Clutch: You own the boutique along with Set Shakur and Tamura White. How did that collaboration and the name Wild Seed come about?
Set’s and my families knew each other and we knew of one another but had never met. In 2001 I had a fashion-consulting firm and clothing line, K.A.Kitties, where we developed collections for various clients. Set was creative director for Madameveli and K.A.Kitties was brought on to help develop the brand. That’s when Set and I actually met for the first time. We knew who the other was and it created an instant bond.

Tamura and I went to high school together in Atlanta. She was actually a friend of my sister’s then we discovered we were dating the same guy. The guy became history but T and I quickly became best friends, spending every minute together until I left for NY to attend F.I.T. Our friendship continued and has remained strong.

At some point I introduced Set to T. Set needed some clothes made and T was making custom dresses – so I introduced them and they also became instant friends. Today we have the boutique together and we’re joined at the hip. We solidified the boutique location in March and it’s been a whirlwind ever since. We have so many ideas and plans on what we each hope to accomplish through Wild Seed. I’m anxiously looking forward to our future. Set came up with the name Wild Seed and T and I fell in love with it. It came from Octavia Butler’s book Wild Seed. Set was a huge fan and wanted to honor Octavia Butler’s passing.

Clutch: You previously worked as a designer for Heatherette, Eve, Justin Timberlake and Sean John. What made you decide to open a boutique? Has your past experience helped with this venture at all?
Owning a boutique has always been a dream for each of us, so when Set and T asked me to join them, I was elated! Working for someone else is a great learning experience and it can be rewarding. I’ve been designing professionally for 15 years and I’ve gained so much experience. That experience taught me the ins and outs of the fashion business and helped me tremendously in opening the boutique. What’s best about the boutique is we do what WE want in hiring staff, selecting designers, etc. It’s our duty to introduce our customers to our point of view and expose them to designers they may otherwise not know of. I love broadening someone’s fashion knowledge or at least providing access to brands they love but may not be able to get anywhere else in ATL. We want to get to a point where we’ve set a standard and our customers trust us. We want them to feel that we understand their needs and we go above and beyond the call of duty to provide them with the newest and the best. Heatherette, Sean John, all the brands you mentioned have been able to break ground in fashion, show the world their point of view and make a difference on one level or another. Sean John was one of the few black designers to win a CFDA award, Heatherette has auctioned off items for charities. The fashion industry gets involved in the worldly issues in so many ways. We also want to make a difference. We want the boutique to be a vessel for us to give to organizations and issues we feel passionate about. Set has been involved in philanthropy for many years and T and I contribute to charities also. Wild Seed is not only a boutique but sends a message to everyone that you can do whatever you set your mind to do.

Clutch: What’s the vibe of the boutique like?
The vibe of the shop is similar to our own vibe. Out of the ordinary, unique, super fly and chic, yet unexpectedly calm, relaxing and unpretentious. When people walk into the boutique they feel they’ve stepped into our Wild Seed universe. Its as if everything outside of our doors disappear and you’re only able to feel the comfort we provide. It’s a meditation and therapeutic haven.

Clutch: How would you describe your personal style? Is that reflected in the merchandise selection or anywhere in the store?
Each of us has our own personal style, completely different from one another. Somehow in the boutique each of those individual styles come together. When you walk into Wild Seed, it is a reflection of our individual styles.

Set’s style is very tailored 70’s and loves to accentuate her body especially the breasts. Set’s icon is Gianni Versace. She’s the spit fire, the wild child. Anything fitted, she loves!

T’s style is southern bell, flowery. Her icon is Roberto Cavalli. She is very feminine. Loves ruffles and glitter. T’s the dainty lady.

Kiki’s style is unique, very 80’s Kylmaxx. Kiki loves vintage, Her icon is Grace Jones, designer icon is Betsey Johnson / Vivianne Westwood. Very funky.

We each own the style we feel and love. We don’t fit in where people want us to fit in. We’re just us. And that’s exactly what Wild Seed represents.

Clutch: What type of woman do you imagine shopping it up at Wild Seed?
The woman who will love Wild Seed is the woman who hates to be boxed in. She will be who she wants to be regardless of what anyone else thinks about her. She’s driven to style and is passionate about the image she chooses to express through her fashion choices. She’s mature, confident, she trusts herself and doesn’t believe in playing it safe.

