In the luxury retail business, you need trained, confident professionals who combine a passion for style with impeccable customer service skills to create a shopping experience that is as valuable as the products they sell. As a luxury retail consultant, Alina uses her strong background in the fashion industry, having graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, and her engaging, bubbly personality to create a fun, welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back. Learn more about Alina, a sales team member, and her experience at Couture in the latest installment of our Couture USA profile series!
What prompted you to join the Couture USA team?
I have been shopping designer resale for as long as I can remember. When I moved to Florida and found Couture, I was blown away by the quality and selection compared to the stores in Manhattan. When I decided to pursue a career in sales, I knew I wanted to sell Couture’s enviable, ever-changing inventory.
Who is your favorite designer?
Cristobal Balenciaga. Now I like Simone Rocha.
How would you describe your style? Are there any designers that inspire you?
I would describe my style as fun and sexy. I try not to take myself too seriously and always have fun when I dress. Right now I can't stop buying Cavalli and I'm always obsessed with Galliano's Dior from the early 2000s. I get more inspiration from classic films and 60s rock 'n' roll than from specific designers. Anita Pallenberg is my ultimate style icon.
Follow Alina on Instagram @alinaatcouture Stay up to date with all the latest products hitting stores before they hit the website!
What do you think is the most important factor in providing customers with a great shopping experience?
I think it all comes down to consideration for each customer leaving the store with something they like. It’s important to listen to everyone and take the time to get to know them so I can use my product knowledge to recommend the perfect item.
What are the most popular shopping or fashion trends among customers these days?
I would say that monogram prints are really coming back, especially at Fendi and Gucci. Sneakers have been popular for quite some time, and my customers are now opting for smaller bags instead of big totes.
What is the most important lesson you've learned working in fashion retail?
Most of us don’t have the budget to buy everything we love (which can be hard at couture!), so invest in things you wear every day, like handbags and jewelry. The right handbag will last for years and retain its value, and jewelry will make every outfit in your wardrobe pop. Remember, you can get a lot more from couture before you pay full price.
Scroll down to shop Alina's favorite items!
What do you like most about your position?
I love seeing women finally buy the items they’ve always wanted and the things they thought they couldn’t afford! We receive new items every day, so it’s always exciting to see what comes in and try to find the perfect home for each item. It’s really great when you receive something that a particular customer will be happy about.
How do you build and maintain relationships with your customers?
We work in a small, intimate boutique and get to know our customers really well. I think they appreciate my honesty because I want them to feel like they are shopping with a friend, not a salesperson behind the counter. In my experience, it is important to sell the customer the item that fits their wardrobe perfectly, not everything.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in fashion?
Be prepared to work hard, but always have fun and don't be caught up in trends. ~ too Seriously.
Shop Alina's favorite items here:
- Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Sugar Stack Necklace
- Chanel Vintage Chain Shield Sunglasses
- Louis Vuitton Serise Zippy Wallet
- Gucci Tiara Mini Bamboo Top Handle Bag
Gucci Dapper and Bomber Jacket