New men's clothing store hopes to help spur development in downtown Port Huron

New men's store ready to change the face of downtown Port Huron.
Following a successful soft opening and then grand opening celebration, the men’s clothing boutique Patrick & James is ready to make its mark on downtown Port Huron.

Co-owners Brian Patrick and Charlie Pruitt, along with operator and manager Eddie Brennan, not only want to sell quality menswear, but contribute to a growing community of businesses in the city’s downtown.

Following a grand opening celebration which featured a 10 percent discount for first responders and members of the military, as well as support for the local chapter of the Michigan Humane Society, the clothiers are now involved in the first-ever boat week fashion show.

"We chose Port Huron because we can see where things are coming back and people are excited about Port Huron. The owners and I wanted to be on the front end of that," says Brennan.

"We’re very interested in spurring downtown redevelopment. Getting involved in the renaissance of downtown is an exciting prospect."

Patrick & James carries a wide variety of clothing, from suits to swimsuits, denim to underwear. It’s a little something for everyone, says Brennan, with a classic yet more updated feel.

The business team performed a deep renovation of their historic building, tearing out walls and drop ceilings to reveal brick walls, layers of wall paper from the passing decades, and original ceiling tiles. It gives the space a New York or Royal Oak vibe, says Brennan. "It’s a lot of interesting textures and character."

Patrick & James is one of a number of downtown businesses participating in Taking It to the Street: Blue Water Fest Fashion Show. The event takes place Friday, July 19, at both 1 and 3 p.m.

Patrick & James is located at 225 Huron Ave. in downtown Port Huron.

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