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Always on Trend: Tootsies

Interview with Norman Lewis, owner of Tootsies, where is dishes on Houston style and withstanding the test of time.

Tootsies has been a Houston mainstay for nearly three decades, and in the ever-changing fashion world, that is a lifetime. Owner Norman Lewis shares how Tootsies differentiates itself and has remained relevant for generations of Houston women.

How long have you been involved with Tootsies?

I have been a part of the Tootsies family for the past 25 years, first working daily with our Founder as COO. Donna and I then purchased the business three years ago, continuing the Tootsies legacy of fashion and philanthropy as a locally owned family business. Donna is out in the community, Memorial, and greater Houston, visiting with ladies to hear what they like and what they would like to see and cultivate new clients. Donna is essentially a Tootsies Ambassador, head-to-toe Tootsies.

How is Memorial style different from other places?

We are a part of a metropolitan city where women desire to look and feel great. The style is versatile and, honestly, mindful of the weather. Our buyers and stylists know what women will immediately love and what pieces to introduce that may be beyond their current fashion vision. The women in our community are always open to new brands, styles, and approaches to fashion. They value quality and looks that will empower them, whether they are running errands, attending family events, or professional pursuits.

What do you do to keep Tootsies relevant on the fashion scene? 

Our buying team is ahead of the fashion curve and knows what's next and what works for our Houston and Memorial area customers. They travel to markets in New York, Los Angeles, Copenhagen, Milan, and Paris to find designers on the cutting edge of fashion, as well as timeless classics. Our customer-focused store team is in touch with the lifestyles of the active, accomplished, and fashion-conscious woman, and we provide her with what she wants; fashionable options and expert styling services.

Connecting with the Tootsies community in person is part of our DNA, and we love hosting events for local charities, organizations, and our customers. Our parties are always incredible events and are the perfect combination of fashion, philanthropy, and fun. We also have private styling/shopping options before or after regular business hours to fit into that active woman's busy schedule. 

Why do you think Tootsies has withstood the test of time in Houston?

Above all, Tootsies is about people - our customers, staff, the designers whose brands we carry and host in the store. We have withstood the test of time because, for decades, we connect with people. We have had the privilege of dressing multi-generational Houston families for everyday life and special life moments. We believe in head-to-toe dressing for all of life's moments.

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