Clutch: I read that Wild Seed’s product offering includes designer denim brands like Serfontaine and covet worthy vintage items by Escada and Louis Vuitton. Are there any emerging designers in the mix that we should be on the lookout for?

We found a few great treasures when searching for new designers that we don’t get to see too often. One is Philip Plein. Its a European line, they’re one of our more expensive brands but the uniqueness and intricate quality of each garment is perfect for Wild Seed. Voudoo is another fantastic designer from NY. We ran into the collection at a trade show and I can say it’s the only brand we carry where we have ordered the entire collection. They have fantastic silhouettes that flatter any body type. The tailoring is exquisite and the fabrics are new and unique. We’re so proud to be the only store in ATL to carry Voudoo. I feel like we’ve made an awesome discovery. There’s also Pure Bohemian. Another brand we feel lucky to have discovered. It’s a Swedish brand. Pure Bohemian takes fabrics not necessarily intended to be apparel and they mix and match fabrics together like a collage and hand sew one of a kind pieces. When you look at it, it’s a work of art.

Clutch: What are some of your favorite items in the store right now?
Kiki:There’s this 80’s vintage Tadashi cocktail dress that I’m totally in love with! It has my name written all over it!
Set: I Love the Philip Plein dress with large jewels.
Tamura: LaRok Sequin racer back and Salanida high waist satin pants.

Clutch: What trends/items are you looking forward to offering for fall?
We each are looking forward to the Mackage coats!! They’re so posh! So typical of Wild Seed.

Kiki: I love all the bright colors mixed with the earth tones. I like the role accessories play. You can take a simple silhouette with great color and take tons of fun accessories and make a big statement.

T: Studded Jeans, Exotic skin purses, And all the purple hues!

Set: classic denim, classic fits, woven button downs, fitted tees.

Wild Seed Boutique, 225 East Ponce de Leon Avenue, suite 130, Decatur (404-371-9453 or 3wildseeds.com).

Clutch: How and when did you ladies decide you wanted to open a vintage boutique in this location?
Both of us are thrifty people by nature, so it’s almost natural that we would partner up to open a vintage store, and the location was simply a blessing from God.

Clutch: Tell us about your fashion backgrounds.
Maya: I have always been a buyer & seller of unique finds, and was know in Brooklyn for my vintage shoes where I sold at a small booth on Fulton Street.

LaMonica: I went to school for fashion design in Atlanta, then moved to New York and started styling for Bet J.

Clutch: What are some of the misconceptions you think people have about vintage pieces?
The misconception some people have on vintage clothing is just because it’s a piece from the ‘60s, ‘70s or whatever, they may say ‘it’s out of touch and looks dated,’ but it’s not. These old styles are apart of fashion period and much of the clothing that’s put out now isn’t original, it’s replicated from what our grandparents, parents and others wore when they were bidding styliststa’s. Taking an old style whether it’s an accessory or clothing item and wearing it so that it looks hot is fashion not matter what.

Clutch: How do we if we already own a great vintage piece or if it should just be thrown out? So what are some of your tips on shopping for a great vintage find?
Know what you want, don’t focus on the fact that it’s vintage focus on the fact that it’s a hot piece.

Clutch: How do you guys decide on what pieces you want to purchase?
We basically pull pieces that reflect current trend, bold prints as well as classic items that would never go out of style.

Clutch: So besides all the vintage around here, what are some of the not just vintage things going on at the store?
NJV is a facility for the community where we provide studio space for photographers, classes, events, movie nights, and MoonLight Madness a indie designer flea market held every Sunday @ NJV. NJV also provides wardrobes for indie artist, stylist, and customizes our own one of kind pieces.

Clutch: Who are some of the newer and emerging designers you guys are carrying now?
Right now NJV carry our premium line Criteria Accessories a jewelry line design by LaMonica Peterson.

Clutch: What designers today do you think possess that timeless feel?
Vintage is where it’s at, most designers take vintage silhouettes and rework the clothing, and nothing is truly original.

Clutch: What designers have the most beautiful vintage clutches?
We are not into designers, but the original clutches that we handpick are the hottest designers out now. The modern designers create knock off versions of the original piece.

Clutch: What can we look forward to in the future from NJV and you both?
More community based projects, events, performances, blog, our own custom made pieces, and hot new merchandise for the fall.

