Spend Locally: Pitaya

Julie Oslund has a few favorite things.

The manager of Pitaya simply loves helping customers find the right top, sweater, dress, shoes, or accessories. She also loves curating merchandise for teens and 20-somethings at the boutique facing E. Grand River Ave in East Lansing’s downtown.

“But when customers ask for advice, that’s one of my very favorite things,” said Oslund. “A lot of girls come here and say they have a birthday or an event coming up. And I get to style them.”

December shoppers to Pitaya will be dazzled by the selection of sparkly holiday outfits. Accessories reign, too, with a phenomenal assortment of belts and bags that complement the store’s fashion-forward aesthetic. An “under $30” display showcases necklaces and jewelry, while footwear suitable for occasional or everyday wear populates the continually refreshed inventory.

“We try to get to know our customers and listen to what they say,” said Oslund. “If you tell us you’d like to see a certain item—say a blazer—then you might see blazers showing up on your next visit. We really cater to our customers and find what they are looking for.”

Oslund prefers shoppers step inside to soak up the boutique ambiance and to get a sense of the selection and quality of Pitaya’s merchandise. All shoppers are required to wear masks, and just eight people are allowed in at a time. Fitting rooms are open and are cleaned and sanitized between use. Customers can also shop online or place phone orders, with shipping and pick-up options available.

“We’d love to see you,” said Oslund. “We get new inventory weekly, so there are always cool things to check out.”

Pitaya offers gift cards, and has extended their returns and exchanges for holiday purchases through January 15. The shop will be open every day in December except Christmas. Check out Pitaya at 213 E. Grand River Ave., on the web at https://pitaya.com, or by calling 517-336-7000.