SIGNATURE STYLE

Women from all over the Western Suburbs and beyond know KRISTI SMITH. With a signature style, she has been at the reins of Hinsdale’s women’s luxury clothing store, Sweet William, as the owner for almost 10 years but has been dressing fashion aficionados here for close to 20. She’s sewn together a team of expert stylists who value forming relationships with their shoppers, so customers leave not only looking their best but feeling their best, too.

What does the idea of power mean to you? Someone once said to me that passion is power. I love fashion and I love dressing women; making them feel great about themselves. It boosts their self-confidence and helps them express their personality through fashion. My team feels the same way, and through this collaboration of passion, we are powerful. Following my passion has also allowed me to be more powerful in the community. Not just to our customers but supporting those in need as well.

What meaningful lesson did you learn in your first job? My first job taught me to pay attention to detail. Presentation is an important aspect of my career. From the hand stitching on a beautifully tailored jacket from Italy to the gauge of a fine cashmere sweater, it all matters. Our customers expect quality and I provide that to them with the detail.

How can this generation of leaders support the next generation of leaders? I believe being accessible, open to questions, and leading by example are the besttaught lessons for the next generation. My daughters are constantly supporting me and cheering me on, and I see them doing the same with their friends. It makes me so proud.

For more information, visit sweetwilliamhinsdale.com.