Q: Who is behind this gem of a boutique? How long has it been open? Behind the gem is a sister duo, Edwina Ofori,32, (CEO) & Jennifer Ofori,29,(President) from New York. Zhozet has been opened since May 12, 2008.

Q: What made you decide to go with the shop by appointment concept?
We were tired of unpleasant, incomplete shopping experiences. The both of us love to shop but it became more laborious than therapeutic. Unless you are shopping at a high end designer boutique, you can certainly expect to deal with overcrowded stores, long lines, and too many of the same items which unfortunately lead to being at places where 2-3 women are wearing the same outfit. Dreadful at the time, it gave birth to the greatest idea ever ~ a ‘private’ boutique perfectly placed in New York City’s Fashion District offering an exceptional selection of avant-garde ready-to-wear pieces while providing clients with customized, complimentary services only celebrities have been afforded until now.

After surveying hundreds of women and men, we confirmed that our creative minds were not just running wild and that the ‘by appointment only’ concept is precisely what most people do want and deserve when shopping.

Q: How have your customers responded to the exclusive idea?
Our clients absolutely love the shopping experience! They feel special shopping at Zhozet. They enjoy the exclusivity of shopping by themselves or with friends in a private setting, playing with the pieces, having a glass of wine or two, listening to their favorite music and getting the right amount of attention from our style consultant.

Q: Once we make an appointment, what kind of shopping experience can we expect when we walk through doors at Zhozet?
Arriving at Zhozet for your appointment is like walking into Carrie Bradshaw’s closet. The pieces make you feel like you’re re-living your favorite “Sex in the City” episode while the experience is custom designed to your perfection. You and/or a group of friends are welcomed to the visit with champagne cocktails or a glass of wine. As the soothing sounds of Chrisette Michelle, Nina Simone or Estelle (can be personalized to the guests liking prior to their visit) background music is playing, you slip on fashion forward frocks and mix and match pieces to create signature looks. The stylist will give each guest her undivided attention and expertise with picking pieces that fit your style while preparing any item requiring off-premise tailoring.
Ultimately, our clients are extremely happy knowing we have given them the best shopping experience from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

Q: Tell us about some of the up and coming designers and brands that you carry?
We love discovering emerging designers bursting with talent and on the cusp of becoming the next ‘it’ name in fashion. We feature collections by JPJ, Delirius, 2fer and Sumie Tachibana to name a few. Their styles vary from “edgy funk” to “sexy casual” to “timeless sophistication.” At Zhozet, it is easy to find pieces that compliment your mood and personality.

Because we cater to a female that loves her designer brands yet is just as interested in the undiscovered, she may find that Diane Von Furstenberg dress or Anna Sui piece she’s been looking for everywhere.

Q: Becoming a member of Zhozet comes with pretty exclusive perks. How can clients go about becoming members?
Since we do not advertise our boutique, most of our members are either invited, referred by other members, attend one of our events, or read about us online. You can sign up for the VIP list on our website which entitles you to receive emails on new collection arrivals, up and coming designers, “Get the Look”- which details the latest trends, what’s next on the runways around the world and how to style the look of the moment. Members will also be invited to trunk shows and upcoming events.

Upon your first visit to the boutique, we create a client profile where information about style interests, size and personal taste are stored so we can tailor the total shopping experience to your preference. All of our members are VIP and the exclusivity we provide creates that feel.

Q: You obviously cater to a woman who is shopping for something that they won’t see everybody else wearing. What items are your customers gravitating towards right now? Honestly, because our pieces are very flexible and can be taken from day to evening wear, clients gravitate toward an array of pieces at the boutique. All our intricately detailed, cutting-edge jackets for the Spring and Fall are sold immediately. Our signature tuxedo-inspired ruffle shirts are a staple that most of our clients have at least one of. Right now, our dresses with hidden pockets are very chic as well as high waist pencil skirts in sumptuous fabrics that cinch the waist and accentuate every woman’s natural hour glass silhouette.

Q: Do you ever plan to offer the Zhozet shopping experience on-line?
Yes, we do plan on offering clients an exclusive shopping experience online with the same feel and quality service as they would get at the boutique.

Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know about Zhozet?
Zhozet is a by “Appointment Only” enabling us to give our clients the ultimate spree and an unparalleled shopping experience. Appointments can be made on the “RSVP” page. You can find a sampling of the merchandise we carry on the “Lookbook” and “Gallery” page of our website. Add your name to our VIP list so you receive invitations to our upcoming trunk shows and events as well as updates on new collections available at the boutique.

