## Stackpole Moore Tryon Reimagines Downtown Hartford Retail Scene
After a lot of thought and planning, Stackpole Moore Tryon, a Connecticut staple, has launched a refreshed retail experience right in downtown Hartford. This isn’t just another move—it feels more like a thoughtful reinvention, aiming to fit what today’s shoppers actually want while still adding some spark to the city’s vibe.
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The new space feels more personal and modern but still tips its hat to the store’s long history. It’s a bold move for a shop that’s been around for ages, and honestly, it’s kind of exciting to see a classic take this kind of leap.
## A Bold New Chapter in Hartford’s Historic District
SMT, a name that’s meant quality and style for generations, now calls 257 Asylum Street home. It’s a pretty prime spot in downtown Hartford.
This isn’t just about a new address. The owners are clearly shifting gears to keep up with a market that never stops changing. When rent climbed and certain sales took a dip at their old Trumbull Street spot, the Morneaults decided to roll with the punches and try something new.
### Preserving Legacy, Embracing Modernity
Walk into their new 1,000-square-foot shop and you’ll spot a cool mix of the old and the new right away. They kept some original touches—like that classic leaded-glass “SMT” transom and shiny oak crown molding—which feel like a little wink to the past.
Now, those vintage details sit alongside deep navy walls and bursts of buttery yellow. There’s even a big flat-screen playing music and concerts, which just makes the place feel alive. It’s a blend that probably shouldn’t work, but it does, and it gives the store a vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
### A Sharper Focus on Upscale Menswear
Stackpole Moore Tryon has doubled down on high-end men’s clothing. They’re not stretching themselves thin anymore, and that lets them really hone their selection—think imported pieces and custom tailoring that actually feels custom.
Since shopping habits have changed, especially post-pandemic, they’ve moved women’s apparel exclusively online. That frees up energy and space to make their menswear offering even stronger, which seems to be what their regulars want. If you’re into quality and a bit of personal attention, this is probably your spot.
#### The Art of Personal Styling and Curated Collections
The Morneaults bring a ton of experience to the table, and they’re clearly all about making shopping feel personal. It’s not just about racks of nice shirts—it’s about helping people find something that actually fits their style.
Their website shows off some of their best picks, like an $800 Marcello sports coat or a $145 Turin Jacquard polo. Sure, those price tags aren’t for everyone, but they do speak to the kind of quality SMT is sticking to. If you’re after something special and a bit exclusive, you’ll probably find it here.
### Reinventing the Downtown Shopping Experience
The revitalization effort poured $135,000 into renovating the new store. There’s a lot of buzz about a possible $100,000 matching grant from a state fund that supports downtown storefronts.
This fund aims to breathe new life into commercial spaces, especially those close to landmarks like PeoplesBank Arena. A new investor, former Bloomfield superintendent James Thompson, has come on board—he brings more than just money, sometimes pitching in with a little extra help.
#### A Vision for the Future, Rooted in Tradition
Ron Morneault, now 81, plans to step back from daily operations, but he’ll still pop in from time to time. Jody Morneault, 67, will lead the day-to-day, joined by store manager Brian Zenobi, and they’re looking to hire another team member.
They’re reopening in a family-owned building where Ron once ran the beloved Tuesday’s shop. That move adds a nice touch of nostalgia to this bold new chapter.
Downtown foot traffic isn’t what it used to be, and the Morneaults know that. Still, they’ve got a good feeling—maybe it’s their focus on quality, their loyal customers, or just a stubborn optimism.
They’re actively trying to draw in a younger crowd, folks searching for something different in the heart of Hartford. If you’re up for it, a day trip from West Hartford, Glastonbury, or even a trek from Stamford or New Haven could be the perfect excuse to check out this refreshed spot.
Here is the source article for this story: Historic CT retailer reopens in new space. It has big hopes as visionaries for ‘future of fashion’
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