This Spring Good Is Straying From Trends, Going for Timeless

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Even though cold temps are still lingering, Spring is undeniably approaching. Soon we'll be trading in our down jackets for lightweight layers and our corduroys for cutoffs. The best part of it all? Spring shopping. In preparation we're asking the buyers from our favorite spots to shed some light on the upcoming season. Today we're talking to the team at Good.—Justin Reis

What are you most excited to be getting in for Spring?
Paul Niski, Owner and Buyer: A number of small capsule collections created by our designers exclusively for good. A new furniture collection by Aellon that is ecologically minded and beautiful, and some handmade pottery from Vermont by Zoe Zilion and a return of one-of-a-kind antique and vintage items.
Kate M. Brizius, Co-Owner: I'm super excited about our Spring home collection.  Lux pillows by Dansfield & Ross, a portable outdoor beach grill made in Italy from Bella Cucina.  Perfect for entertaining guests on Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket.  Lastly, throw beds by Hedgehouse.  Portable and versatile for the beach or roof top decks! 
Kate Baillie, Manager: I love the return of warm weather and with it collections that have an easy sense of glamour like: studded bags from Calleen Cordero, ombre diamonds by Dana Kellin or oh-so-soft cashmere scarves from Grisal which are the perfect cozy companion for weekend getaways.

What trends can we expect to see on your shelves and racks?
PN: Artisanal and handmade.
KMB: Beautiful thoughtful objects.  
KB: Our modern take on New England's nautical heritage—think rope details, shimmering shades of sandy metallics and ocean inspired blues in jewelry, accessories, etc.

Do you have a strategy when you do your buying or attend the shows?
PN: Stay away from trends, look for items that are timeless, beautiful, and functional.
KMB: Buy when your gut says "YES!"
KB: Always think about the customer—will they be excited? Does it offer something new to their collection? And would we buy it ourselves?

What's the trick for tailoring trends with gutsy gravitas for the Boston market?
PN: Price range (something for students and Brahmins) and sharing information of why we chose our seasonal picks.
KMB: We consider items that have value and are well made.  Bostonians like things with longevity.  
KB: Creating a well-edited selection—sometimes having too much of a good thing is truly too much.

If you had an unlimited budget, what would your store be full of?
PN: George Nakashima furniture, early American and Georgian sterling silver, and Henry Bertoia Sculptures.
KMB: Eclectic finds from my world travels.
KB: A collection of vintage clothing and antique engagement rings—I'm so inspired by costume history!

What three words sum up your buying philosophy?
PN: Artisan, handmade, and unique
KMB: Quality, thoughtful, homey 
KB: Handcrafted, detailed, individual

Any totally impractical trends that you wish you could bring to Boston?
PN: Bespoke clothing, customer fragrances, and fluorescent/Day-Glo sneakers!
KMB: More trends in general.  Bostonians are very safe dressers! 
KB: Embracing the unknown—there are so many great designs to be discovered!

· All Spring Buying Report posts [Racked Boston]
· 38 Essential Boston Shopping Experiences, Winter 2013 [Racked Boston]