Toulouse
by Lee CutroneToulouse, who likes to find a patch of sun near the front door where he can keep a watchful eye out for the UPS truck and who entertains customers by rolling over and smiling like a Cheshire cat, is a fitting mascot for a store that doesn't take itself too seriously. Its whimsical name was taken from a brand of English dishwashing liquid, and its inventory of girly, retro looks — and jewelry and handbags by local designers — is ideal for anyone in need of a good, lighthearted shopping buzz.
A native New Orleanian with 20 years of retail experience, Laird fills Fairy with things she loves — jeans, flirty tops and dresses, easy pants, cropped jackets, delicate necklaces and earrings, vintage-inspired hats and shoes — and markets them to working women in search of pretty pieces that make the transition from day to night.
Toulouse's antics are a nice bit of lagniappe to round out the Fairy experience. "They're known as the little clowns," says Laird of the infectiously jaunty breed, which was popularized by Parisian prostitutes and artists during the 1920s. "They will show off to get attention. They will jump in the air, fall down and roll over. They're really cheeky."
my
favorite things ...
Black leather collar I got for Christmas
cheese
Snuggling with Rexie (Laird's son)
Taking Walks
Snoozing on the red chaise lounge at Fairy
My Best Friend Joe (Laird's gray Tabby)
