I got a confirmation today that American Apparel is closing. I was at the store today and noticed the Southern Real Estate “Space Available” sign in the window. I asked an employee and she said yes, the store was definitely closing. They are stuck in a lease and are just waiting for a new tenant to take it over or for their lease to run out, then AA will be out. Apparently the owner prefers mall spaces because of more traffic. Strangely enough, the store was very busy when I was there today. Probably 20 people inside shopping. I just hope it doesn’t turn into offices or another frickin’ salon. There are already like 20 salons in South End. Crossing my fingers for some decent retail to take its place.
On another disconcerting note, I was at Dharma last night with a group of about 10 people from around midnight until 1. We accounted for about 75% of the crowd there, which was sad. I doubt this place will last. Hopefully some of the new residents will bring in some more business. Dharma’s not a bad spot IMO, but I think South End could use more dives and arsty bars…not really the upscale trendy nightclub type of neighborhood.