Us girls at The Globe are always looking for chic new boutiques across the country! The most recent one that has caught our eye is Suite 201 boutique in Ridgewood, New Jersey!
Just opening almost a month ago, the boutique (whose customers love designers Sam & Lavi and Heartloom) is gaining quick strides in the industry! I chatted with owner Alina Leshiner to get the inside scoop on her new found venture! Born in the Ukraine, Aline moved between Brooklyn and Ohio before settling in New Jersey, where she has been living for the past 13 years.
Read my interview with Alina below:
How did you get into the fashion industry? When I was little I wanted to be a teacher because I thought they were allowed to wear cute outfits to work! I started at my first retail job at Arden B at 16. I then worked corporate retail for 4 years and decided I wanted to learn more about specialty retail stores, that's when the real love began!
What made you decide to open your own boutique?I wanted my own store for the past 5 years. It is truly what I love; I was at the way end of my road working for others doing something that I deserved to do for myself.
What kind of details do you look for in a brand when choosing clothes for your boutique?
I look for quality, price, and clearly I have to like it. I know right away if I like something or not; I don't need a sales pitch or to hear what the fabrics are. People don't want to spend a fortune on things but they still want good quality and to look great, and that's what I look for the most.
Describe your store concept! How does it stand out from other boutiques in NJ?
My store concept is "different and fun and affordable." It stands out because most stores in NJ are either super safe or "jersey cheese", as I would like to call it. I want people to come in here and say,"Wow she has such amazing things!"
The Spring ’12 fashion shows just wrapped up, were there any trends that caught your eye?
COLOR! I am a black, white and grey person and all I saw was NEONS and color and I am excited about it. Its going to feel great to come out of a nasty Jersey winter into an explosion of hot pink mini skirts and neon yellow sweaters.
I know you do well with our brand Sam & Lavi. What is your favorite trend/style from them & why do you think their clothes work so well for your customer?
I am OBSESSED with the "Fiona" and so is everyone else! I sold out the first two days and re-ordered more. At my grand opening party, so much Sam & Lavi was sold as well! Sam & Lavi has done really well so far. It's the price point and the edginess yet the simplicity of the line that is so amazing. I am super excited to continue working together!
Click here to view Suite 201's website!
