Popular Western performance and lifestyle brand Ariat will open its long-awaited fifth U.S. retail store, in the Fort Worth Stockyards' Mule Alley, on Friday, January 21.
Debuting at 128 E. Exchange Ave., the retailer will throw open its Fort Worth location with a whole weekend of live musical performances from local artists and special perks for the first guests through the door.
“The Fort Worth Stockyards has a rich history of Western culture; it could not have been a better home for our next brand shop,” said Beth Cross, co-founder and CEO of Ariat, in a statement. “As we look to expand our business and serve our customers, we are prioritizing markets, like Fort Worth, in which the heart of Ariat’s community is represented.”
A recent peek inside the 3,500-square-foot space revealed not only a well-lit wall showcasing men’s and women’s performance and fashion boots (don’t miss the adorable Dixon bootie line for ladies), but high-quality apparel, from premium denim jeans and water-resistant vests to concho belts and even high-end house shoes.
There’s also a kids' section with clothing and boots, including mini booties for babies (a great baby shower gift) and toddler boots made to mimic Ariat’s adult styles. (Think cute “matchy-matchy” opportunities for family photos.)
Each Ariat brand store's inventory and design are unique to its location. At the entrance of the Fort Worth store, customers are greeted by a life-size sculpture of a longhorn made from driftwood, a tribute to local bull riders and ropers. The longhorn’s leather details are from Ariat boots, and embellishments include shiny buckles from local donors.
Customers will also find photography of professional athletes prominently on display throughout the store. These highlight Ariat’s partnerships with organizations like Professional Bull Riders and Ariat World Series of Team Roping. The brand strongly touts its support and service to the Western and equestrian world both locally and globally. The city of Fort Worth just announced that the Ariat Texas Rattlers will represent Dallas-Fort Worth in the PBR Team Series, and will call Dickies Arena home.
(Fun fact: The name "Ariat" originates from the great racehorse Secretariat.)
Some boot lines feature tennis shoe technology with gel pads in the heel, ideal for a more comfortable dismount to the ground. The brand has also launched women’s workout pants and tennis shoes, both found in the Fort Worth store. The high-tech pants (like many of Ariat’s jeans) feature a thicker inner thigh lining, making for a seamless transition between hitting the gym and going for a trail ride.
Early last year, Ariat International Inc. established its Fort Worth presence, opening a new 1 million-square-foot regional distribution center at 15201 Blue Mound Rd.
The Ariat brand store will throw three days' worth of grand opening festivities, including live music from artists like Sunny Sweeney, Kaitlin Butts, Jamie Lin Wilson, and Logan Jahnke, 5-7 pm January 21, 1-7 pm January 22, and 2-4 pm January 23.
Customers will receive a limited-edition gift with purchase (while supplies last) and there’ll be daily giveaways of gift cards valued up to $500.
“We are building an unparalleled, one-stop destination for the ultimate Western heritage brands at Mule Alley, and Ariat is the perfect addition to our tenant mix,” said Majestic Realty executive vice president Craig Cavileer in a statement. “Ariat’s Western performance and lifestyle products will add another dimension to the shopping experience at the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards, and we’re excited for them to open."
Customers are greeted by a life-size sculpture of a longhorn made from driftwood.
Corduroy dresses from Jac & Juju.Facebook/Jac & Juju
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The newly refreshed relaxation lounge at Woodhouse Spa.Photo courtesy of Woodhouse Spa