QUINTESSENTIAL AMERICAN
Dr. McGrath's
A few weeks ago a respected PR colleague of mine from my corporate days contacted me about a woman involved with horses that she felt I had to meet because she was the proprietor of a product that was “right up my alley." After conducting a little research, I was unexpectedly intrigued. The product was a conditioning animal shampoo called Dr. McGrath’s and the namesake was one of the first woman pioneers in veterinary medicine.
Soon thereafter, I spoke with the founder, Juliette Fassett, and discovered that she developed the shampoo out of necessity. As an equestrian, groom, and serial entrepreneur, she was bothered by the poor quality of cleaning products she found in her stable’s wash rack. What ensued were research, development and the launch of Dr.McGrath’s Conditioning Animal Shampoo. It is made with plant-based cleansers, apple cider vinegar, lanolin, glycerin, and organic herbal extracts of cucumber, lavender, cornflower and peach and is entirely free from sulfates, DEA, parabens, phalates, fragrances and dyes. Dr. McGrath's is an animal shampoo and thus is intended to be used for your horse AND your dog.
During our conversation, Juliette mentioned that Dr. McGrath’s is available at the Polo Store on 5th Avenue and 55th. PERFECT TIMING. I had plans to be in Manhattan on business the next week.
Mr. Lauren’s “Polo Flagship “
The impressive limestone façade on 5th Avenue, stylish window displays and billowing flags clearly marked that this new addition to Ralph Lauren’s world is, in no doubt, Polo’s Flagship Store. You are transitioned into the “World of Polo” from the moment you enter through what I can best describe as distinctly American décor, youthful clothing and aspirational displays.
I barely made it through the first floor before being captured by a $20,000 custom bicycle that was perfectly merchandised to showcase the craftsmanship created by the artisan. Even more refreshing, upon recognizing my appreciation for the workmanship, the Polo associate pointed out some of the unique details that the craftsman integrated into the design.
On a tight schedule, I was on a mission for Dr. McGrath’s so I traversed up the wooden staircase lined with an eclectic gallery of framed photographs and rustic style lighting. The second floor did not yield pet shampoo, but actually a real pet. I was totally impressed that a Polo employee was happily watching a very sweet dog as the owner/customer shopped the shoe collection.
I detoured left for a quick mocha at “Ralph’s Coffee Shop”. I justified the deviation from my schedule as I was in need of a caffeine recharge. Not to mention, I was practically experiencing history since this is Ralph Lauren’s first coffee shop. The interior was incredibly well thought out to create the “Ralph’s Coffee” brand, the service attentive and gracious and the espresso a perfect blend with unsweetened chocolate. I could have remained much longer just for the people watching, but time was ticking on my busy schedule.
I was beginning to question whether I had written down the correct location for Dr. McGrath’s as this was definitely a fashion heavy store with an immense amount of merchandise showcasing Ralph Lauren’s iconic East meets West styles with a touch of bohemian. I darted up one more flight of stairs and voila! Perfectly merchandised with leather dog collars & accessories and looking right at home with its vintage style packaging was Dr. McGrath’s Pet Conditioning Shampoo. I felt a sense of pride for Juliette, just thinking of what it must feel like to identify a need for a product, develop it and to have it recognized by one of America's most iconic brands.
A few last thoughts . The flagship Polo store is a destination to frequent when on 5th Avenue for many reasons. I definitely felt there was an incredible amount of thought from the creators to ensure that the atmosphere demonstrated a tribute to the American lifestyle & the U.S. artisan. I also appreciated the overriding sense of hospitality and product knowledge provided by the staff. The collection has a youthful and casual vibe, and in classic Ralph Lauren theme, equestrian influences were apparent throughout the store including in the details of accessories, clothing and vintage books available for purchase.
{Dr McGRATH’S INFORMATION}
TO PURCHASE:
POLO FLAGSHIP STORE: 711 Fifth Ave. at 55th St, New York, New York
SHINOLA.com:
Producing high quality, handcrafted products is a collaborative enterprise. That's why we've partnered with a group of extraordinary American manufacturers whose obsession with craftsmanship and quality matches our own. Each of our partners, from Horween Leather to Waterford Precision Cycles, has a long legacy of making products that are beautiful, meaningful, and made to last. (Source: Shinola.com)
For more information, visit DrMcGrath.com
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