Poppy Is Closing, But Neighbor And Owner Leslie McKeown Is Staying Put

When neighbor Leslie McKeown opened the clothing store Poppy (217 5th Avenue, between President and Union Streets) three years ago, her focus was creating a store that would fit the needs of the neighborhood. However, she has decided to close Poppy’s doors.

“When I was thinking about opening the store here and wondering what the customer was going to be like, I was really stalking everybody, walking down the streets,” Leslie said when we first spoke with her in 2012.

“Everyone still wants to have style, but maybe it’s a style modified to working a 9-to-5 job, and having kids, and not really socializing in the same way, probably going to dinner parties more than clubs. We have some really cool people out there.”

Over the three years she has owned the store, McKeown has gained a following of dedicated neighbors and customers.

So why close a store that is so successful?

“I want to end on a high note,” answers McKeown. “I’ve been giving it my all. I’ve decided to leave retail — it can be tough.”

McKeown closed her Manhattan store in 2013, so her focus has been on the Park Slope store for some time.

So will she be heading away from the neighborhood?

“I’m not going anywhere,” she said. “I’m going to focus on being a mom, and stay right here.” McKeown has been a resident for over eight years.

McKeown has been touched by the outpouring of well-wishers. “I have been amazed by the clientele. People have been coming in here to personally thank me,” she says. “I’ve seen people walk by and see the closing sign, stop, and literally gasp. It’s been touching to me personally that I was so valued and welcomed.”

Poppy’s official closing date is Wednesday, September 30. McKeown is unaware of what will take Poppy’s place. “I only know that no one has come here to view it. It’s tough out there.”

The 900-square-foot space is available for $6,000 per month beginning October 1.

Right now, McKeown is in packing mode. “My mom came to help close the store,” she explains. “She’s from Canada — and you know what people can say about New Yorkers. She’s been amazed how lovely everyone was. It’s a reflection of our community.”