In the near future, we plan on expanding Zhozet to other fashion meccas like Los Angeles, Atlanta and Washington D.C.

Realizing how convenient it is for a stylist to pick up pieces at one boutique for their client or photo shoot, we extend our services to personal shoppers & stylists. We house an array of styles that have versatility and the edge they are looking to incorporate in their project(s).

We are also constantly looking for innovative designers to feature at the boutique. If you are an emerging designer interested, please contact us at info@zhozet.com.

For more information visit www.Zhozet.com.

Q: How did you turn your love for antiques and flea market shopping into a thriving vintage boutique? We read that this venture was five years in the making.
Actually my sister got me into it. I’ve always loved mixing the old and the new together. I own a necklace that I absolutely love from the 1850’s and it just amazes me that something can last that long. I had been collecting for about 5 years, knowing that I wanted to open a store. This is my dream store. I was assistant for television for 15 years and I just wanted to do something that I love. This is really my passion, I mean what woman do you know that wouldn’t want to shop? I get to shop for a living and I love it!

Q: Your shop served as the backdrop for a few scenes in one of our favorite shows, Girlfriends. How did that collaboration come about?
My ex-fiancé was doing a deal with Mara Brok-Akil and he mentioned to her that she should check out my store. She came and loved it and didn’t want to leave, she was here for 2 hours. They called me one day and said hey we want to shoot at your store and I was like sure! It was very unexpected, but I was happy! Then she also did our grand opening party for us, which was very sweet of her.

Q: Speaking of your store opening , there were quite a few star guests in attendance. Do any famous faces frequent your shop?
Now I feel like I don’t want to say because I’ve had quite a few! So, now I’m thinking do I say who comes in here or do I keep it private? Now, I think that I don’t really want to brag about who comes in here. Let’s just say that quite a few celebs shop here.

Q: What kind of items do your customers seem drawn to at the moment?
Python and snake skin clutches, designer jewelry by Chanel and Lanvin. Right now, clutches are the number one seller.

Q: How do you go about selecting merchandise for your shop?
I get merchandise from the antique markets and I mainly get things from estate sales and private collections . The flea market is now last on the list. I shop for whatever catches my eye because you never know what you’re going to find. It’s not like I discriminate with sizes or labels. As long as it’s good quality, I mean sometimes items don’t even have tags in them you can just tell it’s a quality item from the way it’s put together. Everything in the store is something that I would wear. I dress for whatever mood I’m in in the morning. Yesterday I was super girly and today I’m glam rocker chic. Not that I have any jeans and t-shirts in here, but I like to say that we are a funky glam vintage boutique because there’s so many looks that you can put together. Our customers don’t dress head to toe vintage, they really mix it with the new seasonal pieces.

Q: What would you say has been your most amazing vintage find to date?
I think probably an Hermes Constance bag and a Cartier love bracelet. I had to keep that one for myself! It’s really hard to part with a lot of the stuff that I find. I hand pick every single item in this store. I have a lot of great designer labels in here… Gucci, Prada, Dior, Ferragamo, Chanel …..it’s really hard to part with all of them.

Q: How would you describe your personal style?
It’s the same as the description of the store, I dress for whatever mood I wake up in. I like to put opposites together. I might have on a slip dress maybe with a motorcycle vest or boots. Today I have on grey skinny jeans, a torn to shreds vintage Harley Davidson tee, gunmetal bluish t-strap sandals, a crystal vintage rosary, and a super thin Parisian leather jacket. But then, yesterday I had on a green 1960’s slip dress with gold Moschino heels and a laced black shell over it. Then, I piled on a tons of gold and black chains. I’m very eclectic when it comes to getting dressed, but I guess my style can be best described as a little edgy, but still girly.

Q: Are there any style icons from the past or present that you find inspiring?
I love Nicole Richie right now since she totally changed her look with the Rachel Zoe revamp. I know she’s not with her now, but the style she has I love. I like Kate Moss. She has such a unique look without ever trying. I love Sophia Loren and stars glam red carpet looks from back in the day. You know people don’t dress like that anymore! Jackie O. and Talitha Getty also come to mind.

