After 21 years in Los Angeles, boutique owner Desiree Kohan is heading to New York Fashion Week to support the independent designers who define her store's unique, curated approach.

Desiree Kohan, owner of the Los Angeles boutique Des Kohan, is attending New York Fashion Week this September to support independent designers, including Ashlyn, Maria McManus, and High Sport. Kohan has operated her boutique for 21 years, building a reputation for discovery and exclusive, curated fashion. Her return to the fashion week circuit highlights the growing importance of independent retailers as they fill a void left by the consolidation and financial struggles of major department stores.

A Business Built on Curation and Exclusivity

Since opening in 2005, Des Kohan has maintained a business model centered on exclusivity, with 80% of the store's inventory consisting of hard-to-find designers or pieces reworked specifically for the boutique. Kohan, who previously worked as a trend forecaster in Milan, collaborates directly with designers on fabrications and silhouettes. This approach has allowed the store to avoid sales and markdowns entirely, a rare feat in the retail industry. The business has seen gross sales grow 20% annually over the past five years, with e-commerce accounting for only 15% of total revenue.

Deepening Relationships with Designers and Clients

Kohan’s influence is driven by a focus on one-to-one selling and a loyal VIP base, which accounts for 55% of her revenue. She manages a group of approximately 80 VIP clients who receive early access to merchandise and personalized styling services. Additionally, Kohan provides personal shopping services for 23 members of the Saudi royal family. Designers often rely on Kohan’s feedback, as her direct interactions with clients provide valuable insights into consumer needs, helping them refine their collections.