29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Premium and contemporary

Altar'd State

United States

Altar'd State is an American women's fashion boutique chain founded in 2009 in Knoxville, Tennessee. It sells bohemian-style clothing alongside accessories, home décor and gifts, and pairs its retail business with a charitable mission.

Facts
Founded2009, Knoxville, Tennessee
FoundersAaron Walters, Brian Mason
StoresMore than 100 boutiques
FocusWomen's fashion, accessories, home décor and gifts
Websitealtardstate.com
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
WomenswearAccessoriesHome
Sales channels
Own storesE-commerce

What is Altar'd State?

Altar'd State is a United States retailer of women's fashion and lifestyle products. It was founded in 2009 in Knoxville, Tennessee, by Aaron Walters and Brian Mason, who met while working for a large clothing chain and wrote their business plan in a coffee shop in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Products and positioning

The brand offers bohemian-inspired fashion aimed at younger shoppers, complemented by accessories, home décor and gift items. Stores are designed as boutiques rather than conventional mall units, and the assortment mixes apparel with lifestyle products.

Distribution

Altar'd State operates a network of more than 100 boutiques across the United States and also sells online through its own website.

Mission

A defining feature of the company is its stated aim to "stand out for good in the world". Its activities include:

  • Donations to local communities around its stores
  • A volunteer programme for employees
  • Funding for child-focused social development initiatives in underserved areas of Peru

Why it matters

Altar'd State illustrates how a speciality retailer can build customer loyalty by linking its store experience to a clear purpose, combining physical boutique retail with community engagement.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Altar'd State?

Altar'd State was founded in 2009 by Aaron Walters and Brian Mason.

Where is Altar'd State from?

Altar'd State was founded in Knoxville, Tennessee, in the United States.

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