Design of Mine

Design of Mine, an eclectic women’s fashion shop in downtown Newburyport, features clothing from around the world as well as one-of-a-kind repurposed jewelry and repurposed jackets. Designer and founder, Melissa Tarr, personally creates these upcycled pieces as well as handpicks the clothing items from around the globe that make up this unique store.

A visit to Design of Mine is an experience that keeps locals and visitors coming back again and again. Tarr strives to bring positive energy and a welcoming vibe to her storefront—and it shows. Pop in to sip on prosecco while browsing curated pieces and lines from England, Italy, Canada, and more. The variety of clothing and affordable prices make it possible for a grandmother, mother, and daughter to all visit Design of Mine together and find the perfect repurposed jacket, funky flannel, or upcycled jewelry to fit their style and age.

Shoppers can also feel confident that their items are truly unique. Each piece of repurposed jewelry and the repurposed jackets are designed to be one-of-a-kind and have their own personality.  Tarr also makes sure to limit the number of each designer piece she purchases. As Tarr points out, “if you buy a beautiful pink fur from Design of Mine, you should be the only one spotted in Newburyport wearing that statement piece.”

Tarr is also a strong believer in promoting other artists—yet another reason to visit her shop frequently. Design of Mine often collaborates with local artists for special events and shopping experiences. Check the Newburyport.com Events Calendar for Design of Mine upcoming events.

The idea behind Design of Mine all started with Tarr’s love of creating new treasures from old stuff. She began selling repurposed jewelry at street fairs and tradeshows on weekends. She then added her well sought after flutter shawl to the collection, which can still be purchased in her shop today. Tarr continued to grow her business into a full-time gig and finally opened her first brick and mortar shop in Gloucester, Massachusetts—with Newburyport to follow. Her business continues to evolve with additions like the repurposed jacket.

Everyone has a butterfly story—the image of her shop logo—and this is Tarr’s. She took a big risk, leaving a full time job in wholesale to pursue her passion which has morphed into a successful business doing exactly what she was meant to do.