Always looking for online shopping that is unique and not overwhelming with too many choices, we recently researched two sites:
The first is Ellie Kai, an online boutique that promotes custom designed clothing. Now that was intriguing to say the least, but what exactly does it mean?
It turns out that the company was started about four years ago by a Bostonian who was at the time living in Hong Kong. It is there she came up with the concept of custom designed clothing.
In the land before time, remember Savile Row where gentlemen had their suits custom made, and where clients’ measurements were kept on file.
Fast forward to today where there is now the Ellie Kai online custom site for women. You send them your measurements and it appears that in some places there is a stylist who works with you. So far so good. And their products are vertically integrated meaning they control the process from material through design and fabrication.
Ellie Kai’s mantra is transparent sourcing, a fair work environment and limited production waste which is all good news and we like them for their thoughtful approach to the fashion industry. It means no overproduction and waste, which is one of the challenges facing the fashion business today.
We were ready to shop here but were disappointed by the fact that the site looks tired and not up to date. The clothing was spring not summer or looking into fall. The site says to email and they will respond and no one has to two emails. And we did not see any designs that were special or unique or something we just had to have.
We were disappointed because we liked the concept and we always want to support women in the industry. But something is missing at the design level. So we will take a pass but invite you to take a look and see what you think:
https://www.elliekai.com/collections/womens-tops/products/favorite-button-down
The second site we looked at for online shopping is boo gemes, which is includes a delightful collection of fun clothing for all ages. The website page describes its purpose:
“boo gemes is a distinctive lifestyle brand that is dedicated to today’s modern woman. The collection embodies the personal style and spirit of its founder, Boo Thayer Gemes. Perceiving a void in the market for fun, stylish and affordable separates, Boo has created a collection that appeals to women of all ages.”
Look good on size 0 to 14 really!
We like the fact that this site includes women of all ages and we think Boo has successfully managed to do this. And it is a tricky concept to find clothing that works for young and grownups at the same time. Boo built her business through trunk shows that she continues to do throughout the summer.
We like her jeans and cashmere sweaters, and her linen shirts. The tunic boyfriend shirt is great and can be dressed up or down with jeans or white pants. The trunk shows we have been to are great. The webpage leaves a little to be desired in terms of really seeing product. It appears that the models are friends and family and not professional so the products can look a bit used in the photos. The clothing is not cheap but we think worth it. We have shirts and jeans that are over three years old from her and they are still great and fun. Take a look and let us know what you think: http://www.boogemes.com/
Enjoy whatever you wear! Lucy and Claudia