Atomic Number Ten bringing vintage style to Main Street

When it opens September 25, Atomic Number Ten will offer vintage clothing, accessories, housewares, and some furniture at their space on Main Street in Over-the-Rhine.  A grand opening will coincide with Final Friday activities.  The store's design focus is on vintage styles from the 1950's through the 1980's.

Owner Katie Garber says the 1,100 square-foot store will have two part-time employees in addition to herself and offer a unique mixture of shopping and areas where visitors can "sit back and take a break."

"The overall atmosphere has been created by a balance of dark gray walls with pops of bright colors and a slight play on the name Atomic Number Ten, referencing a chemistry theme," says Garber - Atomic Number Ten refers to neon on the periodic table of elements.  “Atomic is also a reference to Eames Era vintage items from the 50’s and pairing this with the craze of neon colors from the 80’s, creates a brand focusing on a 'newer' type of vintage styles."

In deciding where to open Atomic, Garber perceived a definite need for its unique but affordable approach to the vintage clothing market.

"Growing up in Cincinnati I’ve been scouring the local thrift stores and antique markets in search of one of a kind fashions.  After exploring vintage clothing stores in San Francisco and New York City, I became disappointed that Cincinnati did not have many stores that offered affordable, everyday vintage items.  So I decided to open Atomic Number Ten, to appeal to people looking for unique, fun styles at affordable prices," says Garber.

The business move was made possible through a matching grant offered by the Over-the-Rhine Chamber of Commerce which Garber says was extremely helpful for a first-time entrepreneur like herself.

But it was more than just the grant money that brought Garber's vintage style to Main Street.  Garber notes that after growing up in Cincinnati she gained an appreciation for the city's history and particularly that of Over-the-Rhine.

"With the commerce that has already grown on Vine, I figured Main would be a great next step, plus I found a great space in the recently renovated Good Fellow’s Hall," says Garber, who signed a three year lease on the Main Street space.  "I am so excited to open the store in Over-the-Rhine."

Products within the store will range from $8-$32 for clothing, accessories from $4-$12, housewares from $2-24, and furniture will vary by type.  Atomic Number Ten, located at 1306 Main Street, will be open Monday through Saturday 11am to 7pm, Sunday 12pm to 6pm, and will be closed on Tuesdays.

Writer: Randy A. Simes
Photography by Scott Beseler
Stay connected and follow Randy on Twitter @SoapboxRandy