Sovereign Soles, new shoe store, opens in Harmonie Park

The Paradise Valley District at Harmonie Park has netted one more retail amenity in Sovereign Soles, a new shoe boutique on E. Grand River. Proprietor Nedra Merriweather holds a job at Chrysler but decided to pursue a dream she has had for a decade. Despite fears about her job and the current market, she made the leap. "Shoes are my passion," she says. "I don't want to wait another 10 years."

Speaking to Merriweather's tastes (fave designer: Christian Louboutin), many of Sovereign's shoes are built for style -- we're talking heels, ladies -- rather than comfort. Labels include Michael Antonio and Gwen Stefani's L.A.M.B. Prices range from $30 to $400. Handbags and a scattering of apparel and accessories can also be found in the shop.

Sovereign Soles is located in the space most recently occupied by GOAT, also a shoe store, but one that focused on sneakers. It is just below Mezzanine and on the same block as DSE @ Grand, Spectacles and Rags -- all in all, quite the burgeoning retail cluster. "There's a lot of foot traffic in this area," says Merriweather. "I'd love to see it become a nice little shopping district -- bring the feel of SoHo to Detroit."

And the name? Credit goes to Merriweather's mom, who has always called out her daughter's tendency to follow her own path. After she read an article about rapper Lady Sovereign, the name stuck.

Sovereign Soles is at 208. E. Grand River. Call 313-964-9100. Hours are Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday noon to 8 p.m. By appointment only Sunday and Monday. Parking is to be had on street, plus the Detroit Opera House garage is nearby.

Source: Nedra Merriweather, Sovereign Soles
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
Photo: Marvin Shaouni