In the heart of Manhattan sits a little shop called Boutique on 57 ran by a business owner who knows that shopping is not just about buying things, it is about the experience. Kasia Bosne is the epitome of a clever retail business woman who understands that creating a treasure trove of high end inventory is only part of the job. Offering stylist services, events, pampering, and truly developing meaningful relationships with her clients has become Bosne's mode of operation. In Boutique on 57, shoppers will find the best quality, designer garments at competitive prices, but Bosne's positive energy filling the store is what keeps her clients coming back for more.
Tell us about Boutique on 57 and what inspires you about the inventory you choose?
I believe 99% of success of every business is selecting right merchandise at the right time with correct variety and quantities to satisfy customer.
I need to visualize how each garment is going to look like on the floor, and how it's going to relate and appeal to my clients. Each selection I make I always picture with the perfect match of a particular client's style preferences. Furthermore, I need to do financial forecast, understand the market and foremost consider my customers needs.
What made you decide to open your own designer boutique and how did it all begin?
I developed love and passion for fashion at an early age. It was my hobby since I was a little girl dressing my dolls. I decided it would be so great to make a career out of this hobby. Upon my arrival to the US, I attended Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in NYC majoring in Marketing and International Trade as well as Fashion Buying Merchandising.
Then I continued my interest in fashion with experience at Giorgio Armani and Gianni Versace flagship stores in NYC where I developed a long list of celebrity clients. I loved dressing women, connecting, inspiring, and servicing them the best I could. After 10 years of experience with top designer fashion houses, I decided to challenge myself and grow my career further. I opened my own private showroom/boutique called Boutique on 57 about 5 years ago. I collaborate with top designer labels of women's ready to wear, and accessories overstock.
Where do you find such wonderful inventory and how do you keep your prices so competitive?
The fashion industry rapidly changes every day, every season. The competition is fierce. That's why it's critical to be very creative, current and follow market demands. I have been fortunate to develop great relationships with women's luxury, most sought-after labels of ready to wear showrooms in Italy and France.
My favorite is Brunello Cucinelli, Dolce & Gabbana in Florence, and its neighbor Valentino. Because they feel like my second family they always offer me special pieces that were presented during their annual catwalks in very limited editions. My expertise is to buy smartly in order to offer my clients the best possible savings. I purchase end of seasons' overstock and samples offering savings of up to 75% off retail.
You offer styling services and even host in-store events from time to time. What kind of experience can the clients of Boutique on 57 expect?
Special events are my favorite part of this business. They let me reach out to other entrepreneurs and we collaborate together in magnitude. I have recently teamed up with "Over 40 females" group organizing Shopping and Pampering Extravaganza. We also partnered with Natura Bisse and Bergdorf Goodman, Bliss spa, Eiji hair salon, Trish Mcevoy makeup where shoppers at Boutique on 57 were getting facials, makeup applications, massages, manicures, hair styling, fashion tips, special shopping discounts and our biggest attraction of the day- our incredible goodie bags.
Can you give us your top 3 styling tips?
I am all about making things simple. Living in the fast paced NY city with zero time to spare most of us prefer uncomplicated styles, great easy practical timeless choices that pack a punch and provide that essential blueprint for pulling favorite pieces together in a fresh way.
I believe it's important to invest a little more into a quality, classic designer handbag like Chanel, Gucci, or Hermes while enjoying Boutique on 57's discounts and special offers. Also a classic pair of leather heels is a must. The higher the heel the slimmer you will look. The same goes for the clothes that should skim your body. Choosing the right silhouette-age appropriate, flattering color, and style is essential to find the right fit/angle that works best with your body type. Clothes shouldn't pull nor cling on you. To minimize a tummy bulge, look for tops and shirts with a wide band at the waist or choose Spanx to smooth out all imperfections.
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