Four Generations of Fashion

By: Hope Finley

It all started with a $1,000 loan, some sample dresses and a woman with a dream. 52 years ago Dulcie Roberts started The Clothes Tree in Center point, Alabama, as a boutique for women.

Mother Daughter Duo Deborah and Tori

Specializing in sportswear and work attire, Dulcie didn’t know then, her small entrepreneurship would turn into a family business that would be passed down through four generations.

Deborah Wiggins is the current owner of The Clothes Tree by Deborah and is the granddaughter of Dulcie Roberts. Her daughter, and Dulcie’s great granddaughter, Tori Chappell, is the co-owner.

Deborah grew up in the store. “When I was 12, I started serving customers, and then I started going to market with her and buying when I was 14.  I’ve been doing it all my life, and I just love it.”

The Clothes Tree by Deborah remains true to their beginnings and carries women’s sportswear and work attire, but has expanded and now specializes in prom, pageant and formal wear.

Tori, Ruth, Deborah, Mandy and Chloe

A proud sponsor of the Miss America and Miss USA pageants, The Clothes Tree dresses Miss Alabama, Miss Alabama USA and Miss Alabama Teen USA among many other title holders.

With over 7,000 square feet customers are sure to find an outfit and accessories that will make them the belle of the ball.

Carrying designers like Sherri Hill, Jovani and Tony Bowls for prom and pageant, Cameron Blake, Mon Cheri and Daymor for Mother of the Bridal Party, and brands such as Michael Starrs, Drew, Joseph Ribcoff and many others in sportswear.

The Clothes Tree by Deborah is located at 2880 Old Rocky Ridge Road in Vestavia Hills. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To book an after-hours appointment, call Deborah at (205) 337-4515 or Tori at (205) 337-4341. For more information, visit their website at theclothestreebydeborah.com. You can also check out their Facebook and Instagram.