Of course, the community has been incredibly helpful when it comes to the store; Ms. Steib commented, “I liked Hermann because of the small town feel, but I wasn’t getting a lot good feeling of the business community (in the city). We have our business up there also, but down here, everybody seemed very welcoming. More so to help new business owners than I was receiving up there, so I felt like it (New Haven) was a good place to be.”
Ms. Steib understands that women, from a size 0-24, have a hard time trying to find clothing that fits properly, and it can really affect a woman’s self-esteem. “I want people to have a good variety in here. I want people to come in here and be able to say, ‘She has size 24 pants and those are really cute and affordable!’”
The store takes donations, as long as the condition of the items is good. Ms. Steib says she hasn’t been too picky with the clothes as to what brand they are, just as long as they are not stained, torn, or have holes. Although, she will be more particular with bags, since women are known to go for designer bags. The items that won’t sell will be donated to a domestic violence shelter.
The shop has come a long way, but there is still some more work to be done. Ms. Steib plans to have mannequins placed along the stairs, wearing the latest fashion, or even a wedding gown. Since the store use to be “a year round Christmas store,” as Ms. Stieb described it, she hopes to cover the Christmas design. She is also planning to do something to make the ceiling more appealing, like the now pinkish-colored walls. Dressing rooms are being built, and they are big enough for multiple people to fit into, in case a woman has brought her children.
This trendy spot is located at 117 Front Street and is open on Sundays and Wednesdays from 11-5, Friday and Saturday 11-7:30. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings may be open by appointment only.
-Paige Adams