San Diegans flock to Del Mar’s Matti D boutique for wardrobe revamps, styling services and closet edits. We got to chat with owner Jax McIntosh as the store celebrates 20 years in business.
What’s changed at Matti D since opening 20 years ago? It has to be the customer service craze. I’ve even met customers at the airport. And we do a lot of out-of-state appointments, so we’re able to help people outside the area thanks to social media. The thing that’s stayed the same is our connection with clients, the close bond we have. We’ve known some for 20 years and our services have stayed the same in terms of closet edits and packing for trips.
What’s the wildest item of clothing you’ve found when clearing out a client’s closet? I think it’s really fun when I get to see classic pieces from Matti D from years ago. When it’s a Matti D piece, it still holds up after all these years.
Where do you step out for lunch when you’re working? I go to Cucina Enoteca for something fun and different. Cucina and Matti D have similar aesthetics in that way. I always get their chopped salad and add olives.
What’s the best perk of owning a boutique? My staff is like family to me; I absolutely love them and I always think of them as owners in the business. You build relationships within a business and get to know people; as far as clients go it’s the same thing. I always say Matti D is one of those places where you have a good time, think about life and laugh—we’ve had clients stay here for 10 hours.
How do you know your work is done when styling a client? It’s just a feeling you get when people feel good about themselves. When someone comes out of the fitting room and has that face, there’s a sort of bond that’s created when styling somebody. 2689 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, mattidstyle.com
Photography by: Jay Reilly
