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Welcome to Name Calling, where store owners around the Philadelphia area tell us the inspiration behind their shop's name. Curious to learn the story behind your favorite boutique's name? Nominate them for a feature by sending us an email at philly@racked.com.
Image of Aoki the cat via aokiboutique/Instagram
Influenced by art, literature, and world travel, Alina Alter's styling skills know no bounds, but for the naming of her Rittenhouse Row boutique, Aoki, Alter looked to something of the cuddly and fuzzy variety:
"[Aoki] is actually the name of my cat, who is sort of my muse," says Alter. "Aoki is a Japanese surname that literally means 'blue tree.' I was living in Tokyo when Aoki entered my life, and she's very quirky, adventurous, and sweet, just like the typical Aoki customer! I thought it was a cute and whimsical name that suited the cat and also captures the essence of my store and the brand behind it."
· All Name Calling posts [Racked Philly]
· Aoki [Official Site]
· Philadelphia's 38 Best Independent Boutiques [Racked Philly]