brandhabit's interview with
Sydney Michelle Balboa Island

Q: What one word best describes your store?
A: Stylish

Q: What three words best describes your customer?
A: Confident, Fashionable, Sophisticated

Q: What makes your store different from the rest?
A: We cater to the individual. Personal attention like no other combined with a warm and vibrant environment allow our customers to feel at home. Our customer service goes above and beyond as evidenced by our loyal clientele.

Q: Name one person you would love to dress:
A: Gwen Stefani- her essence is that of the Sydney Michelle woman. Fashion-forward with a balance of edge and grace.

Q: What article of clothing have you kept forever and why?
A: The Bryant Leather Hoodie by Mike & Chris. The leather gets softer every time I wear it, the craftsmanship is incomparible and it holds many priceless memories.

Q: Finish the following sentence: In fashion, it is most important to be...
A: yourself. Fashion is the best way to show who you are.

Q: If you did not pursue a retail career, what would you be doing?
A: Traveling the world as a photographer.

Q: What is your current fashion fixation/fetish?
A: Skinny jeans paired with Fiorentini & Baker boots and a tunic.

In Sept. of 2002, LA native, Courtney Ellis quit her job as manager of LA's prestigious boutique Yellow Dog, packed her bags, and traveled south to take So. Cal's exclusive Balboa Island by storm. Nearly 6 years later, Sydney Michelle has become one of the areas top fashion destinations; showcasing a wide range of casual chic couture, versatile items that can be worn daily or dressed up with just a change in accessories.

Combining over 15 years of retail experience, an educated fashion sensibility and her understanding of customer needs, Ellis set out to create an environment shoppers couldn’t get enough of. She wanted Sydney Michelle to be a one-stop shopping experience that provided quality merchandise and personalized service in a comfortable setting. She seamed to know what the elite area was missing and it didn’t take long for Ellis and Sydney Michelle to develop a loyal following of island locals, dedicated Los Angeles clientèle and seasonal visitors from across the nation.

While the store is always stocked with a solid selection of popular staples (James Perse, Juicy Couture, Nation LTD., Puella And Rebecca Taylor; Ellis makes a point of balancing the basics with up and coming designer collections. Lines such as 3.1 By Phillip Lim, Catherine Malandrino, Development, Vivenne Westwood, Mint, Manoush, Cynthia Vincent, YA YA, Mimo, and Harkham have all appeared on Sydney Michelle’s racks long before fashion magazines and major department stores featured their items. In addition to women’s apparel the store carries handbags, shoes, and accessories. Sydney Michelle also features a Bath and Body Bar where one can customize their own scent. The wide range of items makes it nearly impossible for even the most fickle shopper to leave empty handed.

Sydney Michelle reflects Ellis’ passion and vision and like its owner is constantly evolving. It is her innate ability to forecast trends and her dedication to providing customers with the highest quality of service that set hers apart from other boutiques in the area. Courtney Ellis’ fashion insight is constantly in demand as she is frequently solicited to style celebrities for events, magazine cover shoots and music videos.

Located at 307 Marine Avenue, Sydney Michelle is three stores in one: the quaint original storefront, a larger space right next door, and a lounge located in the upstairs suite, which is available for private shopping and events.
Come See What All Fuss is About!
Check out our Press page on our website at www.sydneymichelle.com.
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