Q: I have a friend who won’t wear vintage because she says it’s wearing someone else’s clothes. What would you say are some of the advantages of buying vintage vs. new clothing?
You either get it or you don’t. Unfortunately, everything is made in China now. Everything is so quick and mass produced, you don’t really get the same kind of quality as you did back in the day. You get more of a unique look when you shop vintage. You can mix it in with some of your newer pieces. I’m not a trendy person, but I do like to follow some of the current styles because they’re fun and I can mix them in with some classic pieces. And again, with classic pieces you may spend a little more but they’re timeless and you end up with things you’ll have forever. Also you can get great labels at a fraction of the cost. Hermes bags start at $6500 and here you can get one for $2800. Here, you can find something unique, funky and edgy that you wont find in the mall it will set you apart from the crowd!

Q: What are your future plans for the boutique?
Well we’re only a year old! We’re celebrating our anniversary soon. I would hope that in 5 years I can expand into a larger space for my ever growing closet as like to say. I just feel like you come in here and you’re in my closet because I love everything that’s in here. So be on the lookout for a bigger Revival!

Visit revivalvintagela.com for more info.

Q:Who is behind Oki styles?
The person behind the Oki Styles is Fela Oki (Owner/Ceo) 25-year-old male from New Jersey and Quinn Clemmons 26 year old male from Virginia.

Q:What inspired you to start the site?
Basically the inspiration came from a business perspective first and blending it with my appreciation for females and their style. I feel the way a female dresses is so sexy! You would think it’s kind of awkward for a “STRAIGHT” male to be launching a female online boutique. Pretty much, I just adore the sexiness and styling of a female, which I feel is attractive. I can always appreciate a female with a natural good sense of style, to me it’s a turn on! Then the concept of it being online came from just considering the most effective way to get it to the masses. What better way than doing it online and marketing.

Q:What are some of your favorite items on the site and why?
All right, I have a few items I’m biased to! I like the Famosa Orange and Blue Pleated Tent Dress! To me that dress is not for everyone, it’s sort of like that vacation dress or dress that’s made for the sun! Then you have the Short trench jackets! I feel those speak for itself, very sleek, it’s classic! Also, there are a few new pieces for the summer that will be on the site soon.

Q:What do you predict will be flying off of the virtual shelves for spring/summer?
The dresses will be a great hit!

Q:Your site features emerging/underground designers. Are there any up- and- comers we should be on the look out for?
I think the Loyal Army line is something refreshing. We have an assortment of the tees and the line is less than three years old, and not many people know about them yet. They make fun graphic animated playful items that will be a great addition to your summer wardrobe!

Q:What kind of customer shops at Oki styles?
Okistyles’ target audience is females 18-30, late teens to contemporary adults who want that club feel, red carpet effect, after work outfit, or edgy street wear! I try to cover many walks of a women’s style. I aim it in that direction because I am fully aware of a female’s shopping habit also.

Q:How would you describe your personal style?
Simple but sexy, sassy, sleek, edgy and very fashion savvy!

Q: What should our readers know about your boutique?
Pretty much, there are many online boutiques available. Okistyles is still at its early stages. You would want to shop Okistyles because we provide that “It” effect that’s undeniable. The styling is unique and there are a wide variety of styles. Most of all, Okistyles.com has that sleek, sassy, sexy feel with an edge.

Click on over to Okistyles.com to take advantage of a total order discount offer exclusive to Clutch readers! Receive 15% off already budget friendly prices by entering the code Clutch at checkout.

Mixing vintage treasures with today’s trends is one of the easiest ways to make your look more special. And while we love the end result of finding the perfect time honored frock, the chase for said piece can be a somewhat daunting task. That’s why we turn to one of our favorite vintage outposts, Rice and Beans Vintage, to make the experience a piece of cake. Owner Sarah Korsiak Cellier specializes in finding items that help you achieve that “what’s she wearing?” look every time.

Q: What’s the story behind the name Rice and Beans Vintage?
The name Rice and Beans Vintage came from a nickname that I was given along time ago, Ms. Rice and Beans. I’m pretty sure it was given to me because of my feisty personality! The name Rice and Beans Vintage is also a nod to my Cuban/Puerto Rican Grandma. To me there could be no better name than Rice and Beans Vintage! Fashion is an outward expression of how you are feeling and can be a great creative outlet. I love walking down the street and seeing someone who looks so good and comfortable with themselves and their style. That’s what Rice and Beans Vintage is all about, taking a piece and making it your own.

