Where there were once textbooks in MU’s Bookstore basement there are now items ranging from dresses, earrings, scarves, to dorm décor and even futons.

The idea for the change came from the central buying office at MU.

“We wanted to do something fun during off season of the textbooks,” Student and Auxiliary Services spokeswoman Michelle Froese said. “The textbook department will come back later this summer, but we figured it would be a waste of retail space to not have anything there so we made this.”

The “this” Froese is referring to is the bevy of fashion items and decorations said to be flying off the shelves.

“The items go really quickly,” senior MU Bookstore cashier Abbi Walker said. “We only get one shipment a month, and what ever sells out is gone.”

A student viewing the collection for the first time said she had a positive reaction to the bookstore’s change of items.

“It really caught my eye,” sophomore Julie Oehler said. “I just wanted to check it out.”

The space also caught the eye of freshman Elise Ferron.

“I find it really beneficial for students because we can student charge our purchases,” she said. “It helps that the prices are very reasonable and convenient.”

Some of the retail brands include Hello Miss, Sloane Ranger and All for Color. Froese said these items were specifically chosen to be sold at MU.

“There are multiple manufacturers for the items,” Froese said. “Buyers look for limited quantities and price points that don’t have an MU insignia. The idea is that we don’t buy large quantities and these items aren’t sold online, once they are gone they are gone.”

Junior Ashley Segrave said she views the new addition to the bookstore, as well as their buying method, as positives.

“I think this is a great idea,” Segrave said. “Affordable cute clothes right on campus is ideal for students. I also love the fact that the items are all limited quantity. Even if you buy something from here you won’t see a bunch of other people wearing it, it keeps the clothing unique.”

Froese said she has also received positive feedback for the new items.

“The students love it,” Froese said. “I’ve talked to numerous students and they love the price points and love the fashion items.”

There is more to come for this redefined space.

“We may be seeing some things like skateboards,” Froese said. “Right now we are looking into more item options.”

As for men’s clothing, junior cashier Emily Beck said the wait is almost over.

“Guys stuff is coming, don’t worry,” she said.

Students may want to get their fashion fix now before textbook season rolls around in the fall.

“This portion of the bookstore will remain open until rush textbook season comes back,” Froese said.