FEELING AT HOME

 HOUSE OF 423 10 E. Wilson St., Batavia 630-423-1664 www.houseof423.com

FIND CLASSIC WARDROBE PIECES AT HOUSE OF 423, WHOSE COZY INTERIOR ENHANCES THE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

By Louise Treeny | Photos by Amy Nelson Photography and provided by House of 423

It’d be a bit of an understatement to say it’s been a busy 18 months for Sarah Whitt. Since opening House of 423 in April 2021, she’s won a prestigious entrepreneurial scholarship, hosted her first fashion show and been named finest women’s boutique in Kane County’s Finest. “I’m proud of being true to myself and following my dreams,” Whitt says, adding she’s proud of becoming a shop that is trusted in the community. Located on Wilson Street in downtown Batavia, House of 423 offers a mix of classic wardrobe staples, current trends and accessories. The space itself is relatively small, which Whitt uses to craft the type of experience shoppers have. “What sets us apart is we are so small that we can get to know each customer,” she notes. “It feels like they’re getting their own personal styling session.” The boutique offers a wide range of jeans — everything from skinny to straight (the most popular) to wide-leg. Almost all have no holes or rips, giving more women the option to wear them to work. Ahead of buying her store’s offerings, Whitt says she educated herself on women’s bodies to learn what would look flattering and feel comfortable. Wearing clothes that fit right leads to increased confidence, too. “I have found jean inseams that work for most women’s bodies,” she says. “Fitting people in jeans is my favorite thing to do.” In September, Whitt learned House of 423 was a recipient of the Grow Your Business Scholarship, a product of collaboration between the Fox Valley Entrepreneurship Center and Batavia Chamber of Commerce. As part of the award, she now works oneon-one with a business consultant, learning how to manage the finances, employees and growth of her booming business. Then, less than two weeks later, House of 423 and Urban Style Salon collaborated on their first fashion show featuring 20 models, charcuterie, bubbly, florals and more. “I fit everyone in two different outfits,” Whitt remembers. “It came together so well.” She’s hoping to do fashion shows quarterly, with the next one ideally for spring 2023 styles. Speaking of current trends, Whitt is noticing a resurgence in ’90s looks, specifically when it comes to the wide jeans. Neutrals — brown and camel tones, in particular — are in style, but they also serve as timeless wardrobe pieces. With her win in Kane County’s Finest, scholarship through the chamber and continued involvement in Batavia MainStreet events, Whitt has not shied away from getting involved in the community. Being surrounded by so many women-owned businesses has helped, too. “I’ve found my people,” she says.