Q: How did you start collecting/selling vintage clothing? Is vintage wear something you’ve always loved?
I have always loved fashion, dressing up, and putting together outfits. I started collecting vintage clothing at a very young age. My first piece of vintage was a 50’s red crinoline skirt, like the type Cindi Lauper used to wear. I got my parents to take me to Screaming Mimi’s in NYC when I was about ten to buy it! Now I love to mix vintage clothing with current designer clothing to make my own look. I started selling vintage clothing about 6 years ago and then opened my solo site Rice and Beans Vintage after the birth of my son.

Q: What’s your most treasured find? Did you offer it up for sale or keep it for yourself?!
That’s tough; I honestly love everything that turns up at Rice and Beans Vintage. I have a hard time parting with a lot of the pieces. One of my favorite pieces that didn’t make it out of my shoe collection is a pair of Vintage 70’s Black Gucci Boots that have brown leather on the inside and brass horse bits on the outside of each ankle. You can either fold them over to make a brown cuff or slouch them down. They are perfect and are definitely part of my permanent collection.

Q: Now that everyone’s on the hunt for vintage treasure do you find that good vintage is hard to come by?
I’ve never had a hard time finding vintage treasures. It seems like I might have a sixth sense for it! I’m glad people are out there hunting for vintage, it’s great that so many people appreciate vintage fashion and are taking style into their own hands.

Q: Can you share a bit about the process of shopping for clothing for the site?
Shopping for Rice and Beans Vintage is one of my favorite things to do. I have a variety of places and people that I gather my inventory from which are all so different and amazing. Finding vintage and designer clothing for Rice and Beans Vintage is all about the hunt. I really just go in with an open mind and look for things that I like, pieces that reflect today’s fashion trends, clothing that is classic and will stand the test of time.

Q: Do you have any shopping tips for newbie vintage collectors?
Buy what you love! Don’t get caught up on the designer or what other people are wearing. Just go with what jumps out at you and buy what you love!

Q: How do you decide what merchandise to offer on your site?
I hand pick every piece at Rice and Beans Vintage so every item is something that I love and think is special. I read tons of fashion magazines every month and try to stay on top of what is in style because I know that is important to a lot of fashionistas out there! Although I carry a lot of vintage designer and current designer clothing, shoes, & accessories, you won’t find a piece there just because it is designer. It has to be a piece that is going to translate to 2008 and it has to be chic.

Q: Designers often look to the past in order to design for the future. Do you have a favorite time period/era for clothing?
I have so many favorite time periods, but right now I am into the flowing dresses of the 70’s. Not the polyester kind, but the sheer, gauzy silk dress with the Indian prints.

Q: Is there any trend from the past that you would wish to resurface?
Freezy Freaky Gloves! Growing up on the east coast we obviously had cold snowy winters and as a kid I loved my Freezy Freakies. They were those gloves that looked just like regular gloves until they got cold and a picture would magically appear. They should definitely bring those back! I also love jumpsuits, which I’m happy to say Versace has brought back this year.

Q: Can you share any future plans for Rice and Beans Vintage?
I’d love to work with more stylists, magazines, and artists to bring Rice and Beans Vintage to another venue.

Besides that Rice and Beans Vintage will continue to offer an amazing selection of handpicked vintage and designer clothing, shoes, & accessories!

Recieve 10% off any item or your entire purchase at Rice and Beans Vintage by entering discount code CLUTCH at checkout. This offer is valid for the entire months of March & April! Head on over to riceandbeansvintage.com.

Welcome to a world that has “where’d you get that” items in abundance and a posh interior that’s as inspiring as the tightly edited clothing lines it houses. Welcome to Kush, a boutique owned and operated by L.A. style maven, Angilina Everett. We interviewed to the head fashionista in charge to discover more about the ins and outs of this shopper’s utopia.

Q: What’s the story behind Kush Boutique?
I’m a fashion design graduate creating employment for myself. Designing is a very competitive field in LA, it’s about who you know first then what you know. I designed corporate for 10 years with various junior contemporary lines and got burnt out. I managed a boutique by my house in the valley and decided that I want my own boutique…my hustle to one day provide backing for my life long goal and dream of having my own clothing line

Q: How did you come up with the name?
Being corny and listening to slang in hip hop songs. I thought it was a cool name, catchy, and easy to remember. I wanted a name that wouldn’t get boring too fast or something that I wouldn’t get tired of hearing over and over again.

