Jenkins Quality Goods brings a cool vibe to Durham

Tucked around the corner of Jenkins Court near veteran stores and restaurants such as Thai Smile and Breaking New Grounds is Jenkins Quality Goods, one of the most unique new businesses to open in Durham.

Primarily, what separates Jenkins Quality Goods from neighboring clothing stores is that it is almost entirely a clothing store for men. Owner Doug Palardy said he hopes that Jenkins can become the “go-to clothing store for students, staff and alumni in Durham,” as it carries a range of styles from brands such as Levi’s, Keds and New Balance.

Palardy has brought in various styles from select vintage pieces and retro UNH prints. He said these prints and logos date back to the early 1900s and are still in good condition. 

Inside the shop on Jenkins Court, a customer could discover that the eclectic styles of clothing are wearable and emphasize comfort. Most of the clothing pieces are affordable, with prices ranging from $25 to $50. Palardy aims for this store to provide locals with an appropriate price point, a source of basic goods (that can serve as everyday wear for college students), and a unique group of vintage pieces that can jazz up an otherwise drab wardrobe.

The knick-knacks and accessories sold in the store help set Jenkins Quality Goods apart from the rest of the Durham businesses. From electronic accessories like music branches to custom-made gadgets, one can certainly look forward to having a few laughs when checking out the items the store has to offer.

Before opening Jenkins Quality Goods, Palardy owned a similar store in Boston, known as Motley, and is currently co-managing a business in Portsmouth, which he said has given him the experience and confidence needed to open another store that features eclectic and retro styles.

Besides the vintage clothing and fun accessories, Palardy is trying to incorporate locally made clothing and increase collaborations with UNH organizations. A section of Jenkins is dedicated to graphic tees that feature familiar and humorous sayings and signs. The shirts are custom-made around the Durham and Portsmouth areas. 

 “It’s worth it to shop from and support local retailers because at the end of the day, it’s good to know the money is circulating in the local community and not out of the area,” Palardy said. 

Top five clothing or accessories to check out in Jenkins Quality Goods, according to Doug Palardy:

-Vintage flannels and woven shirts under $16 

-Men’s and women’s retro UNH graphic tees and prints from 1910-1980

-Select Levi’s pieces with specialty fits and washes

-Footwear 

-Locally hand-screened graphic tees