I first met Katherine Glorioso Dress, owner of the Washington, D.C. area-based clothing and accessory boutique Gossip on 23rd, in 2009. We both spoke on a panel at a local arts college about working in fashion.
I knew I had to check out Gossip in-person when she shared with me that all the store’s merchandise, which includes clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry, was under $100. The boutique is like every girl’s dream closet filled with clothing racks full of the season’s best trends, jewelry stands overflowing with bold statement necklaces, bracelets and rings, and a shoe selection that rivals Amel de Marcos’.
It’s definitely one of D.C.’s hidden gems and I even hosted S&P‘s 5th blogiversary party there. Katherine’s been profiled in publications such as Northern Virginia magazine and Arlington magazine, and on NBC Washington. She and I had a chance to catch-up recently and I asked her about everything from what her fave NYFW collections were to which spring trends she’s coveting most.
Why did you decide to open a clothing boutique?
I’ve always wanted my own business — specifically, a boutique — and have always been into fashion. When I was little I would invite my friends over to play store instead of Barbies. [I can remember] being nine-years-old and telling people I was going to be an entrepreneur like my dad. I would dress my sisters up in clothing and makeup and make them pose and take their pictures. They were my first models. This has always been my calling.
Everything in your store is under $100. Why did you decide to set it at that price point?
I wanted women to feel like they could keep up with the trends and not break the bank. I based my store off of a Hollywood/Melrose Ave. boutique, where everything is mostly under $100.
New York Fashion Week just ended (where the fall 2014 collections were revealed). What were some of your favorite collections?
Loved Mara Hoffman‘s collection, the textures at Herve Leger by Max Azria and Angel Sanchez had some awesome cuts and fabrics.
This winter has been brutal. Which spring fashion trends are you most looking forward to seeing (and wearing)?
Love crop tops and high-waisted pants and skirts, boyfriend denim, geometric and mixed print dresses, fringe, and lots of color!
Who are your style icons?
I love Miroslava Duma and Edie Campbell — she always has a fresh look. Also, Olivia Palermo always looks well put together. [Some of my favorite time periods include] the styles of the 1960s and 1970s, so much fun!
What are your three must-have beauty products?
Exfoliator — as we age it’s so important to exfoliate. It helps keep the skin looking fresh and young-ish. Blinc Mascara is amazing and makes my eyelashes feel happy. Bare Minerals foundation powder helps to cover all of my flaws or at least most of them.
You have a sister store, Gossip on Melrose, that’s based in Los Angeles. Any plans to branch out to other major cities soon?
I am currently looking at my options for another store. I have something in the works for the current store that is keeping me very busy at the moment. Pretty soon Gossip on 23rd may be offering other styling services (think: hair, nails, waxing, etc). Stay tuned!
To learn more about Katherine and Gossip on 23rd, go to www.gossipon23rd.com. Read more “Real Style” posts here.
Keep it stylish,
Stylin' & Profilin' 