Have you ever thought about having your own store and selling clothes that you loved and wanted to wear? Well, Angela Feria is doing just that. As a Commercial Entrepreneurship major, Angela started her boutique Mira La Vie in hopes to be able to provide cute clothing to women of every size.
Her Campus (HC): What inspired you to start up this store? How did you go about starting it?
Angela Feria (AF): I’ve always loved the originality of the clothing and the ease of shopping that boutique clothing provides. Although boutiques would typically be my go-to clothing destination, I never felt as if I belonged in the store. They were cookie cutter. Sizes small through large and for girls that had more money to spend. When you walked into the store, the looks from the girls at the cash register made you feel insecure because you didn’t fit into their stereotype for the women they wanted at their store. I finally decided to take matters into my own hands and create my own store. No stereotypes, friendly people, a place where you felt like everyone was your friend and of course ALL sizes S-3XL.
HC: What do you sell on your website? How do you choose these items?
AF: On the website and at the pop-ups I sell all clothing items from dresses, pants, shirts, jackets, to all accessories including purses, glasses, jewelry and now getting into some home decor. I choose these items based off my style (I’m typically a size XL so I don’t wear crop tops or things that are tight so my style can go for women my age up to women in their 40s who don’t want to show a lot but still want to look cute) as well as my friends (athleisure and going out at night and wanting to be on-trend). I know everyone has a different style and preference for what they wear so I try to get something for everyone.
HC: Do you sell things online as well as in person?
AF: Yes! We sell online as well as on Facebook and Instagram, and we also sell at pop-up locations.
HC: How often do you add new pieces/restock?
AF: I typically buy twice a year so in fall and spring and those products can translate into summer and winter as well. I also buy incrementally if I see anything else I like. We’re having a pop-up at the end of March called UNwineD and it’s a classier event with Southern Living and I’m going to be selling more sandals as well as beach essentials such as beach bags, cover-ups and bathing suits since we will be on the beach.
HC: Do you hope/plan to expand your store? If so, how?
AF: I do hope to expand! I want to be able to do more pop-ups as well as build a bigger online presence. Maybe in two years have a brick and mortar and grow!
HC: Is there any advice you’d like to give to someone who wants to create their own store?
AF: Do not underestimate the work! If you want it bad enough, you’ll have to work hard for it! Make sure it’s your passion! A good 3 months I woke up at 6/6:30 a.m. and went to bed at 3 a.m.!
HC: Anything else you would like to share?
AF: Follow Mira La Vie on Instagram and Facebook!
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