The Fast Fashion industry is something we should avoid and we should try to shop locally instead.
If you live in the Bay Area, you should check out Isabella Boutique in Sunnyvale, California. I had the opportunity to talk to the owner of Isabella Boutique, Rosimeire Osorio, and got to find out the background of her boutique!
Rosimeire started her boutique in 2004 but she originally designed her own clothes called Isabella Romantic Wear in which she sold at Art and Wine festivals. She also used to sell gypsy, flowy clothes at renaissance shows. However, she started Isabella Boutique because she has always been in the clothing business since she was a little kid and her whole family was part of the fashion industry. She was originally a hairdresser but grew up in the fashion industry which made her want to start her own boutique.
Rosimeire described the clothing sold at Isabella Boutique as, "one of a kind, hand made loungewear." She also said that they sell, "comfy weekend wear, fancy dresses, and vintage, classic clothes." The age demographic of her clientele ranges from 20-year-olds to 45/55-year-olds. The clothing is also sold mostly in person! The location for Isabella Boutique is: 152 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Unfortunately, COVID has impacted many local shops including Isabella Boutique. Before COVID, Isabella Boutique used to have tea time, host fashion shows, and even do wine and cheese. Rosimeire talked about how people are not buying much anymore due to COVID. This is one of the reasons why we should shop locally!
As you can see, many local businesses need some support during this pandemic which is a big reason why we should shop locally rather than at fast fashion companies.
Also if you want to learn more about fast fashion, check out my other posts!