One of my favorite stores, Alter’d State, founded in 2012 by Aaron Walters. This type of clothing store is targeted to mothers and daughters looking for fashion forward clothing but also a more conservative look. Not only is it just a clothing store, but they offer jewelry, decorations for homes, and little trinkets. More on the pricier side when it compares to other brands, but the unique thing about them is on Monday’s they donate 10% of the net proceeds to a charity that was picked earlier in the month. Alter’d State sells charity brands in their stores such as The Giving Keys and Toms. How I feel about this brand along with many other customers, yes, we might be paying more for a shirt than one at Target, but some of that money is going to a good cause. In saying that, I find it okay to splurge and treat myself a little more.
Originally, the name was Alter’d State Christian Store. Walters decided to cut that name because he felt as if its limited potential to shopping there with the label “Christian” being in the name. The company hires anyone with different backgrounds and religions because Walters wanted all to feel welcome. With more than 59 stores and in nineteen states, Alter’d State is still expanding. The company does a good job of keeping the idea of it being a Christian store subtle. It’s not the fact that Walters doesn’t want people to know they are a Christians brand, but more of a plus when the customer connects the dots. There are little things that are happening in the store that give the hint that it has a Christian background. For example, KLOVE music is usually playing in the background, they have a prayer request book in the fitting room, and their mission statement is obvious and that is donating money to charity.
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I love Alter’d State. I think it’s a great example of a store that really gives you an experience from the minute you walk in. The cashiers always extremely friendly and helpful. I didn’t realize that he used to have “Christian” in the name of the store. His thought process makes sense though. Thanks for sharing!
Hey Faith, great article! I definitely appreciate people designing more modest clothing. As a freakishly tall person, normal clothes always look 4 inches shorter than they should on me so I appreciate people designing more modest clothing so that I don’t inadvertently flash people. My one suggestion would be to add categories at the bottom like fashion, women, female entr… etc.
Alter’d State is one of my favorite stores. I knew it was a Christian company but didn’t know that they gave to charity. I love how they give off such a welcoming atmosphere in their stores. Enjoyed learning more. Great article!
Even though I’m a guy, I must say I do like this business. It was the only place I shopped at for my girlfriend. I wasn’t aware that they used to have the word “Christian” in their name. It must’ve been a hard decision to remove it because he might’ve felt like he was ashamed of God and Christianity. I think it’s smart because a business that gets His name out in a smaller way is better than a business that tries to get it out in a bigger way but can’t rake in money to do that. Also didn’t know it was started by a man! Great company.