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SHOPPING FANATIC
Some religious statues are said to bring good fortune. That seems to be the case for Siam Imports, which has a Hindu one almost five feet high at its entrance. Owners Kevin and Saengdao Costello started their business at 2567 S. King St. three years ago showcasing ethnic treasures from Thailand and Japan. The tiny store was so full of inventory, some of it spilled onto a sidewalk display, and then a few months ago, flowed into a second small shop they opened at 2570 S. Beretania St. called Siam Imports II. What the shops lack in space they make up in atmosphere. Thai background music and the scent of incense, $3 a box, conjure images of exotic countries and create a pleasant ambience for browsing through the cultural finds on the shelves. Cultural treasures
at Siam ImportsSimple items to update a wardrobe include Indian glass bangles, $1 each for thin, delicate ones, or $10 for a wider set of 3; braided, long-strap sari purse, $9; sari-pattern slippers, $19. Add a touch of zen to home interiors with bronze, brass or pewter Buddhist and Hindu statues from $9, paper lanterns, $12 to $14, or tatami picnic set with pillow, $79.
They also carry the now-stylish sari wrap skirts with gold-tone borders "like the waitresses wear in Thai restaurants here," Kevin says, from $24. Shiny raw silk mandarin tops are $19. Japanese anime tanks and tees, currently on sale (buy-one-get-one free), from $16.
Perhaps the Costellos luck includes perfect timing with the ethnic fad. But it's more likely plain business savvy. "Ethnic fashion trends come in waves," says owner Kevin, "but we've done pretty well even in its down cycle. We buy from small vendors in Thailand so we can pass savings onto customers."
Siam Imports: 2567 S. King St., open daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Siam Imports II: 2570 S. Beretania St., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m daily.
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