Original Thought Required brings fresh street wear style to Cincinnati

Over-the-Rhine's newest neighbor, Original Thought Required (OTR), opened January 29 on Main Street for Final Friday. The street wear boutique is one of the first of its kind in Cincinnati and its owner is excited to be a part of the renaissance taking place in the historic neighborhood.

"I really believe in what 3CDC is doing and I'm really excited to be able to make my dream a reality," said owner James Marable, who also lives in the neighborhood.

After graduating from the University of Cincinnati's College of Business in 2006, Marable started his own t-shirt line, Atypical Sole, and began working in advertising before he decided to take the leap and help grow local street wear culture in Cincinnati.

"It has been growing over the past four or so years now, and a lot of younger people are looking for original style, music and events," said Marable.  "The street wear culture is an edgy look and is typically more fitted and very much about self expression."

The nearly 800 square-foot boutique on Main Street was leased from Cincinnati-based Urban Sites and features exposed brick walls, a glass storefront, and narrow layout which works well with the boutique's design -  Marable said that he was originally attracted to the creativity of the space for his new street wear boutique.

"I wanted to create a space where people could come in with an open mind and be their own person," said Marable.  "I just want people to come and check it out even if they just come down and hang out without even buying anything."

Original Thought Required (map) will be much more than just a street wear boutique - it will eventually include regular events and be representative of the larger street wear culture where people focus on individuality, personal style, and music. Prices at the store will range from $20 to $100 for t-shirts, sweaters, flannel, button-downs, hoodies, sweatshirts, cut and sew pieces, and more.  The store is open Monday through Saturday 12pm to 7pm, and Sunday from 2pm to 6pm.

Writer: Randy A. Simes
Photography by Scott Beseler
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