Having owned a local retail store before becoming a fashion consultant, I know how frustrating it is not to be able to predict revenue. Retailers shouldn't have to consult The Old Farmer's Almanac, but in Seattle, the weather is a selling factor. If spring weather is drippy and cold, customers aren't willing to buy summer clothes. If it's too sunny, Seattleites take to the hills and the beaches to enjoy the heat while they can. Once the city has a full week of nice weather, Seattleites will finally commit to the idea of a warmer weather wardrobe, and spring and summer merchandise will start to move. Mother Nature has been pretty fickle this year, which led me to wonder how local boutiques are doing these days, especially in the face of our current economy. The answer? Apparently not bad. In May, we saw Nordstrom trying to stimulate sales revenue by moving up the start date of its Annual Half-Yearly Sale. Not so with the smaller boutiques. It seems they will be banking on local street fairs, warm weather, and a fun yet practical selection of merchandise to make it through the summer months. According to the boutique owners and managers I spoke with, sales are marginally down from two years ago. Considering the dreary weather and the economy, it's good news to be holding steady with last year's sales. The boutiques also reported that their customers are still buying, but making much more thoughtful decisions. Summer David from Canopy Blue in Madison Park reports that this year its clientele are less inclined toward impulse buys and are putting more thought into their purchases. Linda Walsh from Clementine in West Seattle said, "I have been talking to people about a change in spending habits. Seems that many of us are shopping more strategically, picking up an accessory to update an outfit, rather than buying an entire new outfit. But we're still shopping. There will always be a wedding, a trip, a graduation — occasions for which we are willing to search for just the right thing, and willing to pay for it when we find it." Suzy Fairchild of the Frock Shop in Phinney Ridge has noticed her customers are stretching their dollars by looking for multiple use items, such as clothing that doubles for day and evening wear. So, what are people buying? Here're a few of the bestsellers so far in 2008:
- "Antibes" sandal by Accessorie, $348, from Clementine
- Revival Ink printed hoodie, $45, from Frock Shop
- "Jasper Tunic" by Seaton, $198, from Canopy Blue
