After more than 40 years of flying its freak flag, Noir Leather is leaving downtown Royal Oak.
Fortunately, it’s not the end of the BDSM-themed shop.
The store confirmed in a social media post on Tuesday that it will soon relocate to downtown Ferndale, writing, “After 42 years, 3 locations, and hundreds of events… an era ends and a new one begins…”
The business described its new location as “back to basics, artist-driven and artist-run, featuring dark fashion, alternative jewelry and vintage with in-house custom leather, always unexpected and unapologetically kinky.”
It continued, “You’ll have questions, you’ll have feelings, but we’re confident we’re going to exceed your expectations.”
According to the post, the Ferndale location’s target opening date is May 22, with “a naughty reopening party” to be announced.
The new location is 175 W. Nine Mile Rd., at the former Candle Wick Shoppe.
Noir Leather was founded in 1983 by leather worker Keith Howarth, helping transform Royal Oak from a sleepy suburb to a center of retail of nightlife. The store sells BDSM and fetish gear and has hosted regular alternative fashion shows, burlesque performances, and art exhibitions. Its most recent Royal Oak location was at 124 W. 4th St.
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