Sassi story the
The vibrant and fun style of fashion in Cairns makes it the perfect destination for an equally colourful footwear boutique. That’s why in 2005, Joan Wilson launched Sassi Shoe Boutique to bring the world’s latest trends to the people of Tropical North Queensland. With more than 30 years in the fashion and footwear industry, Joan has both the passion and knowledge to identify the best selections and provide the best service. Sourcing brands from Italy, Spain, Brazil, Portugal, USA as well as top Australian labels, Sassi offers international style with an affordable price tag. “I love shoes, I love fashion and I love a business challenge,” Joan beams. Celebrating 10 years of Sassi this year, Joan looks back to her beginning in the fashion industry as a fresh-faced 21-year-old, climbing the ladder from store manager to area manager and eventually national footwear buyer at Sears in the UK. A move to Papua New Guinea with her husband Stuart in 1987 opened her eyes to a wider world and three children later, she arrived in Cairns. “Coming from a little seaside town in Scotland, brrr, I can tell you there is no better place than Cairns to call home.” Identifying a lack of choice in womens footwear in Cairns, the concept for Sassi Shoe Boutique was born. Offering a fashionable alternative to the generic brands and conservative comfort shoes available at the time, the business soon outgrew its original shopfront and in 2008 relocated to its current location at 82 Grafton Street.
“When it comes to range selection, Cairns is a unique environment - our cool days are few and far between and our tropical environment allows us to embrace colour far more than our southern counterparts,” says Joan. “The laid back culture of Cairns and the sophistication of its women is quite the oxymoronthe local culture is very ‘she’ll be right mate’ whereas our look is very Mediterranean, colourful, fun and well put together, often seen at its best during our Spring racing season. It’s one of the most enjoyable times for the Cairns community and at Sassi as we love helping our clients add the final touches to their fabulous outfits.”
Greatest Inspiration: My mammy. Growing up we didn’t have two bob but she gave us kids mad, happy times. She drummed into us everyone is equal and our work ethic is important. Greatest Milestone: Becoming an Australian citizen. Biggest Challenge: Having my Scottish accent understood on the phone! Vision for the future: Youth in business. Secret to success: Words and actions they are equally important.
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CairnsLife
BY MICHELLE DRYBURGH
Joan Wilson
Sassi Shoe Boutique