Copyright Santa Rosa Press Democrat
A new women’s clothing boutique focused on natural fibers and unique designs is now open in Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square. The Leeza boutique opened last month at 111 Fourth St. next to Cokas Diko Home Furnishings. It’s stocked with jewelry, accessories and colorful clothing branded as “clothing for artists.” Owner Lisa Finkelstein started her brand, Leeza888, about 10 years ago, producing her funky clothing in small batches with the help of a team in India. She also stocks the boutique with clothes from other brands that match her aesthetic. “Most everything is one of a kind here,” Finkelstein said. “You can find things here that you can’t find anywhere else.” Finkelstein has been in the fashion industry for four decades, once working with her ex-husband as a wholesale clothes buyer. About 15 years ago, she was on a work trip to India where she met her pattern maker, Shagir, who took Finkelstein’s design ideas and brought them to life. She has worked with Shagir ever since. According to her website, Finkelstein began by selling online and at a few popups in Los Angeles and Santa Cruz where she spent most of her life. She wound up closing her previous business, Leeza888, in Santa Cruz. Finkelstein had planned to open a boutique in Los Angeles but she said she changed those plans after a friend who lives in Santa Rosa encouraged her to come to Sonoma County. It was around that time that Finkelstein was diagnosed with leukemia. Finkelstein said she has been given a warm reception at Railroad Square with people commenting on social media about how beautiful and unique the clothing is. As for the boutique’s future, Finkelstein said her goal is to stay healthy and continue selling the clothes she loves. She said she is also open to stocking local jewelry and accessories that match the quality standards of her other pieces. “Now I’m just hoping I can manage all of my symptoms enough to stay open and working and doing what I love,” Finkelstein said.
