Why Shop Boutique?

 When you think of the mall and shopping, you probably think of all of the basics–Forever 21, H&M, or PacSun. Your mind completely skips over the smaller local boutiques and shops. Yes, these bigger chains offer great prices and styles that everyone is wearing, but there are so many reasons why you should consider trying to shop boutique.

What is a boutique, you ask? Boutiques are small specialized retail stores. They range from selling children’s clothing, to furniture, to footwear. Boutiques have smaller inventories and are run by small business owners rather than large corporations. Here are three reasons why you should shop boutiques!

Unique and Quality Styles

When you shop at a chain, you’re buying styles that people across the country are also wearing. When you shop boutique, you get hand-picked products that are higher quality and unique to that store. Because boutiques carry a smaller stock than big-box retailers, they’re able to keep up with the latest trends as they switch out inventory more frequently. This also provides opportunity for the customer to give feedback and suggestions on items that they want to see at the boutique! You'll find unique dresses, tops, sweaters, and everything else that no other shop will have.

Personal Relationships and Connections

One of the best perks of shopping at small boutiques is the personal relationships that can come of it! There’s an opportunity to meet the owners behind the business and to hear their story. Since boutiques usually get less foot traffic than larger retailers, the employees really get to know their customers and develop relationships with them. They’ll know your likes, your dislikes, and your personal style, making it easier to find pieces that you really love.

Supporting Local and Small Businesses

When you shop at a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance! Shopping at big retailers supports a corporation, while a small business purchase helps individuals pursuing their dream. Smaller businesses also provide unique shopping experiences and tend to be more focused on great customer service.

Shopping at boutiques also helps your local economy! Local businesses pay taxes to your local government, while big businesses contribute almost nothing to the local economy. Small, local businesses also create more than half of the jobs in the U.S. while bigger retailers usually outsource a lot of their employment overseas.

Next time you head out shopping, shop boutique! Who knows, you might even find your new favorite place to shop! There are also a ton of great online boutiques worth checking out if you would prefer to do all of your shopping from home.