Toni Foster
Owner of Critique Boutique
Toni Foster's 'Critique' on fashion
by Rodney Branche
I first interviewed and wrote an article for Toni Foster two years ago when I was writing for "All Things Fashion DC" for my "Food & Fashion" series. As always Toni would captivate me with her wonderful knowledge of fashion with her welcoming attitude. Our conversations covered all areas of fashion concerning topics from emerging trends to important matters of what should be worn to different events for one to define their personal style. I am lucky to know Toni and seek out her knowledgeable advice when needed in important matters when seeking serious information regarding women's fashion. Surly ladies, you would benefit from Ms. Foster's wonderful selections from Critique Boutique!
I first interviewed and wrote an article for Toni Foster two years ago when I was writing for "All Things Fashion DC" for my "Food & Fashion" series. As always Toni would captivate me with her wonderful knowledge of fashion with her welcoming attitude. Our conversations covered all areas of fashion concerning topics from emerging trends to important matters of what should be worn to different events for one to define their personal style. I am lucky to know Toni and seek out her knowledgeable advice when needed in important matters when seeking serious information regarding women's fashion. Surly ladies, you would benefit from Ms. Foster's wonderful selections from Critique Boutique!
Copa: Where are you from Toni?
Toni: Third generation Washingtonian.
Toni: Third generation Washingtonian.
Copa: When did you establish Critique Boutique?
Toni: Critique Boutique was established as an online boutique in 2007 and opened the brick and mortar November 2010.
Toni: Critique Boutique was established as an online boutique in 2007 and opened the brick and mortar November 2010.
Copa: How did you arrive in this wonderful world of fashion?
Toni: Fashion has always been a huge interest of mine from early teenage years. My biggest inspiration was my mother. I loved her style so much and would play around in her madmen dresses, a style that I still love today. She was such a stylish woman, the original "Fashionista" long before it had even become a word.. I also attended Barbizon modeling school many years ago (we won't say how many) and dabbed in some amateur modeling, which included modeling for a few department stores such as Garfinkles and Raleigh Haberdasher's. Unfortunately black models were not very popular back then, and to be honest I soon became more interested in being behind the scenes of fashion. My dream was to one day own an upscale women's apparel boutique.
Toni: Fashion has always been a huge interest of mine from early teenage years. My biggest inspiration was my mother. I loved her style so much and would play around in her madmen dresses, a style that I still love today. She was such a stylish woman, the original "Fashionista" long before it had even become a word.. I also attended Barbizon modeling school many years ago (we won't say how many) and dabbed in some amateur modeling, which included modeling for a few department stores such as Garfinkles and Raleigh Haberdasher's. Unfortunately black models were not very popular back then, and to be honest I soon became more interested in being behind the scenes of fashion. My dream was to one day own an upscale women's apparel boutique.
Copa: How do you define your personal style?
Toni: You would ask that question! Personal style is such a big factor in opening my boutique. I've never been a trend, or for that manner, anything a follower. However in this business you must stay on top of what the latest trends are. While there are many trends that I admire, my personal style centers around fit, comfort, quality and workmanship. Those qualities are priorities for me. I love unique things, but if by chance it is something that happens to be trending at that time and is made well, then so be it! My style is me and each day what I'm wearing is a reflection of my mood! One of my favorite fashion quotes is "Fashion Fades, Style is eternal" so I guess if I had to define my style, it would be fashion that withstands the test of time.
Toni: You would ask that question! Personal style is such a big factor in opening my boutique. I've never been a trend, or for that manner, anything a follower. However in this business you must stay on top of what the latest trends are. While there are many trends that I admire, my personal style centers around fit, comfort, quality and workmanship. Those qualities are priorities for me. I love unique things, but if by chance it is something that happens to be trending at that time and is made well, then so be it! My style is me and each day what I'm wearing is a reflection of my mood! One of my favorite fashion quotes is "Fashion Fades, Style is eternal" so I guess if I had to define my style, it would be fashion that withstands the test of time.
Copa: What is your opinion of fashion and style here in the Washington Metropolitan area?
Toni: As I stated previously, I am a Washingtonian, and I have been around a few years . I say that to say, while fashion/style has changed a little in the "DMV" (due mostly to a fresher and younger political administration) it still remains somewhat conservative. We have seen a boost on local designers, fashion organizations and sense of attitude around "All things fashion" (I think most of it is due to just being in the business and therefore constantly surrounded by it), but in my opinion it seems more cliché than real. And I say that because, when I think of fashion and style I think creatively. Not just what's trending! For example, my boutique carries apparel created by independent designers and fashion houses that are very forward thinking. Many times there are pieces that are somewhat edgy while maintaining a classic style. I find that they are harder to sell until the style becomes more popular or is copied by mass producers. So there you go, ...I guess this area has more trend followers than trend setters!
Toni: As I stated previously, I am a Washingtonian, and I have been around a few years . I say that to say, while fashion/style has changed a little in the "DMV" (due mostly to a fresher and younger political administration) it still remains somewhat conservative. We have seen a boost on local designers, fashion organizations and sense of attitude around "All things fashion" (I think most of it is due to just being in the business and therefore constantly surrounded by it), but in my opinion it seems more cliché than real. And I say that because, when I think of fashion and style I think creatively. Not just what's trending! For example, my boutique carries apparel created by independent designers and fashion houses that are very forward thinking. Many times there are pieces that are somewhat edgy while maintaining a classic style. I find that they are harder to sell until the style becomes more popular or is copied by mass producers. So there you go, ...I guess this area has more trend followers than trend setters!
Copa: Tell us what you have for the Holiday Parties to offer your shoppers for this year.
Toni: As previously stated, we carry merchandise created by independent designers and fashion houses from around the globe. Our merchandise ranges from chic dresses, business casual wear, to separates designed to enhance you existing wardrobe. We also carry special occasion gowns and dresses from red carpet affairs to prom. Additionally, you may find arts and crafts from Africa to local. We have recently brought into the boutique an amazing skin care line. As with boutiques, you my find treasures that are in today and gone tomorrow.
Toni: As previously stated, we carry merchandise created by independent designers and fashion houses from around the globe. Our merchandise ranges from chic dresses, business casual wear, to separates designed to enhance you existing wardrobe. We also carry special occasion gowns and dresses from red carpet affairs to prom. Additionally, you may find arts and crafts from Africa to local. We have recently brought into the boutique an amazing skin care line. As with boutiques, you my find treasures that are in today and gone tomorrow.
Copa: Can your shoppers order online?
Toni: Yes! for now though, the method of payment is PayPal, However we also take phone orders, and take all major credit cards.
Toni: Yes! for now though, the method of payment is PayPal, However we also take phone orders, and take all major credit cards.
Copa: What does the future hold for Critique Boutique?
Toni: We're constantly working to be better while still maintaining a personal experience when you shop with us. We are incorporating more personal services, such as image consulting. ~Copa
Toni: We're constantly working to be better while still maintaining a personal experience when you shop with us. We are incorporating more personal services, such as image consulting. ~Copa
For more information on Critique Boutique: http://www.critiquemystyle.com/
Article from "All Things Fashion DC": http://allthingsfashiondc.com/2012/09/07/food-fashion-in-dc-guest-contributor-rodney-branche/
Article from "All Things Fashion DC": http://allthingsfashiondc.com/2012/09/07/food-fashion-in-dc-guest-contributor-rodney-branche/