Do Good Co. Returns with Fresh Look and Style After Brief Pause

By Kevin Collison

Do Good Co. has reopened following a makeover guided by its new manager and if you’re in the market for a lightly-used Christian Dior or Chanel garment, it’s the “vintage sustainable boutique” for you.

The shop at 413 E. 18th St. in the East Crossroads was opened a couple years ago by Janet Curran after being on 39th Street for several years, but took a hiatus at the beginning of the year for a reinterpretation.

“Janet took a break in January and February and asked me to consult for her,” said Chris Garrett, the boutique manager. “My first thing is I can’t sell Chanel and high end brands unless it looks right.”

Garrett helped revamp the shop to make it more inviting and comfortable–he’s particularly proud of the entrance doors repainted vibrant lime green–and Do Good reopened under his stewardship the first week in March.

The Do Good interior is tastefully laid out with lots of natural light. (Photo courtesy Willym Brown|Photographer)

The shop’s unique non-profit status remains. Sales help raise money for children and animal causes, and its a distinctive attraction to a burgeoning district dominated by microbreweries, bars and restaurants.

The stylish exterior resembles the kind of charming storefronts common to Paris and other European cities, and the interior is tastefully laid out with clothing and accessories naturally lit by big, industrial windows.

The back of the shop has a garage door that opens onto the Grinders KC outdoor concert venue. Big Persian rugs brighten the concrete floor.

Garrett said part of the reboot involved stepping up the retail game at Do Good. He has  experience working at the Churchill’s lifestyle boutique in Crestwood and later the Fairway shops.

The Do Good philosophy: “Shop sustainable goods. Help children, animals and our Earth (Photo courtesy Willym Brown|Photographer)

The inventory includes vintage fabrics and garments and apparel from designers such as St. John’s, Diane Von Furstenberg, Pierre Cardin, Christian Dior and Ralph Lauren.

“We do take donations and it all goes to charities, but everything has to be curated and vetted before it goes in the store,” he said.

Do Good also has a gender neutral approach to fashion with clothing designed for both women and men sharing the racks.

And prices?

“You can get a garment for $25 or come in a shop for something $2,000,” Garrett said.

The boutique has attracted customers from a wide range including regional cities such as Omaha and Des Moines, Johnson County and nearby apartment residents.

“We’ve been here a month and we’re making great goals,” he said. “I’m excited about it.”

Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

The Do Good Co. entrance was repainted vibrant lime green to signal the new revamp inside.