So here's the reasoning behind the 5 stars:
*Service- So it's not even a stereotype I'm pushing- there have been many south Asian stores I've been to in the triangle area. I have not made purchases at all of them even though I intended to. The main reason is service. Many times I walk in and people are yapping away on the telephone and can not put the other party on hold as they at least greet me- let alone help me. (I really hope some of the other area shop owners read this!) I'm one of those people who grew up in the states but was born in South Asia and desperately (but most times cluelessly) attempts to keep my background as part of my life via beauty services (i.e. threading), jewelry (i.e. glass bangles, intricate cuffs, unique necklaces), food (i.e. halal meats, traditional desserts), and clothes (lehnga/saree, shalwar/kameeze). There have been so many times I've just given up and worn American dresses to my cousins traditional weddings because I just couldn't find anyone to help me at area stores. I'm just not South Asian savvy so I'm always very clear when I walk in somewhere that "I need help- I have no clue what I'm doing".
This is what I did when I walked into Indus Fashion for the first time a few weeks ago. As soon as they realized I need help they got off the phone and gave me an educational run down of what's what in South Asian style. Not only that but they have unstiched outfits that they can sew based on your measurements (which was super awesome for me because I'm 5'9 with broad shoulders, a small waist, and wide hips whereas most South Asian suits are made for women who are 5'2 and petite in every way). Plus my mom is extra tiny so I sent her there as well. There is nothing quite like wearing something made for you. Their seamstress is almost magical. She is very thorough with her measurements and was very knowledgeable throughout the initial process. We even added some more fun embellishments based on current fashion (dangling jewels, ribbon).
*Price- You can't put a price on service which is why I discussed it first. I paid $300 for two fancy wedding quality shalwar/kameeze stitched to my measurements & specifications with lining and shawl. "A place nearby" was selling outfits already stitched (not to your measurements) for $249 an outfit.
*Follow Through- I have to be honest- I was scared leaving a shop paying $300 and leaving without any clothes. That takes a lot of trust- and what I am saying to you is- I fully trust this team. My outfits were ready in less than 2 weeks. They called me and let me know they were ready. This is the step where you go in and try on your outfits and make sure everything is awesome in terms of fit. If something is off- this is when they will make alterations if necessary. Most likely they will fit like a glove and you'll be on your way with your new clothes and bragging to your friends or on Facebook or yelp ;-)
If I had to give you one additional tip- it would be to ask if you buy 2 outfits they can cut you a deal. It's probably the politest way to...
Read moreIndus Fashions is a fantastic boutique for Indian formal wear and casual wear. My husband and I were recently invited to an Indian Wedding Reception that suggested Indian Formal Party attire. I was so lucky to find Indus Fashions and a lovely woman named Shabana. As soon as I walked in to the shop, I was struck by the beauty, quality and fine selection of ensembles displayed. Shabana quickly put me at ease with her warm welcome and smile. She also put me at ease when I explained my concerns about choosing something that was figure flattering and appropriate for any customs I might not be familiar with. Shabana had no problem pulling at least 7 outfits for me to try in a variety of styles and colors. This gave me a chance to really choose rather than settle on something given my size is large or extra large. Compared to other places I had been, the clothing had finer fabric, embroidery, and size selection. Working with Shabana, I felt like I was on TLC's "Yes to the Dress"...she really helped find the one outfit that fit me so well, flattered my figure, skin color and felt like it was "my dress" made for me...that feeling of feeling more pretty, more beautiful and more confident came over me. It was truly "Yes to the Dress" customer service and experience. Attentive, personal, aimed at making the customer look and feel their best in fine clothing at a reasonable price. Thank you so much Shabana and Indus Fashions, we will be back for my husband's formal wear and my daughter's...
Read moreI needed a couple of pieces altered on a tight and hard deadline and decided to bring them here based on a recommendation. I had a man's regular-fit kurta that I needed tailored to a slim fit and a woman's kameez that I needed altered from a medium to size small. The owner, who does the alterations, is extremely knowledgable and gave a lot of suggestions on how to alter the clothes in a way that wouldn't ruin the beauty. She got the alterations done on time and they were perfection! Her prices are extremely reasonable - a great value for the quality of work. I'm currently gathering more clothes to take to her. Her work is SO good. The store is a little overstuffed and chaotic with merchandise, which is why I'm giving this four instead of five star. However, the service and quality of tailoring is a...
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