Shopkeeper Stories: NOLA Couture Captures the Heart and Soul of New Orleans One Print at a Time

Cecile Tanguis, owner of NOLA Couture, started her company with 10 brightly patterned ties and a desire to celebrate New Orleans’ icons. From ties, to dog collars, to prints, to a new women’s ready-to-wear line, Cecile and her team’s vibrant patterns are as recognizable as the icons on her pieces. We sat down with her to discuss the story behind the brand and how she continues to grow NOLA Coutures’ diverse offerings.

Name: Cecile Tanguis
Store: NOLA Couture
Since: Founded 2006, 528 St Peter St. opened in 2012, 3308 Magazine St. opened October 2017

What ignited the spark in you to start your business?
I grew up in New Orleans but lived in San Francisco for a while working in design and merchandising at Gap’s corporate headquarters. After Katrina, I decided to come home and help out. Those few months turned into much longer, and I ended up quitting my job out west and moving home. At that point I was trying to figure out how to do something good for the city—I went to local grocery stores and bought from local shops trying to help our businesses come back.