Judging from the ambience of FICE, a store featuring urban streetware, shoes, sunglasses and art, the answer to that question would be yes.
Partners Laura Hadar, a professional snowboarder, and Corey Bullough, a recreation therapist who works with troubled youth, opened the store on April 4 in the 123-year-old Guthrie Building. Their remodel showcases the building's hardwood floors, high ceilings and exposed heating vents, and makes the boutique feel new and old at the same time.
Their goal was to create a gathering place for what they believe is downtown's growing community of young people who enjoy music and art, along with shopping.
"The younger twentysomething crowd is moving downtown," said Bullough. "The more people move downtown, it will be like Sugar House over the last 10 years. There is more of a community being built."
Hardar was not available for an interview but, in a March 25 story on expn.go.com, the 24-year-old boarder said Salt Lake City lacked the kind of merchandise being sold at the store, which she hopes will support a community "where we celebrate all of our accomplishments." The store's name, she said, comes from the word sacrifice and stands for "For Innocence Creates Evolution."
FICE offers an interesting mix of clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. There are also decorated skateboards, artwork, and designer Oakley sunglasses. Bullough is particularly proud to carry Oakley Frogskins, a teal lens and chrome frame that comes out at the end of the month. FICE is only the third shop in the world being allowed to design Oakley sunglasses.
"It's kind of a big deal," he said.
The store is also the only place in Utah that stocks Alife shoes, brightly colored and mostly leather casual wear.
Two turntables next to the cashier desk are used by DJs who come in to spin tunes, and a stage and courtyard in the back allow intimate concert experiences. FICE also displays the work of local and national artists, and occasionally hosts art show openings accompanied by concerts in the courtyard.
Tom Wharton can be contacted at wharton@ sltrib.com. His phone number is 801-257-8909. Send comments about this story to livingeditor@sltrib.com.
