Pictured: Isabel Lacy, hosting the store's private opening. Photo Courtesy of Nancy Guth

Meet Isabel Lacy, the founder and visionary behind Isabel. As shopping shifts from brick-and-mortar stores to online platforms, Lacy has reimagined the in-person shopping experience, creating a space that rekindles the joy of browsing. With a luxurious, calming atmosphere and a deep passion for fashion and customer connection, Isabel offers a refreshing take on retail. Originally from Indianapolis, Lacy moved to Los Angeles to pursue fashion marketing at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. After graduating, she sought a vibrant community to establish her life and business. Her fond childhood visits to Sarasota inspired her decision to launch Isabel here. Now, a trip to Main Street invites you to unwind while discovering the perfect, timeless addition to your wardrobe at Isabel.

What inspired you to create Isabel, and how does your vision for the boutique reflect your personal philosophy on fashion?

I've always loved fashion and interior design. I wanted to establish a space where people could come have a luxurious shopping experience while also exploring something that was personally curated. I believe in creating what I call a “forever wardrobe.” Growing up, I always struggled with basics and finding timeless pieces that you could buy, and were great quality. So, that was where I startedhelping people build “forever wardrobes.” Don’t get me wrong, I adore playful patterns and vibrant pieces because those are fun and you need good fun pieces too. I want to provide a little bit of everything that you can keep forever, in a place that feels beautiful.

Share one of your business bucket list items.

My biggest goal for Isabel is to scale my business into the e-commerce space and on social media. My plan has been to post on social media every day, really finding videos that speak to other people, and making sure I continue helping people find clothes they love. If they're looking for earrings, for example, I try to style different things together to catch people’s attention via social media.

What do you hope customers feel or take away after visiting your boutique?

I want to create a relationship with every client that comes into Isabel. When customers come in, I want to talk to them and understand what they are looking for to enhance their experience. In the boutique we have a little lounging space, where we offer champagne or wine so people can sit down, relax and shop. It's not just about coming in and shopping, it is about creating that good experience for our customers and building a community within Isabel.

What podcast are you listening to that is inspiring you in your business life?

I love The Skinny Confidential. They dive into everything about life, but it always ties back to entrepreneurs. On their episodes, they bring on guest entrepreneurs from different industries which I like because it helps you learn from a huge range of people. They brought on Dan Martell on an episode where he shared his story and highlighted time management and the idea of “buying back your time.” Their topics range from health to finance to even fashion but you learn something from every person about how it could communicate and relate to your business.

What books are you reading now that expand your business perception?

I am definitely more of a podcast girl, but I love books. Recently I sat down to read Day Trading Attention by Gary Vaynerchuk. He talks a lot about social media and organic marketing, which ties into how you market today. I loved that book because it helps you learn how to grab the attention of a big crowd of people and build a brand that stands out. It's essentially a blueprint for e-commerce. So I love that book and I think that it is great for everyone–you learn so much about social media and just things that you wouldn't have thought about. 

1985 Main Street, Sarasota.

Pictured: Isabel Lacy, hosting the store's private opening. Photo Courtesy of Nancy Guth

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