Although plus size stores exist, they are typically in larger urban centers, leaving those in small cities, towns, and rural areas with few options other than online shopping. Sundai Holloway Cody is changing that.
“I have been thinking, for a few years now, that Olds needs a plus sized store. The only places to get quality plus sizes are in the cities. About a month ago I was thinking about consignment stores. I thought, why not have a plus size only consignment store here? Once I made the decision the pieces started to fall into place and the support from my family, friends, and community has been astonishing,” says Sundai, who is now the proud owner of Curvaceous Boutique. The tentative grand opening date is set for September 2.
“The store will cater to sizes 14/1X and up,” Sundai continues. “We will have a high end section as well as budget-conscious section – something for everyone. We are also going to sell handbags, shoes, hats and costume jewelry.”
For Sundai, the consignment factor is very important. “I feel that we, as women in all sizes and shapes, want to dress nicely and sometimes you can’t for a variety of reasons. Finding attractive or any plus size clothing can be a challenge. Consignment provides an affordable way to shop and to earn some money along the way.”
The excitement is building for the grand opening. “We haven’t opened yet, but I am anticipating my favorite thing will be the atmosphere and excitement of customers finding that piece that they have been searching for. I want the women to feel beautiful in their own environment, with like minded women. Every woman is beautiful and deserves to feel and dress that way.”
She is also community minded and will use Curvaceous Boutique to help support local charities. “We are still working on this, but we are going two ways. First, if you want your clothes donated if they don’t sell, we will donate them to Women in Need Society (WINS). Second, if you want your earned money to go to charity, the charities you can pick from will be: Mountain View Emergency Shelter Society, Wild Rose Humane Society, or Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS). We also intend to run fundraisers for those charities in the future.”
Sundai is grateful to her supporters as she embarks on this venture, saying thanks to, “my husband Terry Cody for his support and encouragement, my mom Ann who is coming from the west coast to help get this store up and running, and my daughter Melissa who is helping by taking care of the digital aspects of the business. I would also like to acknowledge our community for the enthusiasm and support I am receiving.”
Curvaceous Boutique will be located at 4905A 50th Street in Olds. When the website is finished, you can find the store online at www.curvaceousboutique.ca.
