Laura Tanzer working on new shoe designs. Local fashion boutiques and designers continue to face challenges due to the pandemic, but some have recently seen shoppers looking for new clothes alongside a push for more sustainability in the industry. Last March, businesses especially non-essential businesses like boutiques and thrift shops were forced to close. The pandemic had a rippling effect across the industry as manufacturers also closed and barriers arose to traveling to places to find source materials and designs. Not only small boutiques but large powerhouse brands and retailers suffered through the pandemic, with factory shutdowns and delays in merchandise. Many filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, including retailers like J. Crew, Men s Wearhouse and Lucky Brand.