Knox Street’s newest clothing boutique caters to those who crave quality and originality. Read all about the store and take a look inside, after the jump.     Partners Michael Cingrani and Ort Varona debuted their new venture, Original Octane, on September 23^rd. The 1,800 square foot, bungalow-style space on Knox Street stocks men’s and women’s clothing, jewelry, and home accessories.   Varona is a veteran retail entrepreneur, and Dallas shoppers may recall the first incarnation of Octane, located in the West Village back in the early 2000’s. He is also the man behind former Victory Park boutique LFT.  Cingrani, well-versed in the retail game with area experience dating back to high school, is the more hands-on of the pair. You’ll find him in-store most every day.   Both men are passionate about their new boutique, and confident in the location they have selected. They believe that Knox/Henderson shoppers will embrace the concept.    

Vintage-style furnishings and light fixtures decorate the store.

    Setting Original Octane apart from the crowd, first and foremost, is its focus on apparel. On the Knox Street side of I-75, furniture and décor stores dominate the strip. Though clothing can be found across the highway on Henderson Avenue, an emphasis on premium denim and modern, trend-driven labels carves out a special niche for this store in the neighborhood as a whole.    

Zebra blouse by Fifteen-Twenty ($172),

Print blouse by Amanda Uprichard ($195), Tie-dye silk tee by Akiko ($185)  

    Says Varona, “We try to source what we believe is best-in-category.”   This translates to a tempting (if pricey) selection of independent labels, some only available in Dallas at Original Octane. On the women’s side, lines include Amanda Uprichard, Jonano, and Neuw Denim from Australia.  

 

Denim prices range from $150 - $500. 

    Denim, in fact, is a major obsession at Original Octane. Not only does the store carry many premium, as yet under-the-radar brands, but they’ll tailor your pair on site. All staffers are trained to use a “Union Special” industrial finishing machine, which hems to exacting standards.    

 

 At center, a 100% cashmere sport coat by Scott James.

    Also appealing is Original Octane’s men’s department. An equal amount of care and attention is paid to the guys here, and they will enjoy browsing such emerging brands as Field Scout, Scott James, and Descendant of Thieves.   In bottom line terms, Original Octane is all about the details, including a unique, thoughtful selection and attentive customer service. Here’s to Knox Street’s well-dressed new addition.   Original Octane is located at 3120 Knox Street in Dallas. For more information, visit OriginalOctane.com.     (Lead photo, credit Original Octane. Inset photos, credit DFW Style Daily.)