Untamed Threads: Local mom opens boutique to redefine boys’ fashion

As a busy mom of three boys, Erica Anderson wanted convenience, style, and selection when searching for boys’ clothes. When the search became more difficult, Anderson took matters into her own hands and Untamed Threads opened its doors at its new permanent location in Tea.

Anderson raises her three boys aged 11, eight, and three just South of Madison. With boys interested in school, sports, and their friends, Anderson changed her career path to better suit her and her family’s growing needs. 

“Prior to starting my own business, I worked at Pathward Financial Institution for 10 years in banking and human resources. Two and a half years ago, I opened Untamed Threads focusing mainly online and at pop up events and shows,” Anderson said. 

After seeing how well the brand was doing online, Anderson decided it was time for a physical location to sell her clothing. 

“In September, we opened our first permanent physical space in Tea in the Maker’s Exchange building just along with over 70 other independent small businesses,” she said. 

Untamed Threads focuses on modern, neutral and up to date styles of clothing. 

“As a mom of three boys, I struggled for a long time trying to find the style of clothing for my boys that was modern and cool, but still fun. Entrepreneurism and owning my own business have always been goals of mine, but what started out as a small side hustle to pursue a passion and be creative has now become a full-time job for me,” Anderson said. 

While Anderson loves shopping for girls’ clothes, she does not feel the same options exist for boys. 

“Before I had my boys, I had four nieces, and I loved spoiling them and buying them clothes for birthdays or holidays, so it was hard for me when I had my boys to go from having a huge selection to such a small selection that always had the same thing. I decided if the big stores weren’t going to give me what I was looking for, I was going to do it myself,” she said.

What sets Untamed Threads apart from other stores is its ability to serve its niche market and serve it well. 

“Every time a boy mom that finds our shop always says the same words ‘this is such a good idea, boys’ clothes are so hard to find’ and we help this market of moms, dads, and grandparents of little boys find uniqueness and build a strong community together, one that we feel is deserved,” she said.

Having a permanent location in Tea feels right to the Anderson family. 

“We’re so excited to join the growing City of Tea. It truly has become a retail and shopping destination in recent years, and we are thrilled to bring something that no one else has. We hope to be able to provide a solution to moms who have struggles to find cute clothes for their boys,” Anderson said.

The store carries everything from graphic tees, joggers, denim, and accessories for everyday looks to special occasions and is always keeping up with the latest trends by being customer focused.

“We survey our customers a few times a year to make sure we are carrying the styles and sizes that they are interested in. Most often, we carry sizes six months to size six but whenever possible, we also carry youth sizes and occasionally some smaller,” she said.

Anderson is looking forward to customers seeing her selection in person at her new location. 

“Our customers have been so supportive of our small business and it’s always fun to get to know them and their little boys. Nothing makes my heart happier than knowing I was able to make another mom’s life just a little bit easier,” Anderson said.