Nicky boy for 36 boutiques

1.)   What inspired the concept, 36Boutiques

·         The inspiration was the result of so many factors. These included the proving of the business model in the US and Europe, the willingness on the part of Naspers/MIH to engage with the fashion space through the private event retailing model. The increasing exposure of South African’s to the international market, through the opening up of trade channels. The peak in our global tourism had an influence at the macro level too.

The recession also had an impact, as the consumer’s money spending patterns were changing too. This budget hitting has resulted in people seeking a far greater intrinsic quality in their pursuit for value for money. I think ultimately the time was right for someone to come along and move the industry forward at the speed of social media.

2.)   Life before 36Boutiques?

·         I was living in the melting pot of Jo’burg and working in fashion for Busby House. I often think back to the time before this rollercoaster ride began and how everything that happened in my career was ultimately about the lead up to the 36Boutiques experience. The move to Cape Town wasn’t easy, as I had established myself socially and professionally over the period of a few years in Johannesburg. Moving to Cape Town meant having to reestablish myself, find home and rekindle old friendships, but the silver lining is the opportunity to be close to my parents, who live in Somerset West. I love Cape Town, it really is my favourite city to live in. I am someone who feeds off of my environment. The beauty of Cape Town and its people inspire me every day.

3.)   What does your typical day consist of?

·         I wake up early and hit the gym with my trainer. This normally energizes me and gets me to the office where I have a cup of coffee waiting or sometimes I take a quick walk to our local coffee chop, Bread, Milk & Honey. Once I have my email box checked out  I deal with the priorities and meet with my team, before I move into a series of meetings with potential brand partners and business support functions where we develop the business’ strategies . Energy permitting I try to end the day with a yoga session or quiet dinner with friends.

4.)   Listening to?

·         I have a fairly broad taste in music, but right now I have Bon Iver, The Black Keys, Elliot Smith and Kings of Leon on my iPhone and in my car

5.)   Favourite designers

a.)   Local

·         I try not to have favourites, but some of the perennials that you will find in wardrobe would have to be Stephania Moreland,  Klûk CGDT and Marion & Lindie. These brands have formed an integral part of my personal style over the years and I count myself fortunate to have had access to them, and their inspiring designers, in my personal and work lives.

b.) International

·         I am very fond of the Iberian brands out of cities like Barcelona, as well as the Far Eastern inspired designers from cities like Hong Kong. One of my favourites has to be the Italian brand Bottega Veneta. I am also fond of some of the more mainstream designer brands, from Zara and Country Road to Ben Sherman.

6.)   Where do you see 36Boutiques in 5 years, anything else up your sleeve?

·         I see the business and our offering developing along with the needs of our members. We would definitely have extended our categories into a broader beauty, décor and lifestyle space. More importantly I see the business as self generating, where we are not only playing a part in developing young talented designers, but breaking them for the first time. I am excited  by the potential of the business and the very real chance we have to do something completely game changing in South Africa’s fashion industry . I also believe that we will continue to push the boundaries of online shopping through embracing the many new and exciting developments in the ICT sector

7.)   What’s in your handbag?

·         Ha ha… no big secrets there! I always seem to have bottle a of water in there. I normally have my purse, my iPhone, a multifunction item of clothing such as my wrap from Kluk CGDT and a touchup makeup bag for those last minute meetings and social engagements. I carry my Macbook wherever I go too, so I try to keep my handbag volume to a minimum.

8.)   How many pairs of shoes do you have?

·         I am sad to admit that I don’t keep count. If I had to guess I would say anywhere up to a hundred pairs, but that would include everything from my Havaianas to my Gucci heels. I am an investment purchaser and seek out quality over quantity in all my clothing and shoe purchases.

9.)   Favourite fragrance

·         I love the subtle patchouli and woody notes of the Clarins Eau Dynamisante Eau de Toilette, which because of its essential oils, and skin softening properties you can blend with just about anything. It makes a wonderful gift for any woman and is unlikely to clash with what you are wearing. Today, I am wearing Prada.

10.  )Which designers can we expect to shop next on 36Boutiques

·         In the next few weeks will be bringing our members a host of brands, all of which have their own very distinctive style. These include South African favourites Thula Sindi, Darkie and Alexandra. We are also lucky to be hosting our second 7 for all Mankind boutique and the European styled Carhartt men’s & women’s boutiques. At the risk of sounding clichéd, there really is something for everyone.

You can see expect to see lots more of 36 Boutiques right here. What an exciting concept! Thanks Nicky for sharing your dream with us!