Fidel Montoya of SILVERFLY
It is Charlotte Fashion Guild's mission to support, promote and acknowledge individuals and businesses that positively impact the fashion industry of Charlotte, North Carolina. We are interviewing these individuals about their businesses, life and the industry.
For our first published interview, Charlotte Fashion Guild is featuring Fidel Montoya, owner of SILVERFLY. SILVERFLY is Charlotte's favorite all men's boutique, catering to urban professionals who have confidence, class and style. Shoppers will find anything from wallets and belts to blazers and bow ties in the well design SILVERFLY. I had the pleasure of meeting Fidel a little over six months ago when my company was producing an event at Label, Charlotte's biggest and baddest nightclub. I was not sure what to expect when meeting with Fidel. I had heard his name mentioned a countless number of times at different social events and had even spotted him across the room surrounded by a crowd of people. Fidel was always carrying himself with class, had amazing style and he was always sporting a warm smile. When we finally had the pleasure of meeting face to face, I was glad to see that his warmhearted nature was not only his professional persona but it was in his nature. Fidel is the model of how every boutique owner needs to carry themselves. He is kind, supportive and provides Charlotte with amazing clothing that he is proud to carry. I got the chance to interview Mr. Montoya himself. Here is what he had to say:
1. How long have you been actively working in the Charlotte fashion industry?
We opened SILVERFLY a little over a year ago on November 1st. It’s hard to believe it’s been a year; but in that year, we have become entrenched in Charlotte fashion and love every aspect of it.
2. What do you enjoy about working in Charlotte?
The aspect I enjoy most in working in Charlotte is the people. Everyone in Charlotte is supportive of the community and supportive of the businesses. Charlotte is growing and there’s a lot of opportunity in fashion. People are moving here from not only from the North East but also from all parts of the country. They bring new ideas, new talent, and push the envelope in fashion.
3. What is the most challenging thing about owning/operating a boutique? How have you overcome this obstacle?
The biggest challenge in owning a boutique is defining yourself as a business. You want to be everything for everyone, but that does not always make sense. By listening to our customers, asking questions and trying different things, SILVERFLY is learning who our customers are and evolving along with them.
4. When did you realize that you were passionate about fashion?
My passion for fashion was realized when I began working with all the people behind the scenes. It not just about the products we sell, it’s about the people. I enjoy working with the vendors, the photographers, the models, the marketers, the producers, the designers, the stylists, and of course SILVERFLY’s customers.
5. Who is your favorite designer and why?
One of my favorite designers is parke & ronen. I’m partial to designers I get to meet in person. I’ve met Parke on several occasions during the buying shows and it’s interesting to talk with him and learn the inspiration behind the lines.
6. What accomplishments are you most proud of?
Our brand is the accomplishment I am most proud of. We started SILVERFLY from the ground up -everything from the name, the interiors, the website, the overall look and feel. When people come in for the first time and tell us how much they love the store, I really have a sense of accomplishment.
7. Do you think that Charlotte would benefit from a fashion district closer to center city? Why or Why not?
It would only make sense that Charlotte would benefit from a fashion district closer to the center of the city. The center is the heart of the city bringing people together in business, sports, arts and fashion.
8. You are very active in the community. How do you show your support for locally owned and operated businesses?
We are supportive of all things local to North Carolina. SILVERFLY offers items designed, manufactured or have ties locally. We carry socks made in High Point, we carry Raleigh Denim, made in Raleigh. There are two women here in Charlotte that makes some of SILVERFLY’s jewelry. I carry a line of jeans made near the University area and a line of bags made in NODA. Another example of this is the Electric MVMT company was started from three guys that went to App State, we sell their electric hoodies. Supporting local is the best way for SILVERFLY to be active in the community.
9. What changes would you like to see in the Charlotte Fashion Industry?
A change I would like to see in the Charlotte Fashion Industry is greater consolidation of events and promotions. There are so many great ideas, good promoters, and creative designers and awesome boutiques. If we could combine efforts, ideas and interests, we could make a bigger splash for Charlotte.
Published by;
Ryan Philemon
Co-Founder of Charlotte Fashion Guild.
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