Shop Proprietress, Meghan
What does La Quaintrelle
mean?
A quaintrelle is defined as “a woman who emphasizes a life of passion expressed through personal
style, leisurely pastimes, charm, and cultivation of life’s pleasures.” The
best thing about a “quaintrelle” is that any woman is able to be one. I believe
that creating personal style is much more important, and true to one’s self,
than attempting to, perhaps, conform to a latest trend, magazine spread, or
what’s on a big-box mannequin.La Quaintrelle focuses on this idea of personal style, and each item is hand-picked so that they are unique in design and have some feature that is “enchanting”, whether it’s the fabric, buttons or belt detail. They’re chosen this way because I believe each and every one that’s selected is a something that helps someone better express who they are and feel comfortable while doing so. It’s very interesting, and fulfilling, to see people of very different backgrounds, sizes, tastes and ages come into the shop and find something they love and that speaks to them.
How did La Quaintrelle
begin? What was your inspiration?
The idea of La Quaintrelle came to fruition from
my own difficulty in finding clothes that I really liked and wanted to wear. I
was often unable to find anything at a mall or outlet store that I felt fit my
personal style, and I soon began looking elsewhere – online, family closets,
and vintage stores – for pieces to incorporate into my wardrobe. I soon
realized that this was an opportunity. It was an opportunity to help others
with the same problem and to infuse something new and different into the local
market. 
What’s your favourite
fashion era?
My favourite era lies
between the late 40s, into the 50s. I like the 40s’ structure in coats, suits
and blouses, but I also love the fun and flirty that came in the 50s in skirts
and dresses.
What are your goals for
your shop/what would you like to see happen in the next few years?
2012 has been pretty exciting so far! I’m excited every day, of course,
to watch the business grow. I am working with a few brides-to-be on their
weddings in 2012. I will also be partnering with a few local businesses for
several events this spring. A line expansion may also be in store for La
Quaintrelle in 2012.
On top of La Quaintrelle, I work full-time in public relations. I also
love living an active lifestyle and find myself training for various running
races. I’m looking at completing my first marathon in Fall 2012! When I layer
on quality time spent with family, friends and my boyfriend, the hours tick
away pretty quickly! I tend to pile a lot on the plate, but luckily, it hasn’t
toppled over yet. :)
Of course, my biggest dream is to have the shop grow and grow and grow.
It has already expanded much faster than anticipated, but if I could eventually
work La Quaintrelle full time it would be lovely! I say bring it on. :)
What is a go-to piece
that you think every girl should have in her closet?
A pop of red – red
shoes, red leather gloves, red lipstick – whatever you please! (though not all
at the same time) Red is always in
style, and you can instantly, and effortlessly, turn an ordinary outfit fun
with just a slight hint of bright red! Plus, I think it gives you a extra boost
of confidence - and sass. :)
How do you select items
for your shop (what is your process etc)?
La Quaintrelle focuses on this idea of
personal style, and each item is hand-picked so that they are unique in design
and have some feature that is “enchanting”, whether it’s the fabric, buttons or
belt detail. They’re chosen this way because I believe each and every one
that’s selected is a something that helps someone better express who they are
and feel comfortable while doing so. It’s very interesting, and fulfilling, to
see people of very different backgrounds, sizes, tastes and ages come into the
shop and find something they love and that speaks to them.
Are there any spring
trends that you love/are going to incorporate in your shop?
There’s a wide range of influences in our
upcoming pieces – from gardens, cottage, natural history, handmade, and
designer vintage. Keeping in mind our focus on personal style, rather than
fashion, we’re taking these themes and incorporating them into what our
customers love to see. Lately, we’ve introduced longer lengths and conservative chic.
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Thanks so much for Meghan, for sharing a bit about your adorable little shop! I'm excited to see it grow!
And from now until April 19th, you can receive a 15% discount with the following link: http://www.laquaintrelle.ca/?code=delicious
Make sure to visit the online store at www.laquaintrelle.ca and to like the shop on their facebook page here!
Yay I'm going to check it out!
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