Award winning boutique Elaine Curtis is celebrating a milestone decade in business this coming September. With 10 successful years under her belt and multiple awards including ‘Image Magazine’s Boutique of the Year 2009’, Elaine Curtis clearly has a winning formula. We caught up with the Carlow native for a cuppa…

The boutique is celebrating 10 years in business this month, where did it all begin?
I opened the store in September 2001 following my previous incarnation as a fashion designer and really it was a natural progression for my in the business.

What did you want to be growing up?
I always liked the idea of being a shoe designer.

What was your big break?
Winning the Late Late Show Fashion Awards for Knitwear in 97. I had just set up my business and it was a big deal back then.

Two adjectives to describe your own style?
Probably Classic but I love a quirky edge.

Today I’m wearing…?
An silk blouse by DVF & slim cut trousers from Sonia by Sonia Rykiel. My Shoe boots are by Malene Birger

Style or Trends?
To quote Yves St Laurent ‘Fashion fades but style is eternal’

Who are your style icons?
The Golden Oldies…Marlene, Lana, Greta etc. They had no stylists!

Favourite trend this season?
I love the glamour of the 40’s; a big trend this season I’m happy to say.

Favourite beauty product?
Tinted moisturizer with spf by Dermalogicia

Can’t live without…?
A healthy breakfast.

What’s a typical day?
Honestly, no two days are the same. At the moment it is particularly busy. We are currently designing an online shop which we are launching in September. It’s a very exciting development for us but an enormous amount of work. We are also planning our forthcoming fashion show for Sept 14th which sees us celebrate our 10th year in business. Meanwhile all our gorgeous new AW deliveries are arriving daily which also thankfully keeps our customers coming in. Throw in a few buying trips on top of all of that and you get the picture.

Toughest part of my job?
Aside from juggling the above……..it has to be the dreaded sums!

Friday night treat?
A glass of wine at Home

Your perfect weekend is…?
A weekend off with my family.

Last time you laughed out loud?
With my brother David, he has a brilliant sense of humor and tells a great joke.

What’s on your iPod?
I don’t have one but I swear I’m down with the kids!

What advice would you give anyone trying to break into the business?
Work hard and be prepared for hard work.

If you could write your ideal job description, what would it be?
I couldn’t be more fortunate in with my current job description; it’s a job that I love and have a passion for. I am privileged to work with fantastic girls who have been with me for a long time. Together we have a great dynamic.
My working life wouldn’t be the same without them.

The 10 year celebratory fashion show takes place Wednesday September 14th at 7.45pm in Dinn Ri, Tullow Street, Carlow. Tickets are €25

For more contact Elaine Curtis Boutique 122 Tullow St. Carlow, Ireland.
www.elainecurtis.ie or Tel 059 9141790

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