Bruno Luce offers exclusive shopping, various events
by Samantha Lumpkin
New shopping options and experiences are popping up in Independence. Elizabeth DiFiore has opened a clothing boutique focused on affordable and sustainable clothing, shoes, jewelry and handbags.
“I always knew I would do something related to fashion and helping others,” DiFiore said, “it had to be different than what was already out there.”
The new shop, Bruno Luce, had its soft opening in February at 6916 Daisy Ave. There are not regular business hours, instead customers can book appointments or attend monthly events.
All items in the store are from overstock and third-party liquidators all over the world with a focus on DiFiore’s European connections. Discounted prices are 50-80% off full price.
“My clients find clothes fit well and are high quality when they’re from Europe,” DiFiore said.
The store is based on New York’s sample sale in which shoppers would fight for high-end runway pieces at a low cost. DiFiore wants to turn this idea on its head with her own personal touch. She offers high fashion at low prices with a focus on personalization.
Her business started as a pop-up model. DiFiore would have new pieces every month and include a secret item to build anticipation. This helped build her brand and build clientele. Something White, the bridal store next door, hosted her pop-up, which alerted DiFiore to the vacancy in the building.
Affordability and sustainability are key values of Bruno Luce. DiFiore said she wants to tailor to her customers’ budget while diverting waste from the landfills.
Personal shopping appointments do not carry a fee and DiFiore offers closet organizing for $50 per hour. Private parties solely for shopping do not have a fee unless food and drink are provided. Before a private party, guests are sent a survey to learn more about them.
“This helps to make sure we provide a wide range of pieces in their size, style and price point for the event,” DiFiore said.
DiFiore graduated from the dual degree program between Ursuline College and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
“I wanted the pieces to be black and white, chic, classic with a twist, and very ‘New York,’” she said.
Her senior collection was called “Bruno Luce” which means “dark and light” in Italian.
DiFiore’s family assists her both in store and beyond. “My mother helps me every day either in the store to sort merchandise and price items or watch my 4-year-old daughter. I couldn’t do it without her,” she said.
The mother-daughter duo worked together in the past as managers at Nordstrom. They also worked at Stitch Fix. Said DiFiore, “My sister and daughter help me constantly, too.”
The events at Bruno Luce vary widely. A local mom’s group brought their own food and craft, and then shopped the curated pieces in the store. The shop was an optional private shopping experience for a lawyer’s conference. A denim event focused on helping women find denim they like to wear.
Other women-owned businesses partner with Bruno Luce to cater and add pop-up flash sales to events hosted at the store.
“I’m open to ideas,” said DiFiore. One-on-one appointments, small private shopping experiences or getting that closet in shape all are within Bruno Luce’s services. Appointments are made at brunoluce.com.
Photo caption: Elizabeth DiFiore, the founder of Bruno Luce offers clothing from overstock and third party liquidators all over the world. Photo submitted.