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Catia’s Alterations is in a new location and has a new word to add to the store’s title — boutique.
Catia Vinci began her alteration shop along Washington Road in 1998.
“It was supposed to be a hobby, but guess what, my first day, I had 25 people in the door,” Vinci, who is originally from Brazil, said.
Three months ago, Catia’s Unique Boutique opened in a new location at Hillcrest Plaza (1417 Washington Road).
Last month, Vinci added designer clothes, purses, shoes and boots to her business.
“I decided to do the boutique because I saw how much people struggle. They don’t have much option,” Vinci said.
Now, Washingtonians can get high-end designer clothes from places such as Italy, Hong Kong and Spain.
Vinci, who loves to travel, goes to many of these faraway places herself to bring unique items to her store.
“I’m trying to bring things we don’t have here and things that are new,” she said.
Vinci showed a pair of Roberto Cavalli slacks from Italy. The slacks are usually $500, but are marked $289 at Catia’s.
There were several Esprit pants and shirts in stock. This brand, Vinci said, is big in Hong Kong and New York.
For those shopping, Vinci says, “If you like something, you better get it because it’s not going to be here later and you’re not going to find someone on the corner wearing the same thing.”
The clothing line at Catia’s will change, but at least two things will remain constant — uniqueness and quality.
As Vinci showed several purses from California and Paris, she remarked about their quality, things like soft leather, hand stitching and intricately-designed hardware.
“I got a little different (items) because I don’t know what people will like yet,” Vinci said.
In addition to the high-end fashions, there is also one consignment rack with affordable everyday wear.
Vinci said she will be very selective when choosing consignment clothes, but added she is currently focusing on formal dresses for proms or weddings.
“It’s a great way to recycle those dresses in your closet. You don’t wear them twice,” Vinci said.
For jewelry lovers, handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces made in America are offered. Vinci said she will add more jewelry from California at a later date.
Other accessories for sale are scarves and ponchos.
Vinci modeled a reversible poncho and talked about the new Infinity scarves she carries.
Catia’s Alterations is in a new location and has a new word to add to the store’s title — boutique.
Catia Vinci began her alteration shop along Washington Road in 1998.
“It was supposed to be a hobby, but guess what, my first day, I had 25 people in the door,” Vinci, who is originally from Brazil, said.
Three months ago, Catia’s Unique Boutique opened in a new location at Hillcrest Plaza (1417 Washington Road).
Last month, Vinci added designer clothes, purses, shoes and boots to her business.
“I decided to do the boutique because I saw how much people struggle. They don’t have much option,” Vinci said.
Now, Washingtonians can get high-end designer clothes from places such as Italy, Hong Kong and Spain.
Vinci, who loves to travel, goes to many of these faraway places herself to bring unique items to her store.
“I’m trying to bring things we don’t have here and things that are new,” she said.
Vinci showed a pair of Roberto Cavalli slacks from Italy. The slacks are usually $500, but are marked $289 at Catia’s.
There were several Esprit pants and shirts in stock. This brand, Vinci said, is big in Hong Kong and New York.
For those shopping, Vinci says, “If you like something, you better get it because it’s not going to be here later and you’re not going to find someone on the corner wearing the same thing.”
The clothing line at Catia’s will change, but at least two things will remain constant — uniqueness and quality.
As Vinci showed several purses from California and Paris, she remarked about their quality, things like soft leather, hand stitching and intricately-designed hardware.
“I got a little different (items) because I don’t know what people will like yet,” Vinci said.
In addition to the high-end fashions, there is also one consignment rack with affordable everyday wear.
Vinci said she will be very selective when choosing consignment clothes, but added she is currently focusing on formal dresses for proms or weddings.
“It’s a great way to recycle those dresses in your closet. You don’t wear them twice,” Vinci said.
For jewelry lovers, handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces made in America are offered. Vinci said she will add more jewelry from California at a later date.
Other accessories for sale are scarves and ponchos.
Vinci modeled a reversible poncho and talked about the new Infinity scarves she carries.
The scarf is one piece and can be worn around the neck or shoulders.
“I have to educate my customers,” Vinci said of the new items she brings to Washington.
Vinci said she thinks a high-end boutique will go over well in Washington.
“Now they have to go to Chicago or New York to find something different,” she said.
But, not anymore.
Now there is a one-stop shop in Washington where customers can make a purchase and get 60 percent off of their alterations.
For more information, call Catia’s Alterations & Boutique at 444-4031.
Store hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
