Melanzana (clothing brand)

Melanzana is an American clothing retailer based in Leadville, Colorado.

History
In 1994, Fritz Howard founded Eggplant, an outdoor clothing company. Due to a copyright dispute, the company was renamed Melanzana, the Italian word for eggplant. The brand's first storefront in Leadville opened in 1997; operations were moved to a space on the town's historic Harrison Avenue in 2008. The company relocated once more to its current location on Harrison Avenue in 2008. In 2021, Melanzana expanded manufacturing operations to a second Harrison Avenue location.

Manufacturing
Melanzana products are cut and sewn by hand at the brand's Harrison Avenue facilities using Polartec polar fleece. Fabric rejected by Melanzana may be donated to other small Colorado businesses through the company's ReMelly'd initiative.

Retail
Melanzana does not sell garments online, though the website is frequently updated with general product availability. Customers must reserve an appointment to purchase most of the brand's items at the physical store on Harrison Avenue. As of December 2023, customers are limited to one appointment every six months and may only purchase two items at each appointment. Smaller items such as socks and hats may be purchased at the store without an appointment. The brand's exclusive nature has garnered Melanzana a cult following among outdoor recreation enthusiasts.