Three Westport stores celebrate milestone anniversaries
40 and Fabulous
Women’s fashion store, Tina Dragone is celebrating 40 years in business. The first store opened in the fall of 1983, in Orange, CT. Then, in 1999, they moved to Westport.
“My dream was to have a location in Westport and in 1999 I was given that opportunity,” CEO Tina Dragone said.
After college and being accepted into the Macy’s NY Buyer Training Program, Dragone knew she didn’t want to live in the corporate world. Dragone opened Tina Dragone in 1983 because of her love of fashion and making women feel beautiful. The selection of merchandise is directly influenced by Dragone’s taste and style of clothing.
“The merchandise changes constantly due to the latest fashion trends, and I love to keep the store looking fresh and new,” Dragone said.
Future plans are is to keep bringing in new designer merchandise from all over the world and staying current with fashion trends for every season. Dragone feels so grateful for the Westport community and would not have been able to remain successful for 40 years without it.
“Westport has some of the most beautiful women and I am so grateful for their loyalty and those who patronize my business weekly. My customers constantly tell me how thrilled they are to have a store like mine in the community.”
Website: tinadragone.com Instagram: @tinadragoneclothing
Cheers to 25!
Artistex Salon & Spa is celebrating its 25th year anniversary. Sole owner and Fairfield County native, Odete DaSilva opened the salon in 1999. The store outgrew its first location and moved to the more recent location in 2019, 260 Post Road East. The new location opened just a year before COVID shutdown.
“Not ideal timing to say the least,” Owner Odete DaSilva said.
DaSilvia is a Goldwell Academy Artist in NYC where hairstylists from all over North America come to learn her coloring techniques.
She was inspired to open Artistex Salon & Spa to have an inclusive and professional salon.
“I wanted to come to work in a space that made everyone feel good, both workers and customers,” said DaSilva.
Artistex Salon & Spa is a Green Circle Salon member providing traditional and organic services while responsibly repurposing and recycling waste.
“I am committed to continue evolving as more of a sustainable business.”
In honor of its 25th anniversary, the salon is planning on launching their membership services.
“Without the Westport community, Artistex Salon & Spa wouldn’t be in business. We owe everything to the support of the community and especially the clients we’ve had now for almost 25 years!” DaSilva said.
Website: artistexsalon.com Instagram: @artistexsalonspa
A Toast to 15
Millie Rae’s started as pop-up shop in owner and founder Cheryl Sugel’s home. When her children left for college, she opened the shop, now located at 1011 Post Road, East.
“My whole career has been in retail. I was a buyer for a major department store prior to starting my family. Once my children were off to college, I opened the store to keep myself busy, explore my passion for home decor and fashion,” Sugel said.
Millie Raes began 15 years ago as a refurbished vintage furniture store but as the business grew and customers’ needs and tastes changed, they evolved to fit the needs of their clients.
“Our mix of merchandise is a combination of casual and elegant style,” said Sugel.
In honor of 15 years, Millie Rae’s gave away gift certificates, treats, gifts and special discounts.
“So many friendly faces that have supported us from the beginning, came out to celebrate,” she said.
With 15 years under Sugel’s belt, she looks back at the wonderful years and is excited for what is to come.
“We aspire every day to be the best that we can be. To keep our merchandise assortment new and exciting; to offer professional and friendly customer service and to make the in-person shopping experience a pleasure.”
Website: millieraes.com Instagram: : @millie_raes