Wear This Not That Introducing THE FINICKY FILLY in Charleston, SC | EP 205
Welcome back to the Fashion Crimes Podcast, the best fashion friend you never knew you needed!
In this vivacious episode, we continue our series celebrating the flair and entrepreneurship of women-owned fashion businesses in Charleston, SC.
This week, Holly chats with the dynamic Kilby Bronstein from The Finicky Filly, nestled on the historic King Street—a hotspot for fashion and creativity.
Dive into Kilby's fascinating journey into fashion retail and how she brings a unique style to Charleston's charming streets.
NOTE: Be sure to follow along on YouTube this week, to see Holly’s exclusive in-store interview and the styles you need to know at The Finicky Filly!
Key Episode Highlights:
• The Origin Story:
Kilby delves into how she unexpectedly became a fashion entrepreneur. After her father's passing, she returned to Buffalo and was presented with the chance to purchase her former employer's fashion store and the building it was housed in.
She and her mother seized this unexpected opportunity, transforming it into Half and Half, a boutique that caters to women of all ages, emphasizing a mother-daughter shopping experience.
This store laid the groundwork for her venture into Charleston's fashion scene.
• Adapting to Charleston’s Market:
Kilby discusses the strategic shift required when she took over The Finicky Filly in Charleston, emphasizing the different fashion preferences between her clientele in Buffalo and those in Charleston.
She adapted to local tastes by sourcing unique, southern-inspired collections and introducing lines not found in other local stores, thereby setting The Finicky Filly apart from the competition on King Street.
• Fashion Trends and Customer Engagement:
In Charleston, Kilby focuses on offering attire that appeals to a “daughter to mother to grandmother “ demographic, with special attention to creating stylish, comfortable, and versatile pieces that cater to women over 40.
She shares specific fashion challenges her customers face, like the need for dresses with sleeves, and how she curates her collection to meet these needs.
Kilby’s approach goes beyond just selling clothes; she builds relationships by understanding and responding to the unique wardrobe problems of her clients.
• Cultural Fashion Influences:
Kilby is excited about incorporating fashion lines from Latin America into her Charleston store, highlighting how these pieces bring vibrant patterns, exquisite craftsmanship, and a fresh perspective to her boutique.
She mentions specific countries like Brazil and Colombia, noting their burgeoning fashion scenes and how these styles resonate with Charleston’s climate and fashion sensibilities.
• Building a Fashion Community:
The discussion also covers how Kilby fosters a community through her boutique by ensuring every client feels seen and valued.
Whether styling someone for a European vacation or a local wedding, she and her staff strive to make fashion a personal and enjoyable exploration for each customer.
Kilby’s emphasis on personalized service helps transform first-time shoppers into lifelong patrons who feel connected to The Finicky Filly’s community-oriented shopping experience.
Thank You Note:
A heartfelt thank you to Kilby for joining us on this fashion journey and for sharing the rich narrative behind The Finicky Filly.
Her dedication to enriching Charleston's fashion landscape and supporting the stylish needs of women over 40 is truly inspiring!
Listen Up!
As we continue our series on women-owned fashion businesses, we're reminded of the profound impact passionate entrepreneurs like Kilby and the super-hot fashion scene in Charleston can have on local cultures and economies.
Remember, whether you're revamping your wardrobe or seeking that perfect outfit that breaks all the molds, the Fashion Crimes Podcast is here to keep you stylishly in the know - and out of the fashion police's reach!
Keep tuning into the Fashion Crimes Podcast, your ultimate guide to navigating the fashion world with flair and fun, because here, every episode is a step towards being your most fabulous self!
Be sure to SUBSCRIBE, download, like and share the FASHION CRIMES PODCAST wherever you get your podcasts, follow us on social media, and watch us on YouTube.
See you next week! Byeeee!
- Holly Katz
Your Favorite Personal Stylist