Laura Jean Denim to Change Ownership in 2017

After more than 12 years, Laura Jean Denim will have new ownership beginning on February 1, 2017.

Storeowner and Newport local, Laura Flynn, founded her company in 2005 with the mission of bringing fashionable, comfortable clothing to Newport.

Flynn shared the news with customers and friends via an e-mail on Thursday morning.

“I am happy to announce that the new owner is Nancy Isherwood. Nancy, a Newport resident, currently owns Isherwood & Company, a women’s apparel and jewelry boutique on Bowen’s Wharf. She previously owned and directed Isherwood Gallery on William St., where some of you may remember she hosted the popular Frederick Cushing and Caterine Millinaire solo shows. Her degree and experience in art and design makes her particularly suited for fashion retail”, Flynn said in the e-mail.

Nancy will maintain the Laura Jean Denim name and brands as well as introducing some lines of her own, according to Flynn.

“My decision was a long and hard one, but I am excited to see how Laura Jean Denim will flourish under Nancy’s love and care. I will be assisting Nancy during and after the transition in order to make this as smooth as possible for our customers,” Flynn went on to say in the e-mail.

Gift certificates, store credits and Denim Dollars will be honored after the transition.

“More details will come following the holiday. Of course, a party is also in order, so please stay tuned for more information!,” Flynn concluded in the e-mail.

Update: Isherwood & Company shared a link to this story on Facebook on Thursday, where they also confirmed that Isherwood would be closing at the end of this week.

Laura Jean Denim can be found at 198 Bellevue Avenue and online at www.laurajeandenim.com.