When designer Mami Suzuki moved to New York from Tokyo, she wanted to inject some of her homeland's aesthetic and appreciation for originality into the New York scene. At her newly opened Nolita boutique, msg., you will find some of Mami's one-of-a-kind designs, alongside cool pieces from international labels that you can't score anywhere else in town. Read on to find out more about this new fashion dynamo!

Can you tell us a bit about the history of the store?
We just opened, but the location used to be a small art gallery. My husband and I currently share the space; he paints downstairs in his studio and I have the store upstairs.

What made you want to open up your own place?
I like my taste in clothing! By owning a store, I am able to set up a boutique in the style of my own closet, full of what I love. I also really wanted to introduce New Yorkers to Japanese independent designers. In Japan, there is a strong pull toward the unique. Japanese love having what no one else has; everyone wants to be the most original. I want New Yorkers to have that same desire for the unique and I want to be the first to introduce these brands to them.

What do you provide that's unique or different from other spots?
Warm, kind and friendly service! I am very proud of this and I like to make people feel welcome here. Even if you don't think something is going to fit, I say try it on and relax. Just have some fun with clothing! That and my store has many exclusive items that your just can't get anywhere else.

How do you find new designers or lines?
Through friends...I go to trade shows, walk around and just research.

What is the current big trend with your customers?
Dresses! People love dresses so much and I carry so many really cute ones.

What's in the shop right now that makes you the most excited?
A fitted mid-knee dress in mesh. I may be Japanese, but I like sexy, not cute.

Which designers do really well at your store?
My line seems to be doing very well because there's something for everyone, so I have to say msg.

Who best represents your ideal customer?
Someone who can put my clothes on and turn it into something made just for them; someone who wears their clothes and is not worn by them!

MSG, 66 Kenmare Street, (212) 334-4032

Similar Topics:fashion, shopping, Talking Shop

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