Q: What are some of your favorite brands/designers in the store and why?
Diables and La Rok-for being design driven. Their pieces are so well thought out through design and quality with amazing fabrics that compliment most women. Also, Eclipse Jeans are my favorites!!!!!!!! They’re the only jeans, even amongst all of the obvious name brands, that blew out of my boutique and they’re a new denim brand. The jeans are soft and have subtle details that makes them different with a sexy fit. Women on a whole are sick and bored of denim, but customers had to have Eclipse jeans and are still requesting them.

Q: How do you decide what merchandise to carry?
Research, Research, Research.

Q: What do you predict will be flying off the shelves for spring?
Dresses and blouses.

Q: Is there product at your store that we would be hard pressed to find anywhere else?
Eclipse jeans.

Q: What do you feel is your boutique’s niche?
I keep my clothing line selections very tight because I hate boutiques that have a lot of clothes but have nothing to choose from. I’m very selective and minimal with each line and customers love the fact that they love everything because it’s thought out.

Q: What kind of customer shops at Kush?
Boutique lovers….Young and mature women that look for fashion. They are not mall shoppers.

Q: How involved are you in the everyday operations?
All day everyday I’m at the store working. I need to know my customers and pay attention to their likes and dislikes in order to grow, gain knowledge and buy the right clothing lines for the store.

Q: How would you describe your personal style?
Eclectic…I get bored fast so it’s constantly changing and getting older also helps to dictate that change.

Q: What would you like our readers to know about your boutique?
I’m a female black-owned boutique in Beverly Hills.

Q: Can you share any future plans for Kush?
Look out for more boutiques to open, a clothing line and I’ll also be working as a personal stylist for a few television shows.

For more information visit www.shopkush.com

Sangaree offers an alternative to the ordinary shopping experience by highlighting a plethora of exclusive domestic and international talent (see breakdown below). Couple that with a carefully edited product assortment and you have a must-see shopping destination. “At Sangaree, we carry carefully chosen designers, most of whom are internationally based and/or born. In an effort to embrace the great work of local talent, we also feature local jewelry designers Julie LoRusso and Sissy Yates.” Designs by Lisa Ho, an Australian designer whose collection is a favorite among the jet-set, and Mexican born, L.A. based Louis Verdad, whose designs you won’t find anywhere else in the D.C. area, are among the many gems that one can find at Sangaree.

Visit www.sangareeboutique.com or stop by their brick and mortar location at 3288 M Street, NW, Washington DC 20007.

How did you come up with the name ‘Sui generis’?
I guess you can say words are one of my not-so-secret fascinations because dictionary.com has been emailing me the “word of the day” daily for the last few years. I’m sitting at my 9-to-5 one morning, checking my email, and the word of that particular day is a Latin term—Sui generis. When I discovered the meaning: unique, being the only example of its kind, in a class of its own, it was a BOOM moment; the name of my vision along with the premise of its existence was born. I knew that sui generis was the perfect name to represent what I sought to create.

When did the boutique launch?
sui generis boutique launched on Halloween, October 31 in 2005

What’s the story behind Sui generis boutique?
I always knew I wanted to own and run a business. There was no better time than when I found myself as a painfully disgruntled corporate employee. Punching the clock for the rest of my life just couldn’t be my reality so I decided to put my business plans in motion. I looked to create an antithesis to mainstream stores that offered racks and racks of identical items in different sizes because I haven’t met a girl yet who wants to bumps into someone with the same outfit as her. I wanted to feature keenly hand-picked vintage and new items that appealed to today’s fashionista.

So my target is those everyday fashionistas with a sick, individual sense of style; her style is broadly influenced and she loves to put her own twist to her wardrobe. She doesn’t necessarily avoid trends but she’s going to rock it with her own signature appeal. The everyday fashionista is committed to staying fabulous but still has those everyday bills. We want to look good but that car note and mortgage/rent payment still needs to be paid. So we keep our prices at a moderate price without sacrificing quality.

Do you have a physical store location as well?
I’m working on it! God willing, I will have a physical location in the D.C. or metro Baltimore area within the next couple of years. Stay tuned.

