I see more and more promotion of farm-to-fork; buying local seasonal foods, sometimes from small farms.  Indeed, the fresher, the better when it comes to fruits and vegetables.  And clothes. 

Fresh Fashion is Always in Season

While I have yet to think of a catchy term, the concept of buying local and fresh is relevant to clothing.  There is no better place to do that then in local boutiques.  Frequently, people avoid boutiques out of concern that the prices are much higher than a chain store in the mall.  This is not the case.  In addition, local boutiques are one of the best ways to support local designers and find new trends.
One favorite is Cecilia Boutique in Mission Hills, San Diego.  This is where you go when you want looks that are fresh, hip, and unique.  The interior of this shop is your first indication of what you can expect.  The décor is airy and bright and at the same time comfortable.  The laid-back atmosphere is great for looking through the racks of clothing.  You won’t feel pressured, crowded by staff, or like you aren’t allowed to touch the clothing; browsing is encouraged. 

Make yourself comfortable. Make yourself stylish. Lounge at Cecilia Boutique.

 The clothes range from casual items to night-on-the-town smart.   I was smitten with stand-out pieces like the tulip skirts and cropped jackets with high ruffled collars.   I love that Cecilia Boutique can carry items with high impact and drama.  That is something that makes shopping here fun.  In comparison with shopping at the mall, it can be like the difference between eating canned vegetables versus fresh produce. 

A wardrobe without accessories is like a cupcake without frosting

Cecilia boutique carries a full range of accessories which can be a great way to jazz up your wardrobe.  You will find jewelry, belts, purses, and hair accessories.   Take your staple skirt and blouse into a new dimension by adding a belt on top, pulling your hair back, and adding a hair band that has a colorful broach on the side.  You can quickly take something from tired to inspired using accessories and ideas from Cecilia Boutique.

Of note is that owner Elizabeth Leffler-Agia works to find local designers to carry in the store.  This includes lines like Bcat Threads – a San Diego designer with a notable perspective.   Why should that matter to you?  If you have ever left a chain store feeling like their ‘look’ didn’t match who you are or that none of the cuts flattered you, it is time to pay attention.   Independent designers can take risks that mass retailers cannot.  This means that you are more likely to find pieces and collections that resonate with you than you are in a store that must take a more homogenized approach to fashion. 

A favorite store and dream closet in one

And cuts?  It is a similar principle.  Mass retailers target the most average of body types to maximize sales.   With an independent designer – particularly one that is local – it is not out-of-the-questions to ask about having that amazing skirt you see made in a slightly longer hem length for you.  Granted, this is not always possible, but with an independent local-designer, there are situations when your request can be accommodated.
In addition to carrying local designers, Cecilia Boutique carries a weighty list of brands that that you won’t find everywhere, such as Big Buddha bags and Corey Lynn Calter.  And the sticker shock that keeps some people away is more urban legend than truth.  While there are a range of items and thus a range of prices, generally speaking boutiques can offer bargains in a few ways that other stores cannot.  First, don’t assume that everything is extremely high priced – you will find a variety of price points in Cecilia Boutique, and all for items that will offer serious return on investment for your wardrobe.  Second, when boutiques put items on sale, they provide a significant discount.  As a boutique needs to make space for the next season, they mark items down and you can pick up amazing bargains.  (Whereas many large scale chain retailers ship last season’s items to discount retailers).  Third, many boutiques offer special events for customers.  Cecilia Boutique hosts some amazing customer appreciation events – so make sure you register on the mailing list.

Independently Fashionable

Independent boutiques and designers can only survive with support. Cecilia Boutique is an example of the enormous value an independent boutique can bring to a neighborhood economy.  A neighborhood or city with a thriving design market can attract fashion tourism, which creates economic benefits beyond the boutique (restaurants, lounges, hotels, etc.).   During Mission Hills Nights, Cecilia Boutique stays open late so you can shop in the evening, and stop at a local restaurant for dinner or drinks. 

I can’t think of a better way to helpstrengthen the local economy – shopping local and looking great.