Let’s Hear it for The Girls!
Downtown Tempe's Newest Retailer, Knee Deep Tempe, is Open on Mill Avenue. ✨🩷
Good news, babes! There’s a sparkly new clothing store on Mill Avenue in Downtown Tempe, and it’s fabulous and just for the girls! On March 7, 2025, Knee Deep Tempe opened its doors, bringing a fresh, locally owned shopping destination to the heart of our city.
Here's your inside look so far!
Owned and designed by RaeAnn Luksza, the creative force behind the Arizona-based brand Knee Deep Denim, this is the first local clothing store in Downtown Tempe that is dedicated entirely to women.🙌🏼
RaeAnn’s journey began in 2012 when she started selling her unique designs on Etsy, eventually expanding to her first retail store in Phoenix’s Melrose District and later at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Now, with her sights set on Tempe, RaeAnn is closing her Scottsdale location to focus on her Melrose and Downtown Tempe stores.
RaeAnn is creating a space that not only fills a void for unique women’s apparel but also strengthens the local business community. Her inclusive and relevant designs appeal to ASU students, residents, and visitors alike, and her dedication to fostering community makes her a perfect addition to the Downtown Tempe business community.
The Story Behind Knee Deep
The name “Knee Deep” is rooted in RaeAnn’s love for denim and the carefree vibe of lake days and vintage streetwear. Originally called Knee Deep Denim, the brand’s name evokes the image of wearing denim shorts while wading knee-deep into the water, weather it be a river, lake, or beach. Over the past 12 years, the brand has evolved to offer much more than just denim, embodying a bold and practical yet fun aesthetic.
Why Downtown Tempe?
For RaeAnn, choosing Downtown Tempe felt like destiny. “There’s no place like Mill” is the expression she has prominently displayed on her storefront posters, and isn't that the truth! 💯
Drawn to the neighborhood’s unique, local energy, RaeAnn knew Mill Avenue was the ideal home for her next big chapter. Plus, being right in ASU’s backyard means it’s super easy for students, festival-goers and locals to pop in and explore.
What’s in Store?
Knee Deep Tempe serves up a dreamy selection of rave, swim, and lingerie styles, alongside denim shorts, reworked vintage pieces and playful tops with cheeky, conversation-starting sayings. RaeAnn’s focus on size inclusivity ensures every shopper feels seen and celebrated. From year-round swimwear (because Arizona!) to custom and on-demand designs, RaeAnn is always tuned in to what her customers want—whether it’s the latest festival gear or something perfect for Spring Training or WMO. Currently in stock there is a wide assortment of statement-making hats, glasses, patches and other fun accessories to check out. RaeAnn anticipates bringing more into the store, but it's quite a selection so far.
More Than Fashion
RaeAnn’s passion goes beyond creating clothes; she’s all about building community. “The best part is seeing your vision come to life and knowing your customers love what you’ve made,” she shares. Her dedication to supporting small businesses and fostering connections is at the heart of everything she does. Looking ahead, RaeAnn plans to add a co-op section in the store, giving ASU students a platform to showcase and sell their own creations. How cool is that?
A Space That Sparkles
Knee Deep Tempe is located at 512 S. Mill Avenue, next to Sparky’s and Candle Chemistry. In just one week, RaeAnn transformed the former barber shop space, In the Cut, into a dazzling, one-of-a-kind store filled with glitz, glam, and sparkle. The decor perfectly complements the rave, swim, and lingerie pieces that make Knee Deep so unique. The store had a soft opening on March 7 but RaeAnn isn't done with renovations just yet. There is definitely more on the way, so make sure to follow @kneedeepdemin.
Knee Deep Tempe isn’t just a clothing store, it’s a vibe, a celebration of individuality, and a testament to the power of local businesses. Stop by, say hi to RaeAnn, and experience the magic of Knee Deep in Downtown Tempe for yourself! Also, follow @downtowntempe and @kneedeepdemin on Instagram to learn more about upcoming events, including details on their Grand Opening in April.
“The best part is seeing your vision come to life and knowing your customers love what you’ve made,”
RaeAnn Luksza, Owner of Knee Deep Tempe
