STUDIO LUXE:
A Welcoming Boutique for One and All
The new location for Studio Luxe at 92 Main Street in Warrenton affords customers a larger browsing space.
Studio Luxe owner Brandi Norrell thrives on fashion and looking your best.
T
One of the popular items at Studio Luxe are these fun, furry pom-pom slippers with a sole hearty enough that you could wear them to the grocery store if you’re in a stylin’ mood.
By Anita L. Sherman
here’s a bright spot at 92 Main Street in Old Town Warrenton. Bright in many ways. The space at Studio Luxe, a women’s boutique, is open, inviting and cheery. And the owner, Brandi Norrell, is bubbly and effusive. Her smile says it all. She loves what she does and it shows.
Opened in 2019, her retail establishment has quickly become a community favorite for finding trendy, sophisticated, sparkly and fun clothing and accessories. And the price tags won’t break the budget. Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Norrell has called Virginia home for the last 20 years. She created a buzz in Warrenton when she first opened at 9 S. Fifth Street. That location now houses her second shop, Little Luxe, catering to younger fashionistas. “I know girls’ fashion,” said Norrell speaking of young and older women. “It needs to be fun and playful, whether you’re a size extra small or plus-size. We all deserve to feel beautiful and good about ourselves.” Norrell usually greets each customer by their first name and her shop is a feelgood place to visit. That’s how Norrell wants it. “It’s about building relationships and connecting with the community,” she said, “everybody feels welcome and there’s always something here to find.” Working with more than a hundred vendors, Norrell’s scouting trips often include Atlanta and California. “I buy what I like,” she said. And what she likes resonates as the racks are filled with colorful dresses, skirts, slacks, blouses, and wraps in a variety of styles, textures and fabrics. If a holiday is approaching, there are sparkly tops. Sunglasses, headbands, hats, purses, scarves and jewelry abound Fashion has always been in her blood, and opening Studio Luxe was a leap of faith.
Owner Brandi Norrell has two locations in Old Town. Studio Luxe and Little Luxe for younger girls.
Step inside Studio Luxe at 92 Main Street. You won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for a boutique bargain.
“I hadn’t done retail before,” said Norrell, who’s educational background includes an MBA in strategic leadership. She did a lot of work in youth advocacy and coaching and still maintains Cheers To Today, a motivational social media site offering inspirational messages to kick start your day. A visit to Studio Luxe excites the senses. There’s plenty to see and touch, soft, jazzy music in the background and calming scented candles. And, if you need to ponder a decision or chat with a friend, there’s a welcoming couch that offers a cozy haven. It’s all part of the ambiance. The walls are graced with inspirational and fun framed quotes all available for purchase. At the same time that she moved Studio Luxe to 92 Main Street in October 2021, Norrell opened Little Luxe, similar in style but catering to young girls. “We opened both at the same time…and it’s been great,” she said of her staff of eight part-time employees who rotate between the two locations. While both boutiques are clearly focused on the ladies, there are a number of male customers…all those husbands, brothers and boyfriends who know where to shop. “Wish List” parties make gift giving easy. Studio Luxe also hosts “sip and shop” gathering events throughout the year and “pop-ups” where they will have a presence at other locations. Norrell is a shining example of a successful, woman owned business. Her light is reflected in her entrepreneurial savvy and style...her unique panache. “When you walk in and look around…this is what the inside of my heart looks like, how it makes me feel,” she said. Studio Luxe, Women’s Boutique, 92 Main Street, Warrenton. Monday-Thursday, 105; Friday, 10-6; Saturday, 10-4; Sunday, 12-4. Little Luxe, Tween Boutique, 9 S. Fifth Street, Warrenton, VA. Thursday, 10-5; Friday, 10-6; Saturday, 10-4; Sunday, 12-4.
Country ZEST & Style | Winter 2022
29
