Survival of the Fittest: Darnice Harris of @Studio615Boutiq by @beastinheels
The business world is tough. The fashion industry is fickle. While many boutiques are opened across the nation, only a percentage survive and flourish. Nashville is no different. Boutiques catering to every type of individual have opened in the city in the recent years and only the most business savvy ones become a successful longstanding operations. Among the fittest stands Studio615 owned and operated by Tennessee State alum Darnice Harris. Having started Studio615 soon after her graduation, Darnice has managed to run a successful boutique for nearly a decade. MCM chatted up with her on her lessons and success secrets in industry survival.
What inspired you to start a boutique?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit with an interest in clothing and fashion. I started the boutique a year after graduating from Tennessee State University.
Where do you find your pieces and what inspires your choice selection?
I attend various markets and trade shows. I pay close attention to current trends and gravitating towards the demand of the customer. I follow trends from New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Atlanta since they are usually ahead of the trends in our area. I also go for designs that are wearable. Many looks seen on the runway are not wearable for daily looks and my goal is to provide wearable looks.
Describe the Typical Studio615 customer
I wouldn’t say that there is a stereotypical Studio615 customer; they are fashion forward in a wide variety of age groups.
What sets your boutique apart from the competition?
I am heavily involved in customer service. I try to give the customer exactly what they are looking for. I also adapt to the changing climate with customer demand.
What is your opinion on the Nashville independent boutique and fashion scene?
I think it is great. I think it provides more options for the population and better for retail
What is the best business move you ever made for Studio615?
The best move was changing the location from Demonbreun to West End and the use of social networking.
What is the worst business move you ever made for Studio615?
Anything. I have made my share of mistakes over the years from money to employee choices. I will say that the worst decisions made by business owners in general is having unrealistic expectations, and not willing to sacrifice.
What is the one thing every business owner should have?
Be prepared for any situations and be ready for the challenge. Be knowledgeable and work hard. Any business owner should be willing to sacrifice their time and resources, provide customer service, and sacrifice themselves for the business
Do you have any future plans for Studio615?
I definitely want to improve our company website and our involvement with the community. I want to definitely make use of the growing popularity of social networks for advertisement.
Any fall fashion predictions/trends?
Ethnic/tribal prints, earth colors, orange, kelly green, menswear, high color shoes, menswear inspired clothes, platform shoes, band bold jewelry
What is Darnice’s personal style?
My main idea is comfort while being trendy so I will call is functional cute.
