A boutique is a specialised retail store serving a niche market selling a wide range of items – from clothing and food to jewellery. These shops are usually within the facility of a high-end chain store or a luxury resort to cater to upscale clientele focused on personalised service. They carry a limited inventory of branded clothes, accessories, and other luxury items to give an air of exclusivity.
These days, a clothing boutique is focused on selling only clothing apparel and accessories. They offer alternative fashion wear to consumers, minus the elitist price tag since they are produced in larger quantities. Unlike a clothing store, a boutique keeps a limited inventory of specialised selection for their clientele.
What classifies a store as a clothing boutique?
- Definition
A clothing boutique is a small shop which sells personally chosen clothing, footwear and accessories with more personalised service. In contrast, a clothing store sells a larger volume of all types of regular clothing and may include makeup and hair products, food, body, and bath items.
- Size
Store size can give you an idea of the business. Clothing boutiques are usually located inside big retail stores and occupy smaller space than a regular clothing store. In some cases, the boutique inside a big clothing store sells high-end brands of their clothing apparel, footwear and accessories. Due to the magnitude of its mass-merchandised goods, a regular clothing store occupies a bigger space to accommodate the assortment.
- Ambience
Owing to the quaint small size of clothing boutiques, the stores easily keep to their charming and personalised ambience while clothing stores appear neutral and detached. The in-store display plays a significant role in the customers’ shopping experience. Boutiques usually have a specific image and identity, which are considerably different from the regular clothing store. They create a stage that urges customers to move around, linger, explore, and eventually purchase. Some boutiques even offer coffee and tea to complete the experience.
- Product Variety
Clothing stores may carry various items, from makeup, hair products, to even food. Boutiques focus on clothing apparel and accessories. Since these boutiques cater to a niche, their inventory will usually be based on their market demand – personally chosen brands and niche-style clothing and accessories.
- Customer Service
Without a doubt, a clothing boutique takes the cake when it comes to paying attention. Nothing will beat the personalised service of a boutique. They bend over backwards to serve and please their clientele, starting from the minute a client enters their boutique to the time they leave the store. A good boutique trains their store personnel when to approach a client for assistance and when to give the client some space to look around.
Though, a client must understand that these elaborate care and attention do not come free of charge. It comes with your bill. On the other hand, a clothing store will allow you to move around, check on any clothing item, and get things off the rack to fit. You may approach any store personnel should you need any assistance.
Conclusion
The customer’s buying experience is the most important factor for repeat business. Boutiques have elevated this experience to a whole new level. This business model spells quality, style, value, and sparkle.
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