With a mom who was a costume designer and seamstress, Andrea Jenkins grew up surrounded by fashion.
“Not only did I learn how to sew, but I learned that my passion and knowledge was, in one form or another, in the fashion industry,” recalls the Florida State University graduate, who double-majored in fashion merchandising and finance.
Her husband’s U.S. Navy career required many moves, but Jenkins kept growing and gaining experience from the companies she managed. When the couple arrived on the Coast for the second time in 2016, they pondered how they could serve and get involved in the local community.
“Although I’ve always wanted to have a boutique, I knew I needed to take that idea to the next level,” Jenkins says. “As we were thinking of how to stand out and offer something different, the idea of a ‘hybrid’ boutique evolved.”
Thus, The Threaded Cork was born — Jenkins’s one-of-a-kind store that is a clothing boutique, café and gift shop rolled into one. The downtown Biloxi business offers a large variety of Polish Pottery and other specialty items, ladies’ apparel, accessories, shoes and more. Tucked in the back is a coffee bar serving Illy Italian coffee, the owner notes proudly, which is brewed “the true Italian way.”
“I’d say that all of the products are equally popular, as each piece is hand-picked and different from any other boutique in our area,” she says.
The Threaded Cork is available to host events like bridal showers and meetings, and patrons can set up a gift registry via its website: thethreadedcork.com. This year, Jenkins says the store is looking to enhance and expand its apparel options and offer a larger selection of Corky’s footwear.
“I’m always looking to add more new and exciting products,” she says, “so my best advice is to keep checking back!”
WHAT’S TRENDING?
Jenkins says bold colors, wedge shoes and lace will be big this summer. One example is this floral printed halter top with pleat and lace detail ($28).
HER TOP THREE TREND TIPS:
- Start small. Choose one trend to add to your existing wardrobe.
- Use accessories for a pop of bold color
- Don’t be afraid to experiment.
WANT TO GO?
136 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi
(228) 967-7424
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; closed Sunday
www.thethreadedcork.com
www.facebook.com/thethreadedcork; Instagram: thethreadedcork