Welcome to the Best of New Orleans! Shoptalk 02 08 05

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SHOPTALK By Kandace Power Graves

02 08 05

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Head-to-Toe Fashion Stop

A multi-colored top of acid-cut velvet, lace and crochet, and a metallic gold clutch are among the many fashion-forward offerings shoppers will find at the new Clo Cia.

The concept behind Clo Cia (3000 Severn Ave., Metairie, 324-9450) is a simple one: a women's boutique with the latest fashions, both trendy and classic, where young women and their mothers can receive one-on-one service in assembling complete outfits without paying a premium price -- and without going to a mall. Owners Patricia Gattuso and Shannel Abadie have transformed their concept into reality in a 3-month-old store that already has a cadre of regulars.

"It's a reasonable store, with the feel of a classy boutique," says Gattuso. "The thing that really does set us apart Š is that we are very much hands-on in helping our customers, in putting together outfits for them.

"Most of the comments we receive from our customers are ŒWe've never had anyone help us like this before.' We pick things according to their style and body types. That was our concept from the beginning."

Gattuso describes the clothing in the store as "predominantly fashion-forward, some trendy-funky, trendy-classy, and some very classic staple pieces." The showroom offers dresses, pants, shirts, sweaters, shoes, handbags, belts, jewelry and more. Most customers range in age from 18 to 40.

"They don't have to go anywhere else to find a whole outfit -- it's an all-inclusive shop," says Gattuso. "And it's not expensive ... and we have something for everyone."

Look Good, Feel Great

Fashion and fun combined with fundraising for the American Heart Association of New Orleans (AHA) come together in the free Styles with Heart event at Rubensteins (102 St. Charles Ave., 581-6666) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Feb. 17. The event is free but reservations are required. The evening will feature live entertainment, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Everyone who attends will receive a 10 percent discount off purchases made that evening, and 10 percent of the proceeds will benefit the AHA in honor of American Heart Month. If you mention the AHA when you shop at Rubensteins the week of Feb. 18-26, 10 percent of your sale will go to the association.