Boutique Empowering Women of All Sizes

Local boutiques are one of my favorite places to shop because I know I can always find something unique. I really enjoy exploring the special environments that owners craft. The only struggle I face is that oftentimes I can’t find my size. I typically wear a size 12/14, which typically translates to an XL. Majority of boutiques carry sizes XS-L and unfortunately a lot of the vendors you’ll see in this market don’t always carry size XL in the first place. It’s not the boutique owners’ fault. The industry makes it challenging for them to get larger sizes without having to invest a ton of money and potentially take a huge hit when they are drowning in unsold inventory at the end of the season. It’s a tough situation for both parties, but there are ways to make it work. Firefly Boutique Ltd. in Charlotte, NC, is doing everything they can to help cater to women of all shapes and sizes, no matter the cost.

Located just off I-485 and Benfield Rd, Firefly Boutique Ltd. was founded in 2016 by mother-daughter duo Ellen & Taylor. Their vision was to create a destination where women of different sizes, shapes, and ages could find the perfect look. Their assortment is trendy, fun, and versatile with a focus on affordable fashion. Almost everything in their boutique is under $50! The best part is they carry sizes S-3X. Yes, you read that right! Plus size and missy size women can shop together in the same boutique. Ellen works hard to make sure that she keeps the pricing on items consistent across all sizes, too. This is a challenge in it’s own right because sizes XL-3X usually cost boutiques more than XS-L. Manufacturers have to use more fabric to produce those sizes. When manufacturers’ production cost goes up, so does the wholesale price for the boutique, which means a higher price tag when it’s hits the sales floor. Unfortunately, most customers aren’t aware of this. All they see is a confusing, seemingly unfair price difference. Some may interpret it as “why am I being punished?” No merchandiser ever wants a woman to think that they are being punished for their size. Which is why it’s so wonderful that Firefly consciously chooses to take a hit on their profit margin to make sure they’re giving all their customers the same experience, regardless of size.

In addition to clothing, Firefly also carries jewelry, accessories, and gifts. They even have several local designers like Charlotte Candle Company, Farmer and The Belle Candles out of Mooresville and, one my favorite Charlotte jewelry designers, Kendle Starcher of Neon Love Story. I actually snagged a great pair of druzy stud earrings for my mom’s birthday last time I visited and she loved them! The selection was beautiful. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for a gift, I think everyone could find something at Firefly.

outfit details: similar dress one, two & three // orig bangle from stella+dot, similar here // similar ring // nude sandals

I’m wearing an off the shoulder shift dress which I purchased for my sister’s bridal shower a few weeks ago. I love the keyhole detail in the front! It added a little something different and made the neckline even more flattering. This dress was so flowy and comfortable I could wear it all day. As an added bonus, it was less than $40! I’m pictured wearing size XL. Since it’s a dark navy, I paired it with bright jewelry to add a fun pop of color. My bangle was a gift from my sister-in-law many years ago and it’s still one of my favorite pieces for summer because of the bold turquoise and coral combination. It’s originally from Stella+Dot, but I found a similar one by Kenneth Jay Lane. My ring is an old faithful that I snagged on sale at Banana Republic back in college. Same story with my grey clutch, sorry about that! As you can see, I like to invest in pieces that I can use for years to come. I also wear these nude sandals a LOT and will probably continue to do so all summer. They’re very comfortable and currently on sale on Amazon for less than $60.

Thank you so much for reading my post about Firefly Boutique Ltd. I hope that if you live in Charlotte you’ll go check them out! If you don’t live in the area, keep in mind that you can always call them to place an order at 704-464-1474. Please let them know I sent you!