“As if!” The notable quote was canonized by Cher HOrowitz, played by Alicia Silverstone, in one of fashion's most iconic cult films, Clueless. The same saying can be found in a neon pink light in front of a collage overflowing with '90s pop culture references at Pell 1990, The Woodlands’ latest boutique. Long-time Houstonian and new business owner Courtney Pell-Wilkerson, takes a nostalgic era and shifts it in her modernized take. 

“I was born in 1990 and I think that the nineties were such a great time, it's kind of like the golden age of fashion,” Pell-Wilkerson expressed to Houstonia. “Playing up on the nineties theme is a nostalgic feel, and I love feeling nostalgia from looking at memories to remembering the good ‘ole days.”

The family-run boutique, thoughtfully named after Pell-Wilkerson’s maiden name, is a revival of arguably one of fashion’s most prominent ages. From denim jackets and leather pants to graphic tees and mom jeans, shoppers can easily curate a look from the golden age. 

Each section of the store is deliberately color coded for a functional browsing experience, and offers a mix of labels. Ulla Johnson, Agolde, Rhode and local apparel from Forth & Nomad are among the featured brands, along with a bountiful array of tops, bottoms, jackets, dresses and skirts.  

“I didn't want people to come in here and be like, ‘Okay, I don't know how to wear this.’ It's just easy, simple, classic pieces that will last in your closet,” explains Pell-Wilkerson. “When you come in here, I want my shoppers to find a buildable piece such as throwing on a cute dress and some stilettos and it's done. I just wanted to make sure that everybody's feeling good when they walk out the door.” 

Pell 1990 will also offer footwear, accessories and a rainbow of Paddywax’s Enneagram candles from Sable Candle Company, which will soon have an added scannable Enneagram test that will optimize selections based on your personality type. 

Near the cash wrap sits an aligned display of artwork, particularly a custom piece specially made for Pell-Wilkerson by artist, Josh Young. Red paint that reads “23 March 1990 New York” is painted over a flamingo pink background, which happened to be a coincidental nod to another classic '90s film.

“(Young) asked me what we should do and he suggested we do my birthday. Later I found out it’s also the premiere date of Pretty Woman,” Pell-Wilkerson reveals. 

There’s something for everyone at Pell 1990. Whether it be for seeking a quick ‘fit for a girls’ night out, a last minute gift that slipped your mind or the perfect ensemble for the upcoming Astroworld Festival. 

“When shoppers come to visit, I want them to feel like you’re walking into the fabulous closet of your best friend,” Pell-Wilkerson exclaims, as if she were personally inviting you over.

Visit Pell 1990 located at 24811 Gosling Road, Spring, Texas.