Art is never finished, only abandoned. Leonardo da Vinci nailed it a long time ago with that one. Little did he know Victoria Lindley of Muse Apparel would personify the Renaissance man’s famous words while making a “bold and naïve” move into the CenPho fashion scene in 2005.
Victoria opened Muse Apparel, the on-trend fashion boutique, just more than a decade ago and has been “dressing hot desert babes since.” The better priced, contemporary clothing store shines bright in its relatively new space in Uptown Plaza— the renovated über hot spot of Central Phoenix. MUSE’s whimsical signage effortlessly communicates the urban, boho vibe of the boutique — a long-time fave of fashionistas Valley wide.
My recent visit to MUSE began with what I call, “merch research.” My diligence paid off— hello, vintage concert tee and mixed hem jeans. Welcome to the fam! After indulging, I was prepared to concentrate and got down to biz with Victoria. I asked what’s flying out of her store for holiday and what she’s anticipating for spring.
Victoria told me velvet fabrics and plaid prints for pants are solid for winter. She’s selling an abundance of holiday themed graphic sweaters (WILDFOX and The Laundry Room) and flared jeans (HUDSON and AG) are in and super flattering.
Come spring, floral prints (dresses) and wearable fabrics will be trending for MUSE’s selection of contemporary designers including: SPELL & THE GYPSEY, LNA, STILLWATER, One Teaspoon and more.
While Victoria and I chatted outside her store about styles and her formal education as an artist (once abandoned, but now resurrected through fashion) it was heartwarming to watch MUSE fans (no reference to Matt Bellamy) pass by repeatedly and greet Victoria. It’s clear the small business owner connects with her clients and her community— which she says is the best part of her job. Victoria is inspired by the “small town in the big city” feel of Central Phoenix and is thankful she was embraced so graciously when she first opened her boutique’s door.
Victoria’s chill and happy energy resonates beyond Central Phoenix— MUSE was called out in Phoenix New Times: ‘BEST OF’ shopping and services a few years back. Reflective of Victoria’s commitment to her clientele, she says she buys at market while keeping her longtime customers in mind with every purchase— accessories included.
Accessories are big at MUSE. Fashion jewelry is well positioned in the store, subtly suggesting how to finish a look. MUSE carries one of my go-to LA designers, Vanessa Mooney (LOVE LOVE LOVE! Check INSTA for my latest Mooney purchase) and a mix of in-season delicate jewelry made for layering; chokers and lariats.
Over-the-knee cozy sock, soft travel wraps, delicious smelling candles, and a small collection of kids clothing round out the boutique’s inventory— all fab gifts for anytime of the year.
The day I visited MUSE to interview Victoria, I lingered longer than I should have. I couldn’t help myself. The store is exceptionally welcoming and filled with so much style goodness, I wanted to scoop up almost every piece. But then, I quickly recalled what I preach to my littles: the holidays are a time to give, not get. Absolutely.
However, gotta call “Bah Humbug!” just this once— “merch research” part deux is whispering my name. Oh, how I love my job.
