6 Innovative Apparel and Accessory Products You Should Try In Your Boutique Now.

It doesn't matter whether you own a small clothing boutique or a big department store, you should always be on the look out for something unique to offer your customers. It is true that often times in the clothing industry, it is difficult to find something that really stands out at a good price point. Clothing manufacturers are always attempting to reach the masses by focusing on more trendy, fast fashion markets while the indie brands offer innovative products that, due to manufacturing costs and low production minimums, are very expensive. So does a savvy store/boutique buyer like you do? Get a little creative. We understand the challenge of maintaining low costs while still offering top notch quality and innovation in the apparel industry. Although you  already have your go-to brands that you know work with your customer-base, it is highly recommended that you bring in a new product(s) or a new brand(s) at least once a season. This not only adds freshens to your assortment, but it keeps the regular customer coming back to replenish your closet. If bringing in a new clothing line is too expensive because of their minimums or you simply can't afford the risk or don't have the space, we recommend bringing in one or two innovative products that will truly stand out (do this especially around the holiday season!). To make it just a bit easier for you, we've put together a list of 6 products you should consider carrying in your gift/clothing store or boutique this year!

                                                                 The glow in the dark dress
Although this is a product for a younger audience, there is no reason why you shouldn't be able to sell them in a store that caters to the more mature woman- The key is to focus on the garment's quality and its style. Here's the thing, every woman attend events or goes out every now and then and needs a fun cocktail dress in her closet. This dress just takes it to the next level and if you're the girl that loves some (positive) attention, this is a must for you. The cool thing about this product is it can work both as a cocktail/night dress because of it's ability to come to life at night, as well as a more casual work dress (it only glows in the dark!) making it so easy to transition from day to night. It is fun and stands out, reminding us a bit of the technological influence taking over the fashion industry in the upcoming years. Anything that makes us literally glow is a winner for us!

Image via thehunt.com

Image via Pintrest

                                                                          The Garter Pocket
The Garter Pocket is perfect for the girl that isn't a huge fan of carrying her purse everywhere, especially when out grabbing a drink with friends (or out dancing!). It works with skirts and dresses and is subtle and sleek. This, logically, is not a product that you can use with pants. However,  it's not something that you need when wearing pants anyways because most pants have pockets, where as dresses, not so much. It is also a product geared for the younger customer that enjoys going out and is smartphone-inseparable. If you're looking for something fun to offer your customers that wont break the bank yet make a good addition to any gift, we recommend this simple yet effective item.

Image via www.thisiswhyimbroke.com

                                      The 11:11 Jacket: A jacket that transforms into a bag
One of our proud inventions, the 11:11 Jacket gives you the ability to transform your jacket into a fully functional bag during transitional weather. It is probably unlike any other convertible garment because it maintains its authentic look and function whether it's in bag or jacket form. The design is subtle yet its function is extremely effective. Unlike many other convertible clothing items on the market, the jacket is neither bulky nor too heavy, maintaining a traditional look with a revolutionary function. The transition steps are intuitive making it an easy product to sell to the masses. In a world where new convertible garments retail at over $400, the 11:11 Convertible Jacket is less than half that price! 

                                                                      Slap-Band Glasses
These come from a company called SlapSee and it's a huge favorite of ours. It is not a secret we, at Doina Alexei, love functional design that is done well, and these awesome glasses fit the category perfectly. If you stop to think about all the instances we wear sun glasses and need to briefly take them off when we enter a building or the clouds move in temporarily, you will feel the need to own a pair. They transform from sunglasses to wrist band in just a  couple of simple steps and come in both women's and men's styles. The secret is in the sprung steel arm of the sunglasses that literaly clips to your head and wont fall off- sheer perfection for any sporting activity. These flexible steel arms can then be claped to just about anything from hangers to bike bars to ankles and beyond. This is garanteed to be a well sought-after product in your gift or accessories boutique. Its highly funtional, universal nature will keep your customers coming back for more. Additional good news? They are affordable! Check them out at SlapSee

Image via www.gizmodo.com

                                                                      Yoga Work Pants
A must for every working woman. These  are comfortable yet extremely flattering on any body-type and the good news is you can't tell they are made of the most deliciously stretchy and comfy knit fabric. Our winner when it comes to both quality and design is Betbrand- offering a collection of yoga work pants that will have everyone at the office fooled (in a good way!). The reason why we love Betbrand's work pants so much is first and foremost the attention to detail in their design process: They feature belt loops, a substantial waistband with a center button on the front, decorative faux welt pockets on the back and a v-shaped addition on the sides for added comfort and structure. They are the perfect imitation of work pants but because of the high content of spandex, they feel and stretch exactly like your favorite yoga pants. 

Image via www.betabrand.com

                                                                                      The Flip Belt
This clever idea is a  replacement for the traditional jogging/running arm-bands and pockets. It is a simple idea that has taken the active wear industry by storm with hundreds of retailers in the US in a short period of time. The Flip Belt is a stretchy and very durable tube-form belt that houses anything from your phone to keys, ID and wallet while keeping everything from moving around thus maintaining comfort. The construction and fabrication eliminates discomfort and chafing during physical activity, earning this product high points in our book. If you own an accessories, apparel and especially active wear store give this product a try- your customers will love it! Check it out Here

Image via www.flipbelt.com