Brookings offers a wide variety of options when it comes to shopping, but you will find one thing in common – customer service.

Stores in Brookings range from JCPenney – a chain retail store, to Trendz – a local consignment store to Vintage Willows – a local boutique. 

JCPenney was voted the best Brookings clothing store by SDSU students. At JCPenney, they carry private brands as well as chain brands. The most popular brands in the Brookings location are the private brands – Arizona and Decree, according to Connie Cambern, store leader. 

“We have a large amount of college students who shop here, and more are coming every year as they find out that Brookings has a JCPenney,” Cambern said. The store carries both women’s and men’s clothing. 

“We have the friendliest staff to help customers feel welcome in the store,” Cambern said.

There are many other local options for students to get their fashion fix as well.

“I shop mostly at [local] consignment stores such as Trendz and Country Peddler. I also shop at Vintage Willows Boutique,” said junior pharmacy student Nicole Buchele. 

Trendz, voted best consignment store by students, attributed their success to the customer service they offer. 

“We have an incredible staff – the number one goal is to ensure that every customer feels truly wanted and appreciated,” said owner Sara Rowland.

Trendz is a consignment store established in 2005 that allows for clients to recycle their old clothes and toys to get cash or store credit. They are a green business; recycling clothing is a positive thing and good for the environment, Rowland said. Another thing that makes Trendz unique is their local artist boutique that features handmade clothing and jewelry.

The Brookings community allows Trendz to be a destination for young families, and also targets college students. “The downtown location offers a feel of community and family,” Rowland said.

Local boutiques in Brookings include Vintage Willows, Cover to Cover Bookstore and j.Ella couture.

Vintage Willows, Students’ Choice best boutique, is different because they offer a boutique-like setting but bring in adorable merchandise, said owner Kali Goetz. 

“I work hard to find items that are at an affordable price point so that I can give SDSU students a place to shop on their budget,” Goetz said.

Vintage Willows also focuses on their atmosphere to draw in customers.

“We also try to give the store a unique and comfortable atmosphere,” Goetz said.

Brookings offers many choices for customers who are looking to shop locally, shop green or shop at a big-box retail store. 

“I like to shop at these [local] places because I can find clothes that are unique and I am the only one who has it,” Buchele said. “Also it is cheaper to shop at these locations.”