APPAREL
Stepping Out in Style Apparel Trends at Apparel Boutiques By Carimé Lane
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hat’s currently selling at apparel boutiques across the country? And how are these retailers helping men and women step out with style? Read on for the answers to these questions–and more–about apparel trends at apparel boutiques. Alex Robertson Madden, co-owner of the Favorite Sisters Boutique in Shreveport, La., said things have changed in their 2,200-square-feet of sales space since last year. Then, if it was cozy and casual, you could count it sold said Robertson Madden. Currently, Robertson Madden has been surprised to find customers have been proud to buy more of their specialty and pricier items.
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If you make it easy for them, customers will buy complete outfits, said Robertson Madden. “For my staff and I, it is important that when the customer is going to an event, we make sure we dress them for the entire thing,” said Robertson Madden. For instance, even if a customer doesn’t need shoes, they give the customer a pair of shoes to try on to give them a feel for it. Many customers come into the store and barely browse the racks, said Robertson Madden. At Favorite Sisters, staff know their merchandise well enough to gather items to make up complete outfits for customers. This often involves handing customers 8-10 items to try on in the fitting room, explained Alex Robertson Madden, co-owner, Favorite Sisters Boutique in Shreveport, La., Robertson Madden. said specialty and pricier items are currently selling. Gary Flynn, president, CEO and co-owner of M Duthese fabrications. Easy care, stretch and comfort are mas and Sons in Charleston, S.C., has noted a few all big things right now,” said Flynn. “This trend was trends of the moment. happening already, but the Covid year really accelerTechnical fabrics are one of these, including shorts, ated this.” pants, shirts, polo’s and jackets. “Soft, unconstructed, lightweight sport coats are “People have really bought into the benefits of also on fire,” added Flynn. “It’s hot in the South and
Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties | August/September 2021 | www.sgnmag.com