I had the pleasure of interviewing Marie-France Tremblay, entrepreneur/owner of L’Essentiel par MF. A private clothing boutique for women, set in Old Montreal. While it has a variety of styles that will answer a wide variety of women’s needs, the private service concept will also perfectly suit the busy professional woman. You’ll see why below. And with fall calling for a switch of wardrobe, it was a good timing to ask Marie-France what fall trends could upgrade our workwear looks.
But first let me tell you a bit about her boutique concept, which – as someone who does not have much time to spare — I find brilliant.
PRIVATE SETTING BOUTIQUE
A few years ago, with 20 years under her belt working as a stylist for different designers, Marie-France decided to start her own business. Part of the concept being to offer her clients a personalized and luxurious shopping experience.
L’Essentiel par MF serves one client at a time, on an appointment basis. You get to shop in a roomy and spacious loft, which creates a calm and inspiring atmosphere. About 20 different brands are sold, varying from casual/chic, to professional, to evening wear (she even sells full-length evening gowns). Accessories like scarves, handbags, shoes and jewelry are also available.
A lady customer who was present when I interviewed Marie-France summarized it for me like this: “Every season, I buy pretty much everything I need here to complete my wardrobe. Really… everything except maybe for my underwear…“.
And of course you get Marie-France and her team’s full devotion and advice. Helping you create looks that mix and match, to provide optimum value. « I’m even able to make some of my seasonal purchases with specific clients in mind. Since with time, I get to know what they have in their closet and what’s missing to fill the gaps. My clients really appreciate this! », says Marie-France.
L’Essentiel carries many brands exclusively in Canada. Like Fabiana Filippi White and Black Labels, Liviana Conti, Edward Achour, Tonet and Delage handbags.
Seems like today, with women’s demanding schedules — trying to balance career with family demands – saving time is precious. So reducing shopping time — no waiting in line to try on clothes or to pay, finding it all or almost in one single place — while getting quality products and personalized service, is hard to beat. It looks like Marie-France had the right vision. Add her exquisite taste, her passion and bubbly personality, no wonder her business is a success and growing!
TRENDS WEARABLE TO WORK
There are many fall trends that can be incorporated in a professional woman’s work outfits. As Marie-France explains, “buy items like high waist pants, a velvet suit, or blouses with bell sleeves or neck details (like a tie neck blouse). Mixing patterns and prints is also a great way to make you look current“. “Accessories are predominant as well. And jewelry will always add a nice touch. Finally, a great handbag remains one of the key statement pieces for the business woman“.
Here are a few inspiration looks on how to wear 2017 fall trends, from brands carried by L’Essentiel.
CASUAL INSPIRATIONS
GREAT SHOPPING EXPERIENCE MADE SIMPLE
Find everything you need — or almost — all in one place. Once you’ve tried it, you will want to return, trust me. From out-of-town? When you make plans to come to Montreal, fix an appointment ahead of time. To make sure you get a chance to try this luxurious shopping experience!