Run by local fashion insider Laura Dinning and her equally savvy daughter TJ, this polished shop carries a high-end mix of European and American designers. Fine Italian cashmere by Les Copains mixes with THVM jeans, Sachin & Babi evening-wear, and handcrafted Henry Beguelin handbags to go with everything. The pieces are timeless, yet current; elegant, yet trend-conscious. I caught up with the mother-daughter duo to learn a bit more about the women behind this thriving business.
What inspired you to open up your own boutique here in Montecito?
Laura: Working in luxury fashion as a buyer and agent for over 25 years has been an exciting and fulfilling career, however, owning my own store and having the freedom to express myself through that eluded me. I felt it was my time to jump off and begin that journey. My children are grown, my passion is strong and my personal sense of what works in fashion is hewn.
Who is the Allora customer?
Laura: The Allora customer is modern. She’s informed about what’s fashionable, but knows what works best for her. She appreciates clothing that’s classic, but also wants it to be fresh, reinvented and beautifully made. She loves labels but cares less about the designer’s name and more about their history and their relevance today.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when starting your own business?
Laura: I took the opportunity to open at this location with only a few months to prepare. Fortunately, the relationships I had forged over the years allowed me to call upon so many wonderful colleagues who believed in my concept. My vision was clear in my mind, but putting together the landscape of merchandise and getting it shipped in time to open, while also building out the space was very challenging.
What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs who want to start their own business?
Laura: Do just what is in front of you. Commit to the process, not the end result. If you trust in your dream, it will come to fruition. Above all, remain passionate.
Laura: I think that can be challenging in any team situation. The key for both of us is to respect one another’s place and try to understand where we’re both coming from. For me, I have to remember how hard my daughter has worked to be able to do what she does. The store is blessed to employ her fashion sense, gracious personality and integrity. And, we drink a lot of really good coffee.
What’s hot this season at Allora? Give us your spring 2015 forecast.
TJ: Surprisingly, we saw a lot of color that we liked! Bright fuscias, aquas and yellows. Consequently, this season we have prints,
What’s the most rewarding part of owning your own business?
Laura: Being able to get the mix right. Seeing customers walk out with their shopping bag in tow and hearing how excited they are about their purchase and their shopping experience. It’s a great personal plus too, to know my family is proud of me.
How much does Santa Barbara and Costal California style play into your buy for the store?
Laura: A huge part of the look
What are the must-have pieces you think every Allora customer needs to pick up this season?
Laura & TJ: The Sally LaPointe Printed Silk Chiffon Long Skirt
It’s California chic, New York new and safari-sensational!
Strom Denim Jean
This brand is a Kate Bosworth fav—need we say more?
Freelance Wide Strapped Platform Shoe in Cognac
It’s hip, goes with EVERYTHING and happy-hour safe.
Borbonese Rose Gold Bowler Handbag
There’s not an Italian woman who doesn’t have a Borbonese bag in her closet.
Now for your personal picks. What current items in your arsenal could you not live without?
Laura: A Peter Cohen ankle-length shift dress in 4-ply silk. You put it on and are immediately covered in an amazing minimalist silhouette, a canvas that can showcase the jewelry and accessories that inspire you in that moment. You feel good and you’re ready to go.
TJ: Sometimes all I have time for in the morning is head-to-toe black. So, my must haves are my Chanel lip stains. I own two — in natural pink and classic red. Happily shuffled between my handbags and clutches, they’re always there for me! Can’t live without them.
To get Laura and Tj’s must-haves visit or call:
Mon-Thr: 10am to 6pm
Fri & Sat: 10am to 7pm
Sun: 11am to 5pm
What inspired you to open up your own boutique here in Montecito?
Laura: Working in luxury fashion as a buyer and agent for over 25 years has been an exciting and fulfilling career, however, owning my own store and having the freedom to express myself through that eluded me. I felt it was my time to jump off and begin that journey. My children are grown, my passion is strong and my personal sense of what works in fashion is hewn.
Who is the Allora customer?
Laura: The Allora customer is modern. She’s informed about what’s fashionable, but knows what works best for her. She appreciates clothing that’s classic, but also wants it to be fresh, reinvented and beautifully made. She loves labels but cares less about the designer’s name and more about their history and their relevance today.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when starting your own business?
Laura: I took the opportunity to open at this location with only a few months to prepare. Fortunately, the relationships I had forged over the years allowed me to call upon so many wonderful colleagues who believed in my concept. My vision was clear in my mind, but putting together the landscape of merchandise and getting it shipped in time to open, while also building out the space was very challenging.
What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs who want to start their own business?
Laura: Do just what is in front of you. Commit to the process, not the end result. If you trust in your dream, it will come to fruition. Above all, remain passionate.
As a mother daughter team running a successful business, how do you balance your personal and professional relationships?
Laura: I think that can be challenging in any team situation. The key for both of us is to respect one another’s place and try to understand where we’re both coming from. For me, I have to remember how hard my daughter has worked to be able to do what she does. The store is blessed to employ her fashion sense, gracious personality and integrity. And, we drink a lot of really good coffee.
TJ: I couldn’t have said it better Mom! I have come into the business knowing how much time, experience and talent my Mom has in this industry and that this store is another one of her babies. Roles are huge, so are days off! But mainly it’s the coffee, respect, and faith that we’re doing the right thing that chugs us along!
What’s the most rewarding part of owning your own business?
Laura: Being able to get the mix right. Seeing customers walk out with their shopping bag in tow and hearing how excited they are about their purchase and their shopping experience. It’s a great personal plus too, to know my family is proud of me.
How much does Santa Barbara and Costal California style play into your buy for the store?
Laura: A huge part of the look at Allora reflects the lifestyle here in Santa Barbara. I come from a very long line of Californians. The spirit of my personal dressing reflects a little bit of everything that is marvelous about our west coast experience. A little beach, a little mountain, a little Hollywood and a little big city.
What’s hot this season at Allora? Give us your spring 2015 forecast.
TJ: Surprisingly, we saw a lot of color that we liked! Bright fuscias, aquas and yellows. Consequently, this season we have prints, gingham fabrications, a lot of denim interpretations, and a plethora of skirts. The skirt is a definite must-have for this season, whether it’s a cotton a-line in a great color, or a pleated, romantic, ankle-length skirt paired with an ornate belt and baubled sandal.
What are the must-have pieces you think every Allora customer needs to pick up this season?
Laura & TJ: The Sally LaPointe Printed Silk Chiffon Long Skirt
It’s California chic, New York new and safari-sensational!
Strom Denim Jean
This brand is a Kate Bosworth fav—need we say more?
Freelance Wide Strapped Platform Shoe in Cognac
It’s hip, goes with EVERYTHING and happy-hour safe.
Borbonese Rose Gold Bowler Handbag
There’s not an Italian woman who doesn’t have a Borbonese bag in her closet.
Now for your personal picks. What current items in your arsenal could you not live without?
Laura: A Peter Cohen ankle-length shift dress in 4-ply silk. You put it on and are immediately covered in an amazing minimalist silhouette, a canvas that can showcase the jewelry and accessories that inspire you in that moment. You feel good and you’re ready to go.
TJ: Sometimes all I have time for in the morning is head-to-toe black. So, my must haves are my Chanel lip stains. I own two — in natural pink and classic red. Happily shuffled between my handbags and clutches, they’re always there for me! Can’t live without them.
