By Kate E Schultz-
The boutique GI Threads is a newer addition to Ellicottville’s Washington Street, and is the modern female shopper’s dream. Owned by Gabby Iuculano, GI Threads’ Ellicottville location (there is also a location in Bemus Point) landed the storefront at the corner of Washington & Monroe Streets in October 2021. The Ellicottville space is cozy and designed in a monochromatic color scheme, which lends a visually cohesive, almost spa-like feel. Iulculano, with the help of her family, designed the space without the help of an outside source – “I had a vision from day one and decided to follow it. The main goal was to create an environment that was fun, comfortable, and trendy.” Iulculano’s decision to follow her vision was clearly a wise one. Anyone walking into the store, whether for the first time or the fiftieth, will feel instantly transported into a place of style and comfort.
The wide selection of merchandise includes women’s clothing, like chunky sweaters; trendy denim; workout and yoga wear; and footwear. Clothing and footwear brands include Free People, Alo Yoga, Daydreamer, Dolce Vita, and more. In addition to clothing, shoppers can also find plenty of gifts – for themselves and others! With the holiday season approaching, GI Threads is stocked with holiday-themed hooked wool pillows, Thymes-brand’s beloved Frasier Fir-scented candles, and delightful gifts for women and teens. Vinyl stickers, astrology card packs, and pom-pom hats – to name just a few – make wonderful stocking stuffers. For the local-minded gal, GI Threads offers Ellicottville and Buffalo-themed merchandise. And while many of us feel that a greeting card is just an optional accompaniment to a gift, GI Threads’ Margot Elena TokyoMilk-brand card selection will change that – the cards are classy yet whimsical, with charming understated illustrations that include a dusting of glitter accents and brief yet meaningful messages in traditional typewriter-style typeface.
One local resident who formerly lived in Boston, Massachusetts, said that GI Threads seems like the type of boutique you could find in the big city. Another shopper describes her GI Threads experience: “I feel like everything here is special. I could tell that items were picked and showcased with care. I must have done 12 laps around the store and still kept going, ‘Ooh, look at this!’ even on my 12th lap.”
Even GI Threads’ dressing room, with greenery and aroma difuser, feels luxurious. Just outside the room, shoppers can find a selection of products for dogs and kids. And just when they’re heading to the register to check out, they’ll notice that there’s even more to browse – jewelry on a table in front of the register, a colorful selection of vinyl stickers on a rotating display, beauty products, and more.
GI Threads is truly not a spot to be missed for women who delight in the small pleasures that bring a smile, and a bit of luxury, to each day. Visit the Ellicottville location at 29 Washington Street, 11-5 Tuesday through Sunday.