When it comes to shopping for clothes, there are two main options: big-brand stores and small, specialty clothing stores. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, but there are a few reasons why one should consider working with a small specialty clothing store instead of a big-brand store.
Personalized service. It’s one of the biggest advantages of shopping at a specialty store. When you shop at a big store, you’re just one of many customers. The sales associates are more likely to be focused on making a sale than on helping you find the right clothes for your needs. After all, they may never see you again. At a small specialty clothing store, customer service is the key to success, the differentiator. The sales associates are more likely to take the time to get to know you and your style. They can guide you through finding clothes that fit well and flatter your figure, even if fashion isn’t your thing. Indeed, they can offer advice on how to put together outfits that look great, which in turn will make you feel confident in professional and social settings.
Unique selection. Big-brand stores tend to carry a limited selection of clothes. They’re more likely to stock clothes that are popular and trendy, but they may not have the unique pieces that you’re looking for. Specialty stores, on the other hand, often carry a wider selection of clothes from a variety of designers and some pieces you might not have known existed. This gives you more options to choose from and makes it more likely that you’ll find the perfect clothes for your needs.
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PERSONAL TOUCH: Small clothing stores have some advantages over larger retailers. Pictured is Marc Allen Fine Clothiers on South Main Street in Providence.
COURTESY MARC ALLEN FINE CLOTHIERS[/caption]
Supporting local businesses. When you shop at a small specialty clothing store, you’re not just supporting yourself, you’re also supporting a local business where the owners and staff live in and care about the community. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they play an important role locally. When you shop at a small specialty clothing store, you’re helping to keep your community strong.
Better-quality clothes. Small specialty clothing stores often carry clothes that are made from higher-quality materials and construction. This means that the clothes will last longer and look better over time. That can lead to less spending in the long run.
If you do decide to visit a small, locally owned clothing store, here are some tips before you go.
Do research. Before you go shopping, take some time to research the stores in your area. Read online reviews and see what others have to say about the stores. This will help you narrow down your options and find the best store for you.
Be prepared to spend more. Clothes from small specialty clothing stores are often more expensive than clothes from big-brand stores. However, the quality of the clothes is usually much better, so you’re getting more for your money.
Be patient. It may take some time to find the perfect clothes at a small specialty clothing store. The selection is often smaller than at big-brand stores, so you may have to do some browsing. However, the wait is worth it when you find the perfect piece of clothing.
If you’re looking for clothes that fit well, flatter your figure and make you feel confident, then you should consider shopping at a small specialty clothing store.
Marc A. Streisand is the owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers in Providence.
