About

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Velvet Coat has been a destination for thoughtfully curated fashion since 2000. Founded in Downtown Iowa City, our boutique offers a handpicked selection of beautifully designed clothing, footwear, jewelry, and accessories. In 2007, we expanded with a second location in the Historic East Village of Des Moines, continuing our commitment to effortless, luxurious style. 

From timeless classics to bold statement pieces, we seek out high-quality designs that blend craftsmanship with modern versatility—perfect for both work and play. What truly sets Velvet Coat apart is our highly personal approach to service. Whether you visit us in-store, shop online, or reach out over the phone, you’ll always receive thoughtful, hands-on assistance. Michelle and Catherine personally select every item in our collection, and every customer inquiry is answered by a real person.

We’re passionate about providing an exceptional shopping experience, ensuring that every visit—whether in person or virtual—is warm, welcoming, and inspiring.

Our Team

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At Velvet Coat, our team is more than just staff—we’re personal shoppers and stylists, here to make your shopping experience seamless and inspiring. Whether you're visiting us in-store for the first time, shopping online and need a second opinion, or a longtime customer looking for fresh style inspiration, we’re here to help. Thoughtful, personalized service is at the heart of what we do, ensuring you feel confident in every piece you choose.

Get to know the friendly faces behind Velvet Coat—here’s a little introduction to each of our team members.
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Michelle Galvin Owner + Buyer

How would you describe your personal style?
I am always drawn to clean lines, good design, and quality construction and have been known to geek out over the inside of a garment just as much as the outside. I am more of a maximalist with my jewelry.

Favorite brand we carry at the store?
Oh this is so hard to answer! As a buyer I think every designer we carry has a place and value here. I find myself wearing a lot of Christian Wijnants, Tibi, Maria Cornejo, TWP, Jamie Haller and of course Marla Aaron. She has changed my entire perspective on jewelry. 

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item?
I am always a sucker for a classic menswear loafer. 

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
Plated Table in Iowa City. Alex and her crew have created a space that feels so soothing with incredible food and wine. A good week always includes dinner and drinks at PT.

Contact michelle@velvetcoat.us
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Michelle Vasquez Iowa City Manager + Stylist

How would you describe your personal style?
Classic with a twist. I love timeless pieces that I can wear over and over again, but I’m also drawn to fun, unique elements that give an outfit personality.

Favorite brand we carry at the store?
Staud and Closed are my go-tos. Staud is a favorite for their blending of timeless silhouettes with bold and playful details. Closed always nails the elevated yet effortlessly cool look.

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item?
A black or white ribbed t-shirt. It’s such a simple piece, but I can pair it with just about anything.

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
Beno’s Flowers always catches my eye with their unique selection of florals and thoughtful gifts. Everything feels carefully curated. 
 
Contact at mvasquez@velvetcoat.us
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Catherine Erickson Iowa City Stylist + Buyer

How would you describe your personal style?
I would describe my style as classic and restrained. I like having some fun with what I wear though. I like an interesting shape or cut on a classic blouse or pair of pants. I tend not to follow trends too closely but like to mix in updates with things that I already own.

Favorite brand we carry at the store? 
My favorite designers are Tibi, Citizens of Humanity, Jamie Haller and Lisa Yang.

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item? 
You can do just about anything in jeans and a great button down blouse.

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
In Iowa City I love Revival, Willow and Stock, and Prairie Lights.

Contact catherine@velvetcoat.us
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Frankie Schneckloth Digital Director + Window Artist

How would you describe your personal style?
Classic. Tomboy. Playful. I try to find ways to style things that feel more personal to me—I appreciate an unexpected sock or a weird pairing of pieces and I love hand-me-downs from my Mom’s closet or handmade things.

Favorite brand we carry at the store? 
I am a total Tibi fangirl. I love the interesting design elements woven into their pieces and their approach to color. I find myself reaching for my Tibi pieces over and over. Closed, Soeur, and Jamie Haller are also favorites—very wearable and effortlessly cool.

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item? 
A bright red lipstick! And a good baseball hat. I wear both almost every day.

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
It’s not quite a small business, but I love the Iowa City Public Library. I feel truly rich whenever I leave and am endlessly inspired. 

Contact frankie@velvetcoat.us
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Becky Nash Des Moines Manager + Stylist

How would you describe your personal style?
I would say I am contemporary-preppy-feminine along with color-filled and fun (i.e., mix patterns, styles, eras). I love a good pop of color along with head-to-toe monochromatic looks to make a statement through fashion. 

Favorite brand we carry at the store? 
Trovata, Closed, Amo and Marion Parke for starters. I am also loving the new Staud line! 

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item? 
An awesome blazer with a button down, jeans and booties, especially in the fall and cooler months! 

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
Here in Des Moines, a few of my favorites are Kitchen Collage, She, Eden, Petals and Blooms, and Louie’s Home & Gifts. 

Contact becky@velvetcoat.us
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Julia Talerico Des Moines Stylist + DSM OG

How would you describe your personal style?
Bohemian with a bit of an edge. I have always loved the mix of textures, accessories and of course a fabulous handbag.

Favorite brand we carry at the store?
Citizens of Humanity and Amo for denim, Closed, TWP, Lauren Manoogian, Tibi, Xirena, Carolina K, P Sophia, Il Bisonte, Officine Creative, Pascale Monvoisin, and Nouvel Heritage.

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item?
Current pair of jeans, chunky sweaters, blouses, a beautiful dress, lots of jewels and handbags (and don’t forget the socks!).

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
I have always loved beautiful body products, so Eden is one of my all time favorites. I’m an antiquer, so vintage shops. Reclaimed is a favorite in the East Village. Also, home furnishing shops that have interesting, unique pieces. Indie House is one in our neighborhood. And of course, always Kitchen Collage, one of the best in the country!

Contact julia@velvetcoat.us
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Gigi Gordon Des Moines Stylist

How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is eclectic and expressive, often evolving based on my mood or the setting. I’m drawn to bold prints and statement pieces that add personality to my wardrobe. I enjoy curating looks that combine a range of brands and price points, allowing me to create distinctive, versatile outfits that reflect both creativity and thoughtful composition.

Favorite brand we carry at the store? 
Maria Cornejo is a favorite. Her prints are unique and her silhouettes are so flattering. I also appreciate Citizens of Humanity for their high quality and attention to detail.

What’s your wardrobe staple/must have item? 
A vibrant button-down is an essential piece in my wardrobe. It’s effortlessly versatile—equally striking when styled with classic denim, grounded neutrals, or a bold color contrast. Whether worn open as a light layer or buttoned up for a more structured look, it offers endless styling potential while adding a statement touch to any ensemble.

What other businesses bring you joy or inspiration?
Located in Des Moines’ East Village, KIN is a constant source of inspiration for me. Their thoughtfully curated jewelry, featuring a range of semi-precious stones, is not only visually striking but also offers a sense of grounding and personal connection. Another local favorite is Amour, a beautifully curated boutique specializing in unique intimates. 

Contact gigi@velvetcoat.us