By: Jamaica Gleaner

Thursday January 27,

For more than 10 years, Trendi Editions Limited has been one of the best kept fashion secrets around.

It began in a small plaza along Constant Spring Road but moved to Worthington Terrace in New Kingston. Owner Consuela Blake said she has not 'made a lot of noise' because her clients love the exclusivity.

"They wanted to feel part of something unique, like when they come to Trendi Editions Limited they were stepping into their own little wardrobe," said Blake.

This 'wardrobe', which is fabulously decorated to rival any high-end store overseas, has massive space divided into several different areas. There is the LBD (little black dress) room, the gown room and the suit and business/cocktail dress area. Some of the designer labels include: Ann Klein, Jones New York, Eli Tahari, Escada, Kay Unger, Marc Bouwer, Scala, Xcite, Niteline, Adrianna Papal, David Miester, Tadashi, Alberta Makali, Sue Wong, Carliyn Vaile and more.

The upscale boutique carries one or maybe two pieces of any style and caters to young women who have just entered the work world as well as corporate executives, styling them with both business and formal wear. Blake told Flair that young female college graduates making the transition to the professional world often face wardrobe challenges. They are moving from hip and casual to classy and chic. Trendi Editions provides them with hassle-free solutions to that challenge.

Unique apparel

Started in 2000, Blake recognised a need for unique apparel.

"People didn't want the usual pieces, they wanted 'power' garments that would take them from one event to another, Blake said."

Over the years, Blake's client list (ages 20 to 60), grew through a referral system. As demand grew, she was forced to introduce the signature collection (black-label designer pieces), which speak directly to those who desire the feel for exclusivity and sophistication even when being causal. She said she knew from the start that in order to stay ahead in the fashion industry, she had to step into designer apparel, targeting a specific niche.

When the store opened, she had high hopes for her business but never envisioned that it would have grown so quickly and earned such a far-flung reputation. Besides outfitting some of the most fashionable women in Jamaica, the shop also contributes to charitable causes in east Kingston.

Superior customer service

Her love for clothing, combined with her admiration of well-dressed women pushed her into the fashion world. "It's not just about outfitting women in expensive clothes, but allowing them an opportunity to wear the right piece, paired with the perfect accessories, make-up and shoes that complement them." But, above all, the store offers superior customer service and the personal touch. "We understand each client and have earned their loyalty over the years. It's not about price or location, it's about that personal touch that sets you apart from others."

The staff understand customers' tastes and do not impose their personal style on them. They also go the extra mile to provide clients with free delivery service if necessary. Finally, the shopping environment makes everyone feel like family; not just about purchasing a dress or suit, but also coming together to unwind, laugh, sip a cup of coffee or glass of champagne if they so desire, and then shopping becomes the added bonus.

For more information check out Trendi Editions Limited at 8 1/2 Worthington Terrace or call 968-2026.