The Fashion-forward ANT/DOTE

ANT/DOTE, a multi-brand boutique for women and men, founded by the noted art patron and fashion aficionado, Lauren Amos, announces its debut in September 2021. More than a store, ANT/DOTE aims to broaden the conversation around fashion in order to see it more as a cultural exchange rather than mere commodity—hence the name ANT/DOTE.

Amos, an Atlanta native and founder of Wish Atlanta Boutique in Atlanta’s Little Five Points, offers an insightful, carefully selected assortment that includes brands not widely distributed anywhere else in Atlanta or the Southeast. Visionary brands like Mugler, Paco Rabanne, Y/Project and Thom Browne join emerging, forward-thinking brands like Marine Serre and Craig Green.

She is joined by partner and director Eugene Rabkin, noted fashion journalist and founder of fashion and culture magazine StyleZeitgeist. Rabkin is internationally recognized for his intelligent and analytical contributions to thought-provoking publications such as the Business of Fashion, 032c and Highsnobiety, among others.

ANT/DOTE is the exclusive Atlanta stockist of many brands, including but not limited to Marine Serre, Mugler, Undercover, Act No. 1 and Hyke. Jewelry includes a selection from Werkstatt München, Bibi Van der Velden, Alice Waese, Charlotte Chesnais, Hoorsenbruh and Fernando Jorge. Fragrances from brands such as Francis Kurkdjian, Frederic Malle and Perfumer H are also on offer, as well as a comprehensive collection of grooming products by Aesop. Visitors can expect eyewear by Kuboraum, Rigards — also exclusive to ANT/DOTE — and Dita. The shop will carry home offerings from Rick Owens and Michaël Verheyden, bookended by candles and home fragrances from Cire Trudon and Mad et Len.

“We are offering a discerning brand and product mix to present a unique and uncompromising aesthetic universe that we have honed over the years of being immersed in fashion,” says Amos.

Three guiding principles drive ANT/DOTE. The first, “One must be absolutely modern,” is a quote by the French poet Arthur Rimbaud, and serves as a reminder for culture to move itself forward. The second is, “For fashion fans, by fashion fans.” Both Amos and Rabkin are ardent supporters of the idea of fashion as a cultural discipline and enthusiastic champions of cutting-edge brands. The third principle of ANT/DOTE is “Quality in everything,” which speaks to the duo’s dedication to be intentional, directional and well-studied in their pursuit of an experience like no other. ANT/DOTE’s physical home is Atlanta, which fits into the direction in which the city is moving--quickly gaining recognition as one of the cultural and creative capitals of America.

Joining Amos and Rabkin are buyer and creative director Karlo Steel, an industry stalwart who has worked with brands such as Rick Owens, Amiri and Willy Chavarria. Rounding out the leadership team is store manager Jake Walton, who is well-versed in luxury, having worked for Jeffrey, Prada and Christian Dior.

To support Atlanta’s thirst for forward-thinking fashion, both a modern, custom-designed physical space and a state-of-the-art website will allow customers to be fully immersed in ANT/DOTE’s world. American architect Chris Benfield designed the building and has previously designed North American shops for Dior Homme, Rick Owens and Balenciaga.

The boutique will feature a statement making monochromatic facade. Inside, terrazzo floors and pale white walls provide a juxtaposition between the interior and the clothing, creating a distinctive space for visitors to explore. A lower-level accessories room, flanked by a VIP lounge, will feature fluid curves and a natural color palette.

Marble fixtures complement a white, black and rich plum color scheme throughout. The physical location is supported by an online experience designed by Florian Schmitt and Rachel Hunt, formerly of the industry-acclaimed London design agency Hi-ReS!. Built by Fictive Kin, storytelling is front and center on the site, presenting clothing and accessories alongside complementary content.

Until ANT/DOTE’s permanent home is set up in West Midtown later this year, customers can whet their fashion appetite at a gallery-like preview space at 453 Moreland Avenue NE, in Little Five Points beginning in September. The store will operate Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. by appointment and online 24/7 at antidotestyle.com.

FASHIONADO