Buffalo booster and fashion guru Giovanni “Gio” Centurione has signed a lease on the last available retail storefront (first floor) at the Market Arcade. The space is nestled in-between Sai One and an entranceway into Expo Market (soon to open).
Gio first got his start in the world of fashion in NYC nearly 15 years ago, when he immersed himself into the runway scene. In 2005 he moved back to Buffalo, where he began to cover this city’s downtown fashion and retail boutiques for Buffalo Rising. For as long as I have 
known Gio, he has devoted himself to keeping tabs on each and every retail advancement that has been made in Downtown Buffalo. He has also helped to create and promote numerous fashion shoots, using Main Street and the Metro Rail as his backdrop. By promoting downtown retail pioneers, he in turn showcased the potential of various urban enclaves that were relatively unfamiliar to many people. Gio also devoted his time to networking with photographers, stylists, clothing designers and retailers, in order to demonstrate the power and the magic of collaboratives. Gio’s urban sensibilities, and his desire for inclusivity, has made a mark on BRO, social media, and the streets of Buffalo.
Now Gio is transcending the world of fashion shows and photography. He’s embarking upon another dream of his – to be a tangible part of the retail fabric by opening his own male clothing boutique called Trend Up. “I’ve been thinking about this for years,” he told me. “I’ve been watching the Market Arcade, and all of the stores that have opened. This building has been busier than ever, and when Expo opens it’s going to be a game changer. This is what we’ve all been waiting for.”
Trend Up will feature urban contemporary clothing. Racks will be filled with European slick lines ranging from quality t-shirts and pants, to accessories that include fitted hats. The merchandise is geared towards teen to 30 somethings. “Trend Up will be the only store in Buffalo carrying Emperor Apparel (Australia) and DOPE (LA),” stated Gio. “The lines will be hip and trendy, with clothing that you might only find in places like Brooklyn.
Gio’s given name essentially translates to “John Roman Soldier”. For years, the man has lived up to his name, by safeguarding downtown Buffalo to the best of his ability. He’s been patrolling the streets, and keeping a watchful eye over the people and the places that he cares about. There are very few people that I know that bleed Buffalo blood the way that Gio does. His enthusiasm for this city is contagious. “Buffalo is a different city now,” he shared. “There are new buildings and storefronts. There are people driving and walking down Main Street. I’m seeing a lot of positive sides of Buffalo – not just Downtown, but all over the city. The revitalization of different neighborhoods encourages me. I have so many ideas for the future.”
Trend Up will be opening in early March. You can follow Gio and his friends on his Blogspot page.
Trend Up | Market Arcade | (Unit 201) – 617 Main Street | Buffalo, NY | 347-962-6162