Pulse: Retail Report: Now Open: Jean Queen

Area mini-chain Smith Bros. may have shuttered its stores, but it isn’t gone for good: It simply merged with growing franchise National Jean Company, which has opened a new shop in Marlton. Just like Smith Bros., it’s a high-end denim authority, selling 70-plus brands in styles that range from trendy  —  like boyfriend jeans from Katie Holmes’s favorite Current/Elliott  —  to boot, straight and wide-leg cuts from Earnest Sewn and Hudson. (Shopgirls are trained to find you a pair that brings out the best in your bootie.) Rounding out the store is a collection of casual, colorful duds, as well as trendy jewelry and scarves. There’s talk of two new locations, in Huntingdon Valley and Margate. The Promenade at Sagemore, 500 Route 73 South, Marlton, 856-596-2121, nationaljeancompany.com.

Also just opened
Event florist Donna O’Brien of Beautiful Blooms has debuted a retail flower shop in Northern Liberties where she sells hand-tied bouquets and houseplants, as well as vases and candles. Sign up for classes to help your arrangement skills blossom. Across the street, Eclatante Event Design and Boutique is another new event-planning-turned-retail spot, from Kendall Brown. Besides selling hostess and wedding gifts, it’s a party-planning studio that showcases samples of flatware and linens to make your gala grand. 1021 North 3rd Street, 215-925-3111, beautifulblooms.com; 1031 North 3rd Street, 215-925-9911, eclatantedesign.com.