Passione Boutique
Passione Boutique is tailor made for the recessionista in all of us—the woman who loves to spend and enhance her wardrobe but still has a firm desire to be frugal in these tough times of ours. Rita Diste, a native of Ischia Italy, opened Passione Boutique in La Jolla in June. This very warm and charming store is located in the Fay Center, next door to the Empress Hotel. It sits at the end of a cobblestone walkway flanked by flowers. “Hopefully when you visit the store, you’ll feel as if you’re coming in to see one of your girlfriends at her house, ” Diste says in her wonderfully-accented English.
After giving a lot of thought to what brands of clothing she should carry in this rocky economy, Diste says she knew that there was one clothing line women in San Diego would love–List.
Based in Rome, List’s claim to fame is that their designs resemble the best-loved Italian designers—Prada, Moschino, and Gucci—at a quarter of the price. Using a team of young designers, who keep their eyes on fashion trends, List has been a successful brand around the world for many years. Adding it’s own unique twist on designs, List maintains quality while keeping prices reasonable.
Passione Boutique carries the prêt-a-porte collection. The spring and summer line is filled with vibrant color. There is very little black; all the pieces are meant to blend together to build one great wardrobe. “The line works especially well for San Diego because it easily transitions from season to season.” Diste says.
Passione Boutique offers the look of Italy without the price tag. Savvy shoppers will be happy to know that this store is the only place in the US to find List.
Take a little trip to Rome without leaving San Diego and visit your Italian girlfriend Rita Diste at Passione Boutique in La Jolla.