Behind the Seams - The #1 Question I Get As a Boutique Owner

Greetings Wishies💫 and Happy Monday!

When people discover what I do for a living, I almost always hear the same question first: "Where do you get your clothing?" 🤔 It seems that there's a common misconception that I'm not just a boutique owner but also a clothing designer and seamstress as well. I. Cannot. Imagine. 😂 While I appreciate the flattering assumption that I possess the diverse talents of sketching designs, sewing garments, AND running a boutique, this is not the reality for me or most boutique owners I've encountered. Instead, think of me as Fashion Curator, tasked with meticulously sifting through an extensive array of clothing and accessories to select products that I think my customers will want to purchase. Yes, simply put, I pick out clothing & accessories for a living - but there's definitely an art to compiling a collection that's appealing to your ideal customer and skill set involved in selecting the "right" items - those products that are unique, stylish/trendy and affordable (if that's your thing) and that of course, sell. 

Many people are surprised that we carry some popular brands you might already be familiar with, such as Kan Can, Cello, and Risen jeans for example. In additional, I’ve found other brands we carry in larger department stores like Nordstrom and Von Maur and popular retailers like Dry Goods and The Buckle. I’ve also scoured the internet for a unique piece I sourced that I can’t find anywhere else mainstream or at another Boutique, which is always super exciting! 🤩 And if you're ever on the hunt for identical styles, take a peek at our dupes, where you might find something strikingly similar (or even identical but often much less expensive). For example, the following:
Theirs/Lulus - $103 - Won Your Heart Sage Green Midi Dress
Wish Upon - $64 – Mint Delight Lace Midi Dress 

Wish Upon’s Top 3 Clothing and Accessory Sources:

1. *Fashion Trade Shows – trade shows give boutique owners and retailers a firsthand look at upcoming trends and new designs and allows for us to physically see and touch the items before purchase. These 2-3 day shows allow designers/brands/manufacturers to showcase their latest products and seasonal collections a few times a year. Some of the larger and most popular trade shows in the US are held in Dallas, Atlanta, Las Vegas, New York and Nashville but likewise, there smaller shows and much larger, worldwide events, as well.
2. *Wholesale Markets – some of the most prominent (and permanent) fashion districts are located in New York, Los Angeles, Miami/Miami Beach, Dallas and Chicago, just to name a few. These markets host various trade shows, events and ongoing showrooms year-round. They are the top locations in the US for designers, manufacturers and wholesale buyers alike.
3. *Online Wholesalers: Welcome to the convenience of the Digital Age! Many boutique owners utilize online wholesalers, such as FashionGo, in part of their overall buying strategy. These platforms offer convenience and a wide selection of products, making it easier for boutiques to diversify their inventory at the click of a mouse. It's also a testament to how technology is revolutionizing the sourcing game, especially after the industry had to adapt during COVID when trade shows ceased to exist.

*there is a specific set of requirements and paperwork that needs to provided by each retailer in order to purchase from wholesale sites, attend trade shows etc. Access is not available to "regular" consumers. 

In wrapping up, I hope this peek "Behind the Seams" in the world of boutique sourcing has been enlightening and interesting, even if you're not a fashion expert. It's a bit like the hidden magic that makes your favorite boutique feel so special.

If you ever have any specific questions that you’re curious about, please don't hesitate to reach out or drop a comment!

Love and Light,
E