Honey
The Pink Zebra Boutique
What inspired you to start your business?
At the time when I first tapped into the fashion market 10 years ago it was very “safe” I wanted to offer something a bit more risky than what was being offered. Something fun! Eye catching! Something that would make you question “Hey, where did you get that from?”
What is it about the retail business that you enjoy the most?
I enjoy taking a collection of individual products and putting them together to create a masterpiece of work for my clients. You can see the satisfaction in their eyes as soon as it all comes together !
Who did you know that was in this business before you started your business?
There was a local neighborhood business where my parents shopped for a few clothing items here and there owned by this gentlemen. He was always so friendly. He possessed the perfect combination of lax and assertiveness. I was intrigued by his salesmanship even at a young age. He definitely inspired me.
How does the fashion industry play a role in your business?
The fashion industry is constantly changing. New trends. New “it products” being released. I have to stay abreast [of] what’s in demand and supply the consumers. I never want to be a step behind.
Where do you find the influence that speaks to the product lines you carry?
Every item in the boutique is an indirect representation of me. The fabrics, the colors, the style. The pink zebra boutique is my little muse.
How would you describe your product mix?
Simply put I like to say it’s “Funky.Hip.Chic.” Something for everyone!
Describe the type of person that should patronize your business.
The woman who’s looking for that little black dress, but with [an] edge. Yes, she loves The Pink Zebra.
What are some of the special requests you get from customers?
Nowadays we live in a custom-made apparel era. The women and girls come in with photos of items and want things they’ve seen made by popular Instagram designers. It’s my job to search my vendors and find items similar and get it to my clients! [There is] a lot of research and homework done behind the scenes.
Fashion says what about a person?
Fashion says how daring a person is. How much style you have. Anyone can put on a dress or a pair of heels or ripped jeans but it’s about how you wear the item and not how the item wears on you.
How often should someone add to his or her wardrobe?
Constantly! There [are] always staple pieces that need to be added and rotated. Those pieces will never go out of style.
How important are accessories?
Accessories are the cherry on top to any look you wear! A fashion must-have.
What role does color play in creating a mood with attire?
What you wear should reflect how you feel at the moment. If you want that extra pep, wear bright colors. Feeling sultry and sexy — you probably will end up in darker tones. Flirty, you’ll gravitate toward florals, patterns and flowy items.
How do you keep up with the fashion world?
There [are] a ton of fashion magazines that are always circulating on my desk. In my profession, I like to take it all in with a hawk’s eye in order to stay in the fashion loop of things.
What major markets do you travel to when looking for products?
I like to frequent the traveling fashion exhibits throughout the U.S. It is there that designers and exhibitors showcase their product to buyers such as myself. It’s a playground of fashion.
What are your favorite fashion and styles markets and why?
I enjoy the apparel and shoe markets. They are my absolute best and most favorite items to shop for. I’m literally like a kid in a candy store.
Name the top three celebrities whose style you appreciate and why.
I appreciate the versatility and class that Charlize Theron offers. Gwen Stefani is another. Her ability to play with prints and bright colors is very appealing. Lastly, I appreciate the relaxed and sophisticated fashion sense of George Clooney. Always the dapper and confident man he is.
Three reasons to come visit your store?
Aside from the unique fashion finds you have to come and check out the decor of The Pink Zebra Boutique. Everything from the zebra stripe painted walls to the white Italian glass chandeliers and the 10 feet tall dressing rooms. Everything’s grand. You will also appreciate the friendliness of our staff. We pride ourselves in superb customer service.