What differentiates sui generis boutique from other vintage boutiques?
sui generis boutique is all about the eclectic fusion of fashion. I use the word fashion a lot about but we’re really focused on style. It’s a thousand fly styles out here—so no need to put yourself in a box and limit your options. Wear what you like, how you like—just wear it well. We’re all about mixing—vintage with new, flashy with conservative—which is why we offer new flavors along with vintage flavors.

We hand pick our vintage gems with today’s fashionista in mind. I think vintage is to be appreciated by all and my goal is to present it in a way that maintains its relevance to the modern day fashionista.

Also, in an e-world of no-refund policies, suigenerisboutique.com is proud to offer a reasonable return/exchange policy. This gives our clientèle the comfort of being confident in their purchases. Domestic S&H is also free on purchases over $100.

What kinds of items do you carry? (i.e. dresses, clutch bags.)
We have it all. You could cover your entire outfit within the pages of suigenerisboutique.com – from tops, to bottoms, to your shoes, to your accessories—some vintage, some new.

Do you have a celebrity clientèle?
Kelis LOVES suigenerisboutique.com. No, I’m lying—I mean she might but I have no viable proof. I have no celebrity clientèle to report on other than the fabulous local celebrities that you find gracing the streets, supermarkets, and subways in cities within and outside of America.

Why should our readers check out your store?
Because we’re fly!

We’re a mom-and-pop shop and we offer fly items at reasonable rates. The risk of finding someone with the same item is rare. We sell one of each item; once it’s sold, it’s gone.

What are your future plans for Sui generis ?
First things first is a new and improved suigenerisboutique.com. I will relaunch the site within the next year with an explosion of more items—vintage and new—with a particular focus on fly vintage pieces. The site will be updated regularly and will be an overall more fabulous site.

A physical location, as mentioned, is also a future plan.

I’ll continue to mingle as a creative director/stylist/consultant for fashion shows and shoots. Lastly, I’m flirting with the blog craze—I may develop a fashion related blog of some sort. It’ll have to be something special though, since they’re everywhere I want to make it stand out or I might as well not bother.

Overall, aiming for nothing less than extraordinary, so I’ll keep challenging myself with new ideas to expand and perfect the business.

Can you offer any tips for newbies who are trying to buy quality vintage pieces?
My short and sweet tip is if you like it grab it.

Otherwise, vintage is special because it’s just that—vintage! Unless it’s marked as deadstock (an item manufactured but never sold) it has been worn, so reasonable wear is to be expected. In general, the same discerning taste you show in shopping for modern clothing should be applied with vintage clothing. Inspect your item and don’t shy away from asking questions. You’d want to avoid anything with dispicable odor that may not go away with a visit to the cleaners. You’d also want to avoid anything with severe stains—these too may not go away with a trip to the cleaners. All items on suigenerisboutique.com are carefully chosen. Rest assured, we won’t sell anything that isn’t wearable.

Also, sizing in vintage terms is a lot different than modern day terms. Vintage sizing is a lot smaller than contemporary sizing so don’t be discouraged if you can’t wiggle your modern day 4 frame into a vintage size 12. That’s actually not so different than shopping today store to store. You can walk into one store and be a solid 6 based on the fit and walk into another store and need a 10. So don’t get wrapped up into sizes—if it fits, it fits, despite the digits on the label. On my site I try to be as detailed as possible on the size to help the potential buyer determine if the item will be a good fit. I encourage buyers to ask questions on my site; I embrace emails with questions on items and sizing. Lastly, some may disagree, but don’t be afraid of a little alteration with your vintage items. Invest in a good tailor who feels comfortable with vintage alterations and let them work their magic to get it perfect for you. This individual should be able to tell you the garments alteration potential; what can and cannot be done.

Ready to shop? Check out www.suigenerisboutique.com.

Along with an impressive list of mens and womens collections, N also carries goods for the home, and a recently unveiled urban luxe line of fragrances, accessories, and music. And what fashionista doesn’t love the VIP treatment? Personal shopping services include at-home (or work) wardrobe consultations, car services to and from the store, an on-site tailor, and an outdoor space for parties, events, or just to show off your new looks to fifty of your closest friends. N Harlem, 114 W 116th St. between Malcolm X Blvd (Lenox Ave) and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd (Seventh Ave) New York, N.Y. 212.961.1036; online at nharlemnewyork.com.