A Tulsa clothing boutique that has served customers for more than a century is getting national recognition after being named one of The New York Times’ 25 best clothing stores in America.

Aberson’s first opened in 1916 and later evolved into the high-end boutique it is known as today. The store set out to bring exclusive fashion found in places like New York and Paris to Tulsa, while offering personal service aimed at building long-term customer relationships.

One shopper said the store’s atmosphere sets it apart from other high-end retailers.

“I feel like it’s some other higher end stores. Sometimes you feel like you have to look a certain way to be accepted, and that is not the case here at all,” says Cheryl Ulmpr a frequent shopper at the store.

Steve Aberson, co-founder of Aberson’s, said the store’s focus on customer service and understanding what clients want helped it stand out.

“I told them the things we’re talking about. What’s important to us? Customer service, and knowing, knowing that what our customer needs and wants, and bringing them the finest clothing, with a point of view that we feel like is important to the client, and I think that really got them because that’s what they wanted to hear. And I mean, we’re in the top 25 in the country. I’m very humbled and overwhelmed that they chose us, but very grateful too,” Aberson said.

While the honor is for Aberson’s, some customers said the recognition is also a point of pride for Tulsa as the city continues investing in small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Cheryl Ulmpr, a frequent shopper, called Aberson’s a unique place in Tulsa and said it offers an experience that feels personal rather than intimidating.

“I just think it’s such a unique place, and it’s just so important for me to know that there is something like this in Tulsa. more exclusive place to shop, and it’s not. It seems like it would be overwhelming, but it’s not because it’s almost. It feels like that it is a couture just for me. Each person here helps their client build a unique and wardrobe that reflects them and their personalities,” Ulmpr said.

As Tulsa’s small business community continues to grow, Aberson’s’ recognition highlights how a homegrown business can earn national attention while staying rooted in the city.

“It’s a joy and a pleasure and an honor to do this for our clients, and that’s something that we will always, always do,” said Steve Aberson.