harper James earned its very own spot inside Olivia Pearl, a home décor shop housed at 106 Cottage St.
“When Olivia Pearl unfortunately decided to close it became apparent 106 Cottage St. would be the perfect location,” noted Diggins. “We all know how difficult it can be sometimes to shop for clothing. I work to create a space that feels inclusive and comfortable. I am always happy to help with styling, or maybe suggest a piece you might not have considered. With the opening of the shop, it is the first opportunity I’ve had to really build relationships with customers and now have regulars.”
In addition to clothing choices, Harper James also hosts events to create a sense of community. In the past, the store has seen a floral workshop, a Pilates class and participated in several Cottage Street events. Diggins looks forward to the first holiday season in the new store and hopes to host a holiday toy drive and gift wrapping fundraiser.
“The support thus far has truly blown me away. I would not be here without the help from family, friends and everyone who has gotten to experience the shop,” shared Diggins. “Harper James is a new and evolving brand and we cannot wait to see what is yet to come. I am blessed to have the opportunity to do what I love and plan to be here for many years to come.”
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS AND OFFERINGS, AS WELL AS CLOTHING AND ACCESSORY SELECTIONS, CAN BE FOUND ON THE STORE’S WEBSITE, HARPERJAMESCLOTHING.COM.
HARPER JAMES IS AT 106 COTTAGE ST., EASTHAMPTON, AND IS OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH SUNDAY, 12-5 P.M. AND SATURDAY, 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M.
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