In the business of luxury sales, it takes a trained and confident professional to combine their passion for style with their impeccable customer service skills to create a shopping experience equally as valuable as the product they're selling. Luxury Sales Consultant Alina utilizes her strong background in the fashion industry as a graduate from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC and her charming and bubbly personality to create a fun and welcoming environment that keeps our customers coming back for more. Get to know more about our Sales Team Member, Alina, and her experience at Couture in our latest edition of the Couture USA profile series!

What interested you in becoming a part of the Couture USA Team?

I've been shopping for designer resale for as long as I can remember. When I moved to Florida and found Couture, I couldn't believe the quality and selection compared to the stores in Manhattan. When I decided to pursue a career in sales, I knew I wanted to sell Couture's enviable and constantly changing inventory.

Who are your favorite designers?

Cristobal Balenciaga. Right now I love Simone Rocha.

How would you describe your style? Are there any designers you draw inspiration from?

I would describe my style as fun and sexy. I try not to take myself too seriously and always have fun when I’m getting dressed. I can’t stop buying everything Cavalli right now and I’m always into Galliano’s Dior from the early 2000’s. I draw more inspiration from classic films and 60’s rock and roll than I do from specific designers. Anita Pallenberg is my ultimate style icon.

Follow Alina on Instagram @alinaatcouture for updates on all of the latest items that come in-store before they hit the website!

What would you say is the most important factor in providing customers with an excellent shopping experience?

I think it all comes down to caring about each client leaving the store with something they love. It's important to listen and take the time to get to know everyone so I can use my product knowledge to recommend the perfect item.

What are some of the more popular shopping or fashion trends are you currently seeing among clients?

I would say monogram prints are really coming back, especially Fendi and Gucci. Sneakers have been really popular for a while and my customers are leaning towards smaller bags lately instead of large totes.

In your time working in the fashion retail industry, what are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned?

Most of us don't have room in our budget to buy EVERYTHING we love (which can be hard working at Couture!), so invest in the things you'll wear everyday like handbags and jewelry. The right handbag will last you years and retain its value, while jewelry elevates every outfit in your wardrobe. Before you pay full retail price, remember you can get so much more for your money at Couture.

Scroll down to shop Alina's favorites!

What are some of your favorite things about your position?

I love to see women finally purchase something they've always lusted after and never thought they could afford! We get new products every day so it's always exciting to see what has come in and start trying to find each item the perfect home. It's great when we receive something that I know a specific client is going to be excited about.

How do you create and maintain a relationship with your customers?

We really get to know our customers well working in a small intimate boutique. I think customers appreciate my honesty because when they shop here I want them to feel like they’re shopping with a friend not just a sales associate behind a counter. In my experience, it’s important to sell customers items that will seamlessly fit into their wardrobe and not just anything and everything.

What advice would you give to anyone interested in pursuing a career in fashion?

Be ready to work hard but never forget to always have fun and never take fashion too seriously.

Shop Alina's Top Favorite items here:

• Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Sugar Stack Necklace 
• Chanel Vintage Chain Shield Sunglasses 
• Louis Vuitton Cerise Zippy Wallet
• Gucci Thiara Mini Bamboo Top Handle Bag 
• Gucci Dapper Dan Bomber Jacket