Sunday, May 24, 2009
Life, In this Issue..., Style

Best foot forward

SP chats with the owner of a new Italian show boutique

By Alison Abbey

Jennifer Dainelli is using her passion for Italian fashion to sell her soles.

What she sells at Jedal: The swanky Phipps Plaza boutique offers a serious selection of über-luxe women’s and men’s Italian footwear by the likes of Carlo Pignatelli, Gianmarco Lorenzi, Gianni Barbato, Barbara Bui, Roberto Cavalli and more. The shop even pedals its own in-house line, Jedal.

When and why did you open the shop?: April 25, 2009 (Italian Independence Day). “My husband, Alessio Dainelli—a native Italian—and I travel back and forth frequently to Italy,” says Dainelli. “In Atlanta, the only high-quality ‘made-in-Italy’ footwear is represented solely in the mega-brands such as Gucci, Fendi, Prada, Armani, etc. There is a niche in Atlanta to be filled for the luxury shopper who seeks unique footwear with incredible attention to detail. Jedal will bring designers less commonly known in the United States who create footwear and accessories with superior craftsmanship and with more creativity and individuality offered at the same price point. Our stylish selection of genuine, high-quality goods, combined with a glamorous shopping experience, will be what makes us stand out among the competition.”

Her biggest challenge: Finding a location that fit with such a unique product.

Favorite items in the shop: "I don’t really have just one favorite—I love them all. The customers come in, and each person falls in love with a different line. They all have their own individuality."

What’s next: "We are going to continue to bring our customers exclusive, cutting-edge styles, new brands and exciting products. We plan to have many more events in the future to constantly educate our customers on the essence of Italian fashion and beauty. In Italy, fashion is such an important part of expressing self pride—to appear totally put together and polished is such an important part of everyday life, so I’d like to express to my customers ways of feeling confident through looking their best." SP
Jedal is located in Phipps Plaza. For more information, call 404-816-3024 or visit www.jedalitalianfashion.com.