When Susan Porter took the interest and initiative to fashion herself a new skirt, she never expected it to become a professional passion. From that first homemade garment came a realization of every woman’s desire—clothes that really fit. The perfect size, the perfect color and fabric, the perfect length and shape. The idea was…well, perfect.
Cutting Out The PatternAfter seeing the initial skirt, a friend remarked, “That would make a great business.” Susan began to contemplate her business plan and how she would create her own specialty niche in the fashion industry. Susan and her associate, Dianne Anderson, were able to get their hands on a wonderful supply of the finest European fabrics. They went to work measuring each woman for the perfect fit and allowing them to personally select the fabric, color and length. This revolutionary business idea allowed women to customize their couture. Customers try on sample muslin skirts, and changes are made to these as necessary to achieve a great fit. Les Jupes (or skirts, in French) gained rapid notoriety and Susan received more and more orders. It was at this time she realized she needed to make some changes. A Knot In The ThreadWith so much new business, Susan decided to transform her company from a private retail store to internet sales, trunk shows and supply to highend fashion boutiques. With newfound success and wanting to shift gears, Susan needed some expert advice on manufacturing demand and fulfillment and web site creation. Haidee Stith of the South Carolina Women’s Business Center (SCWBC) contacted Susan to assess her needs and suggest a contact that could assist in streamlining the business. A Stitch In TimeThe Women’s Business Center put Susan in touch with Clemson University Apparel Research. The Apparel Research team immediately began working on skirt patterns and producing garments to meet Susan’s demand and her customers’ specifications. The pride and quality in workmanship of each piece was evident. The team is also assisting Susan in the establishment of an effective web site in which to feature Les Jupes couture. Sewing It All TogetherThe SCWBC’s assistance in introducing Les Jupes to Clemson Apparel Research has further skyrocketed the success of Les Jupes’ clothing lines. In business now for three years, Susan is looking to further expand product offerings to include a broader line of skirts, cashmere sweaters and camisoles. While skirts are currently available in four or five popular styles with an unlimited number of lengths, the current goal is to continue adding even more popular skirt designs to the repertoire. Les Jupes apparel is suitable for all women from ages 16 to 90, with the core client base in the 30-50 age range. Pricing starts at $200 and goes up to $1,500, depending on skirt design and fabric choice. With its current success and projected growth patterns, it is certain the Les Jupes dream will be realized and the couture’s popularity will continue to soar. “The great fun in this business is in finding the beautiful fabrics, but moreover in assisting a client in creating a work of art to wear that actually fits,” says Porter. Les Jupes
82 Church Street
Charleston, SC 29401
843-723-3274 |
Success Stories 
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The SC Women's Business Center is a program of the SC Manufacturing Extension Partnership, with management, oversight and support provided by SCMEP and its resources.