Not Another Brick in the Wall

Brick’s stands out from the crowd with its focus on personalized service and sophistication.

The Shop:
Brick’s, Bradley Fair, 1900 N. Rock Rd., Ste. 116,
316-866-2700. (Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun. 1–5 p.m.)

Atmosphere:
Sophisticated and spacious, with plenty of room and selection for both the tradition-entrenched and contemporary–casual clothes shopper.

Key People:
Russ Gordon, second-generation owner, and his daughter, Genevieve, a recent KU grad who’s managing the store and will probably take over the family business one day. Genevieve traveled abroad after college, then realized what she and her family had back in Wichita was pretty special. “Our clients are our friends,” she says. “It’s a relationship business.”

What You’ll Find:
Brick’s has catered to well-tailored men for almost a century. In the 1970s, the store opened “The Boardroom” section for women in the workplace. Now the store is half women’s fashions, half men’s. One part contemporary, one part traditional, Brick’s customers range from ages 20 to 70, and in women’s fashions, fit sizes 0 to 16. Along the back wall of the ladies’ side comes one of the biggest surprises: rows upon rows of jeans—Seven, and Indigo Palms. Soon, the store plans to carry the Diesel brand both for men and women.

Brick’s defines itself by carrying women’s clothing lines from Europe, such as Germany’s Annette Gortz—flowing, raw fabrics of silks and linens that feel comfy and look interesting (trousers, $399, jacket, $599), and Zanella—a very old Italian company that makes a classic, tailored look for women (jackets, $795—$895, trousers, $325—$395). Then there’s the contemporary favorite Bell blouses from Canada, pleated and embroidered in tunic styles ($190—$450).

Here, the two big names in flirty skirts and dresses are Cynthia Steffe and Besoni (a 1960s look, anticipated to be big this spring and fall). Elasticized Suzi Roher belts can be worn straight across the waist or lower, down on the hips ($195—$550). High-waisted corset-look leather belts are also very popular.

On the men’s side, there’s everything from tees to tuxedos. Best-selling suits include Zegna and Canali, top-line brands from Italy; for dress shirts, it’s Eton. Brick’s most contemporary fashions are David Chu and Etro (two of the hottest lines in America right now).

Next to the front door is an amazing display of Jay Strongwater’s enameled and jeweled picture frames, jewelry and Faberge-like boxes. Brick’s is the only store in Kansas to sell the line, which Russ spotted years ago for its brilliance.

In July, watch for Brick’s to open a shoe store farther north in Bradley Fair, taking up the space vacated by Shoelaces. Look for young, fun, contemporary products, with unfamiliar but very strong designer names. (They’ll either be small or foreign). Brick’s plans to continue carrying shoes in their clothing store, however, so they can keep selling the complete look to customers who expect it.

Wichita Verdict:
Brick’s has come a long way from being the traditional mainstay for Wichita’s best-dressed professionals — though it still holds this title firmly (Esquire magazine recently named the store to its Best of Class list). Clearly, Brick’s move to Bradley Fair two years ago has broadened its identity and clientele. While it still oozes class, Brick’s newer flair is hip and contemporary.

If your wallet is a little lighter than regular prices command, watch for Brick’s two big annual sales events — one in the summer (May/June) and another after the holidays (January/February). You won’t want to miss these great deals from a great Wichita store.