It’s not often that a local business can thrive in a community for over 40 years, so when one does, it must be something special. 

 

Cayman’s, a lifestyle boutique that offers a curated collection of men’s and women’s clothing, home decor, and beauty items, has been a staple in the Carriage Plaza Shopping Center since 1980, serving as a place for Norman locals and visitors alike to discover their next favorite thing. 

 

The Early Years of Cayman’s 

The Cayman’s of today originated from another local Norman business, known as The Locker Room, which was originally purchased by Shelley Cox, her parents, and her brother in the 1980s. 

 

The Locker Room sold primarily boys’ clothing, but after owning the store for about a year, the family decided to make some changes, starting with its name.

 

“My father’s name was Caylon Coleman, so it’s [Cayman’s] is the first three letters of his first name, last three letters of our last name,” says Shelley. “We wanted a name that didn’t matter what we carried; it would work. So naming it after him was very special, for sure.” 

 

After changing its name, the business continued to evolve and opened its second location in Carriage Plaza in the early 1980s, which sold girls’ and women’s clothing. 

 

However, in 1985, the decision was made to merge the original store and the second location, and Cayman’s settled into its present-day location at 2001 W. Main Street. 

 

“We’ve just really watched it evolve over the years, and it’s really growing right now,” Shelley says. Following a 7,000-square-foot expansion in the early 2000s, Cayman’s has continued to grow and flourish in the heart of the Norman community. 

 

Strong Community Ties 

The University of Oklahoma is undoubtedly woven into the heartbeat of Norman, and businesses across the city feel its impact. Cayman’s is no exception to this. 

 

“Being in a university community is just, there just are not words for it,” says Cox. “It’s fantastic. It’s youthful, it’s ever evolving, and that’s what makes it fun.” 

 

Annual events tied to the university, such as Parents’ Weekend and Panhellenic Recruitment, are times each year when Cayman’s thrives. “A lot of what we do here does revolve around OU for sure,” says Shelley.

 

As a premier sponsor of OU’s Interfraternity Council (IFC) and Panhellenic Association, partnerships with OU are something that is woven into the fabric of Cayman’s, and OU’s transition to the SEC has only brought about more excitement. 

 

Shelley shared that her business has felt some of the impacts of OU's transition. “You know, it’s just bringing a lot of people, introducing a lot of people, to our store from all over the country, and it’s been a lot of fun.” 

 

A Welcoming Spot for All Customers

When stepping inside Cayman’s, there’s plenty that may catch your eye. From their stunning fine jewelry case to their racks of men’s and women’s clothing, or their wall of purses and perfumes, Cayman’s truly has something that caters to all tastes. 

 

No matter what you might be shopping for, however, the employees there to greet and assist you are what really sets Cayman’s apart. 

 

“Customer service, without question, is what has maintained our business,” says Shelley. Before adding “And, you know, being there for people. And you know if you’re like, ‘Hey, I’ve got 10 minutes before I pick up my child.’ Go for it, you know? Have fun.” 

 

Unique Finds, Right Here in Norman

When you go visit Cayman’s, give yourself a while to browse, because chances are you might find a treasure - or two that you just can’t live without. 

 

So the next time you need a thoughtful gift, a mini closet refresh, or that perfect new piece for your home’s interior, look no further than Cayman’s.