A conversation with Leslee Korff, President and Owner
- What sets Serenella apart from other stores?
- I am a visual person, and my store has to look perfect. When I buy a collection, I always imagine how I'm going to merchandise it. When vendors come, I have to touch the fabric, I have to make sure the colors match, I take pictures of everything. But when people see the store, they get it. With the vision of all the wonderful designers behind me, I'm creating the Serenella woman.
- Define the Serenella woman.
- She is intelligent, she's modern, she knows her fashion. She knows what she likes and what looks good on her. And when my customers are not as fashion-focused, they put themselves into my hands. They appreciate what I do. And if something doesn't look good on them, I'll say 'no.' I'm not just selling.
- What is the store’s buying philosophy?
- It’s based on many factors, from trends, to our designers’ collections, to instinct, to, most importantly, our customers’ desires. We really try to buy with our customers’ wants and needs in mind. We are always moving forward to keep our clients modern and chic.
- What stable of designers do you carry?
- Ready to Wear: Adidas by Stella McCartney, Aberto Biani, Boy by Band of Outsiders, Blumarine, Daniela Corte, Genetic Denim, Giambattista Valli, J. Mendel, Kaufman Franco, Lucien Pellat-Finet, Massimo Alba, Moschino, Narcisco Rodriguez, Roberto Cavalli, Roberto Musso, Savario Palatella, Sophie Theallet, Thakoon, Tomas Maier, Tuleh, Versace. Accessories: Alexandra Neel, Assad Mounser, Devi Kroell, Dianora Salviati, Tonya Mezrich, K. Jacques, Lola, Sergio Rossi.
- What special services do you offer?
- Our relationship with our customers is our top priority. We offer personal shopping (which is essentially the experience you have every time you shop at Serenella), wardrobing, closet organization, trip itinerary planning, tailoring and custom special ordering from our designer collections.
- What is a very popular item year in and year out?
- Narciso Rodriguez black cashmere ribbed fitted turtleneck—a perfect basic to build on.
- How do you give back to the community?
- Serenella supports many local charities and schools: MGH for Children, Hill House and New England School of Fashion Design, to name a few.
- What should every woman over 50 own?
- A Jacket in a two-button, classic shape in a stretch wool seasonless fabric that can go with jeans, pants or a pencil skirt.
A beautiful blouse--feminine in a print or solid.
A clutch in a skin or patent leather, perfect for day or night, summer or fall.
A statement piece of jewelry -- bold cuff, beaded necklace or oversize cocktail ring.
A long v-neck cashmere cardigan that can be worn open or belted over pants, dress or skirt.
A menswear trouser. This style is flattering on everyone.
A black alligator belt for a finished look.
A short sleeve, crewneck dress. Short sleeves are wonderful since they do not necessarily need a jacket or a cardigan.
A platform pump in black suede or skin with an interior platform for maximum comfort.
- A Jacket in a two-button, classic shape in a stretch wool seasonless fabric that can go with jeans, pants or a pencil skirt.
Comments
Great fashion list! by Elise Johnston
Great fashion list!
"I love the elegance, simplicity and great look for women FOF. Headed for the closet to implement this plan. I have most of the items (and some of them are well-worn), but I can use this to get my Fall wardrobe in style and fill in with a few new things. Some from Serenella"