ReTales: Candace Berry, U.S. Retail Coordinator for Fornarina

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Candace Berry has been part of the United States Fornarina family since they first set up shop in L.A. Working with the internationally known brand has its perks: Berry frequents Italy to preview new collections before performing the buy, and attended The Urban Beauty Show in Paris last spring to help style new spokesmodel Lindsay Lohan. The Italian lifestyle brand utilizes collab opportunities with the likes of Dutch tattoo artist Angelique Houtkamp, Japanese manga artist Junko Mizuno, and Japanese-inspired lifestyle brand Tokidoki. With all the international influences molding the brand, Berry enjoys translating it to the US retail scene.

Why this store, here on Melrose?
The owners opened this store eight years ago as the U.S. Flagship Store. Melrose wasn't highly developed at the time, but they anticipated it would become a retail destination spot, and they were right. It’s a good location and very central to L.A.

What's been flying off the shelves?
Our Guendalena boot in Dust. They have a medium heel and round toe, and the neutral color goes with everything. They did a complete sell-through within a week and we had to order more.

What are you most excited about in-store right now that maybe isn't flying off the shelves?
We just started getting spring/summer '09 arrivals, but L.A. just got cold! People are only now committing to buy new winter clothes, so spring isn't flying off the shelves yet. But having spring/summer in-store so early gives the customer more options to choose from, which is always a good thing.

You have $100 to shop anywhere in L.A.—where do you go?
Babies 'R' Us, or a day spa for a prenatal massage. I'm expecting my first child.

Make that $1,000.
An online shopping spree for designer maternity jeans. I can't wear my favorite jeans anymore, and I love great denim, so I could definitely put that to some good use.

Do you know where can I get a satin trouser gown?
Derek Lam?