Fashion Forward: Diane Burke of Diane's Fine Fashions

"There’s never been a better time in fashion to be your own person, than now."

So says fashion maven, Diane Burke, retailer, finishing her 11th successful season at Diane’s Fine Fashions at the Village on Venetian Bay.

Attributing her success to a team effort with her husband Pete, a partnership which she describes as one in business as well as life, the fit and savvy business woman knows the retail clothing industry and knows what the discriminating Neapolitan woman looks for in fashion.

Carrying better goods from women’s tops, sweaters, dresses, slacks, skirts to belts, Italian hand bags and jewelry, the boutique shop is impeccably maintained to reflect the quality of the pieces she hand selects for living and socializing in our resort area.

And, with personalized service, a sincere greeting upon entering the store and expert guidance, her business is thriving. We chatted with Diane to find out more about her own fashion philosophy and about what works for her loyal clientele.

The Journal: Tell us about your personal sense of style.

Diane Burke: Although once a brunette, I have allowed my hair to go white, which my husband likes. My coloring favors the winter palette so I am drawn to black and white, and I accent my wardrobe with hot pinks, reds and bright green hues. Since my customers often admire and want the outfits I wear in the store, I wear what’s current in my shop. I find that one’s style changes as one evolves as a person. These days, I am fond of knits, more so than cut and sewn pieces.

TJ: What have you selected for your photo shoot?

DB: A black and white, all cotton knit pique with side pockets and dolman sleeves. I am wearing comfortable wedge shoes and may wear a Tahitian pearl necklace set in diamonds given to me by my husband. Pete is wearing a St. Croix knit shirt, black slacks and a black and white checkered sports coat. He loves to shop at Mondo Uomo, also at the Village on Venetian Bay.

TJ: Are knits popular with your customers as well?

DB: Yes, they are our top sellers. Today’s woman demands comfort and ease of wear and care. Knits are easy to pack, travel well and can go from day to dinner and still look fresh. We have exclusive rights to the top quality, Joan Vass label. We also carry Belford clothing and Lisette pants, with whom we are on a VIP ship program for new fabrics and style, as well as Andolossi, handmade Italian handbags and Sandy Duftler belts.

TJ: How do you choose fashions for the inventory and for your customers?

DB: In general, I carry better goods selected from the Dallas market, which carries the best and latest in Los Angeles and New York fashion. I select pieces that are geared for our winter residents in particular, age 50 and over and for several older customers in the eighties and nineties who are still socially active. For customers who ask for our help, we take into consideration their age, hair color and skin tone and size. It depends where a woman wants the focus; it is like styling a room. You determine one focal point rather than many and work around it. It is important to listen to the customer and provide feedback they can trust. The happiest customers are those who allow us to assist them. One time, a redheaded customer emerged from the dressing room and asked how a dress looked on her. My husband, who has a wonderful sense of humor and great rapport with our customers replied, "Wow, that looks great with your hair." "Well," the customer replied, "that’s subject to change." It broke up the entire store; his learning curve spiraled ever since.

TJ: Do you emphasize trends?

DB: Ours is a classic look, but there is always room to keep fashion moving forward. If you don’t want to follow a trend wholeheartedly, you can incorporate it in some way, either through using a pattern in a clutch, hand bag, shoe or belt. If a woman does not want to embrace new fashion trends, then she may as well shop in her own closet. You can’t get caught up in a trend that is not age appropriate.

read more details on http://maddisone.dentistserver.com/2015/06/12/fashion-for-peace-oklahoma-citys-jewel-runway-show-to-promote-peace-through-business/

This blog aims at sharing some information about wedding dresses and dresses.