EXPERT OPINION

Deme Taleghani is a stay-at-home mom to two young kids, so it’s easy to guess that her schedule is anything but empty. “I’m… pretty involved in fundraising for our kids’ two schools, and I also sit on different boards,” she says. As a result, Taleghani has plenty of special events to attend that require just the right pair of shoes. Enter Karen Fabbri, owner of Moxie in Beacon Hill, Mass. “Karen and I have known each other since I moved to Boston from New York four years ago,” Taleghani says. “We met at our kids’ nursery school.”
“I’d wear something from the store, and she’d ask where I got it or she’d come by and I’d suggest a shoe she’d like,” Fabbri says. “She walks by multiple times a day, so it’s easy for her to stop in weekly and see what we’re carrying.”

But Taleghani doesn’t just shop for herself at the high-end shoe and accessories boutique. “I’ve bought all my teachers gifts there,” she admits. “It’s a great place for birthday presents. When I need a present for this person, Karen says, ‘OK, tell me about her.’ She’s always thinking of her clients, and things I’d like.” Here Taleghani gives us the low-down on her shopping habits, favorite brands and why Moxie always has what she needs.

Why do you shop at this store? How often do you visit?
I come in once a week to check in. I usually buy something once every two months. In the spring and summertime, I will usually buy two things; her price points are great. Often I come in because I need something specific for a function. The good thing about Karen’s store is she totally meets your needs, like if I need white shoes and a bag to match. Sometimes I’ll buy a belt, and I’ve bought a couple of necklaces.

What are you looking for today?
I wasn’t looking for anything. I just went in, because I hadn’t bought anything in a while. Then I saw these really sexy, beautiful Theory pumps. I needed new pumps and they looked great.

What did you buy?
A pair of sexy, beautiful Theory pumps.

What brands do you like right now?
Mystique, Bernardo, Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs, Cole Haan and Hayden-Harnett.

What trends do you think will be important for spring?
Sandals with vibrant color and the metallics are still probably going to do well. I’m a big fan of gold and silver, but not too much stone embellishments. I think what I’ve also noticed is that a lot of women want comfortable and sexy at the same time.

What trend are you over?
The gladiator look and gemstones on shoes. I think it’s impractical.

What are you still looking for?
Really nothing, just that unusual shoe.

Do you prefer shoes stores that carry accessories?
Yes, I think it’s nice to be able to complete the package, but keep it within reason.

What is it about this store that keeps you coming back?
Karen and the service you get and the types of styles and shoes she has. I like going to a store where they have my size and style, and you don’t have to browse through a huge department store. I broke a pair of sandals and took them back and she gave me new ones. She’ll see me and tell me about a pair of great sandals; she’s always thinking about her customers.

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