The Back Story: Chic Jolie: 'Uniqueness & Customer Service'

This "interview" about the Chic Jolie store at 57 Main St. was conducted by the owner, Alla Ionescu, filling out this form for Patch and submitting it. It's part of Westport Patch's new series of business profiles, "The Back Story."

How did you come up with the name?
Our name was inspired by contemporary culture and iconic European styles. Chic Jolie passionately picks sophisticated and easy-to-wear garments to give women an expressive look that they each deserve.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?
Westport is one of the major fashion destinations in Connecticut.

Briefly, what business are you in?
Women's fashion.

What's the most difficult moment or challenge you've faced as a business owner?
Recovering from two hurricanes.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?
Being in Westport for 10 years, I find the majority of small businesses have left downtown. The demographics have changed. It became more challenging to compete with big corporate franchise stores.

What's been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?
Having clients walking out of the store with full satisfaction, saying they get service that they would never get in big corporate stores. With us, it's one-on-one working with the client's needs and wants. It's about uniqueness and customer service.

What's the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?
Constantly looking for new brands and products to keep the customer intrigued and retuning on a regular basis.

How do you deal with difficult customers?
There no such thing as a difficult customer. Every person is difficult in their own way. We do our best to communicate with whoever comes in the store and satisfy them and make them get the best out of it. The customer is always right.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?
We support a variety of school fundraisers & charities.

Chic Jolie