Founded by Dorothea Muhammad of Queens, New York, Belle “D” Kouture is an upscale online boutique with pret-a-porter, or ready-to-wear, modest women’s clothing. The boutique is a private label registered in Atlanta, Georgia, and was formed out of frustration that turned into inspiration. Dorothea Muhammad recalls hearing the ongoing battle of women who wish to dress modestly become frustrated with wearing many layers from various stores in order to find one outfit that works. After speaking with several women, she realized that mainstream media has made dressing modestly a difficult task. Dorothea Muhammad desired to make a change. With God in mind and a determined spirit, Belle “D” Kouture was created. The boutique strives to provide quality garments that do not reveal the contours of the female body and that limit unsolicited attention. Dorothea Muhammad’s clothing line is carefully designed to focus on the latest in affordable fashion styles. A new signature fragrance called Belle “D” Kouture has also been created as a method of brand recognition and a universal connection. “Islam holds women in very high esteem, and the Islamic rules of covering are intended to protect and guard a woman’s dignity and honor,” explained Dorothea Muhammad.
Rise Magazine (RM): How did the Nation of Islam inspire you to start Belle “D” Kouture?
Dorothea Muhammad (DM): We are taught to do for ourselves, so “out to solve a problem,” I embarked on a journey to bring my vision to life, providing an atmosphere where we would be able to shop in an upscale environment dedicated to helping Muslim women and serving our community.
(RM): Was it a scary process, first starting out?
(DM): No, once I prayed on it and asked Allah to guide me, everything seemed to fall into place, and what a blessing it has been!
(RM): Was there any opposition to starting your clothing line?
(DM): Yes, finding the right resources without having any knowledge of the industry was challenging. I took an online course which helped me to understand the terminology in the business, and I put in a lot of hours researching [information on the internet], which was a great help!
(RM): What’s your proudest moment with Belle “D” Kouture?
(DM): Hearing the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan say that he loved my designs, and that’s how he wants to see the women look every day.
(RM): How did you decide upon your target market?
(DM): Initially, my target market was the Nation of Islam, because other women can go into the department stores and purchase their clothing right off the rack. We [as Muslim women] did not have that option, but we do now.
(RM): How do you reach your market?
(DM): I reached my market through word-of-mouth, Facebook, and other social media outlets. I also started going into the churches and talking to women who like to dress in modest clothing.
(RM): What are two business strategies/methods you’ve learned over the years?
(DM): As far as the business strategies or methods, I would say that the most common method would be to treat people the way you want to be treated in business. These days, you don’t find good customer service anymore, so I dedicate my business to customer service and making sure that I’m treating people the way that I want to be treated. I go above and beyond to provide good-quality service as well as good products.
(RM): What tips would you give to aspiring retail fashion entrepreneurs?
(DM): Basically, laying your foundation for starting any business, you have to have a well-thought-out plan and you have to know how to execute it. We jump into business too soon, and we fail because we don’t do our research and groundwork.
There is more to business than making money. There is a lot that goes into it!
(RM): Is there anything you’d like to add?
(DM): Thank you for your time. This was great! Please visit my new boutique, which is now open. You can call 404-664-1024 to schedule an appointment. Also, please check out our new signature fragrance, which is called Belle “D” Kouture. We are also developing our second fragrance (a natural oil) called Unforgettable. You can purchase all products at www.belledkouture.com.
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