(Photo credit: Dana Williams)
Rolling out had a wonderful opportunity to sit down with Kiwi’s Boutique owner, Chiquita White, who had the pleasure of hosting Chicago Fall Fashion Week’s events. Check out the interview.
What makes Kiwi’s Boutique different from other boutiques?
We cater to women of all sizes and we cater to women who are more conservative and sophisticated, but edgy and funky. That’s what makes us stand out to our customers. Our current demographic consist of women ages 30 to 60 years old. They’re our primary goal.
What does it mean to you to have been in business for nine years?
It means grace and mercy. It means your willing to change things up in the middle of the race when it doesn’t go in the direction that you thought it would. You also have to have an open mind and continue to educate yourself, while building those relationships with people in this industry.
What are the most difficult problems you’ve encountered over the years?
Part of it was really finding my niche and the financing. Because, when you’re a start-up business a lot of people don’t know that banks really don’t fund start-up businesses. So, basically you have to use your own funds to get started. People really don’t understand that for every dollar you spend you have to match it. Also, for me I needed to learn how to find clothing and fabrics that fit for my clientele. I was literally in the beginning stages not knowing anything, this is why education is such a key essential. But, once I had a handle on all of those things, I became more substantial and successful.
What additional advice would you give to other business owners?
I would say get educated and to try to get a mentor. Mentoring is just as important because you’ll be able to confide in someone and get your questions answered. So, many people have that misconception that once they get the doors open to their businesses, that people will just start running in. Of course, that could happen but realistically speaking you have to be strategic and just try to stay stable and still satisfy your customers on a budget.
How do you think the Chicago fashion industry is evolving?
I would say it’s drastically changing. A lot of styles that were relevant back in the 1970s are all coming back with a little twist. They’re creating fashionable pieces that cater to women of all sizes. There’s something being created for everyone and that’s what I’m excited about.
I remember when I first started there wasn’t any variety for women that had more of a curvaceous body shape, but designers are now stepping outside of the box and following along with the trend.
Any final thoughts you want people to know about Kiwi’s Boutique?
I want people to know that our clothing is affordable and designed with the woman in mind. When we select fashion to be housed in our boutique; we do not see color or race. We see you! Women that just want to look beautiful for all occasions.
To find out more about Kiwi’s Boutique or to see some of their designs, visit www.kiwisboutiqueinc.com
– dana williams
