THE SHOP
Just two miles from uptown Charlotte (local speak for downtown) and tucked away from the sprawl, you’ll find Five One Five on a walkable side street off Providence Road in the charming Eastover neighborhood. The former c. 1930 abode escaped the wrecking ball, and after a full restoration is again standing proud. The contemporary refresh adds a touch of cool yet is still classic. The vibe is relaxed; the mood is upbeat; and the heart and soul of the old place live on.
OUR STORY
Through fashion, Karen Perry and Whitney Whitlock developed a personal bond that led them into business together. Launched in 2016 from Perry’s garage apartment, their initial adventure turned venture after a number of creative collaborations locally and trips to various markets.
Lucking into some key relationships, the duo secured a handful of small-batch creations from lesser-known but uber-talented designers. “For starters, we wanted to see how people would respond to unique, lesser-known lines we were targeting…and frankly to us as operators,” says Whitlock, active in the industry since graduating from the University of Georgia.
The next big plunge was whether or not to go bricks and mortar. As Perry says, “Our startup space, makeshift at best, wasn’t going to suit our locals forever, and we dreamed of a venue that could live up to the lines our favorite designers were creating. Plus, it was a huge priority to offer a warm, inviting, and fun space for clients.”
In 2018, with big-girl commitment and imagination, the aspiring shopkeepers opened the doors and dreams to a cozy boutique at 515 Fenton called “Five One Five”.
The venture continues, and so does the adventure!
KAREN, owner
Roots: Virginia
Alma Mater: Mary Washington College (now University)
Career Stops: Ann Taylor, Washington, D.C.
CLT Landing: 1998
Full Squad: Hubby, four boys, two pups
Perfect Chill Day: Toes in the sand, book in hand, and my peeps out front.
WHITNEY, manager
Roots: Georgia
Alma Mater: University of Georgia
Career Stops: Cabana; Canary, Dallas, TX
CLT Landing: Two trips (2007 & 2015)
Full Squad: Boy, girl, and dawg!
Perfect Chill Day: Sunshine, pool bound, with my bambinos!
ABBEY, associate
Roots: North Carolina
Alma Mater: NC State University
Career Stops: Right here!
CLT Landing: 1998, born and raised!
Full Squad: The rents, twin sister, and our pup Charlie
Perfect Chill Day: Long day under the sun and beach’n it with my besties.
