Mai Olivo (left) had a dream, a yen and a zen to open her own fashion boutique…and succeeded.

The 28-year-old, married California native, web developer and wardrobe stylist, began Shop Ruche.com in 2008 as a “modern women’s boutique with a vintage touch,” and  has drawn the raves of fashionistas and trendy women seeking new, in-style, affordably-priced clothing and accessories, “inspired by a vintage look.”

We thank Mai for taking time out of her busy schedule to participate in the Interview, and be sure to check her out her blog, Ruche.

Fashion Time: Could you tell us a little bit about your background, Mai?

Mai Olivo: I am 28-years-old, happily married, have a 4-legged fur ball that is pretty much my only child for now. I still have a full time job as a web developer, the rest of my time is spent on Ruche.

Fashion Time: You are a wardrobe stylist. What exactly does a wardrobe stylist do?

Mai Olivo: I kind of fell into it when I was looking for models and photographers for my lookbook. Now I just do it as a hobby when people need styling for special photo concepts or magazines. Since I have a huge wardrobe with plenty of different sizes from Ruche, I can easily supply complete unique outfits for photography / fashion projects.

Fashion Time: Describe the vision behind the Ruche store?

Mai Olivo: I started Ruche because I couldn’t find a store that had that nostalgic and a vintage-inspired look for an affordable price. I love the hopeless romantic style and all of the stuff in the store.

Fashion Time: Describe the type of woman who shops at Ruche?

Mai Olivo: I’d say she doesn’t want to look like the girl next door, but wants to express herself as romantic and feminine in a vintage way. It doesn’t really matter how old she is, just that she carries vintage trends in a modern way.

Fashion Time: Which fashion shows do you follow to keep abreast of the latest trends in style?

Mai Olivo: I get most of my inspiration from fashion magazines and a variety of blog sites.

Fashion Time: What is the hottest Retro look of the year?

Mai Olivo: I think those harem pants are coming back this year in a big way. If they are worn responsibly, they actually look good. Maybe I will get some on Ruche soon.

Fashion Time: What labels do you buy from and how do you decide what shoe styles to carry?

Mai Olivo: I hand pick all of my items from mostly boutique lines. On occasion I will carry a brand name item if the pricing fits the store concept. I try to pick shoe styles that fit well with other items in my store to create perfect outfits. I am quite picky with my shoes because you can buy cheap shoes from anywhere. They need to be comfortable and unique.

Fashion Time: What are some of your favorite styles in stock right now?

Mai Olivo: I really like the organic items, we should all do what we can to protect our earth. Other than that, I am in love with all the new spring dresses.

Fashion Time: Who are your favorite designers?

Mai Olivo: I don’t really have a favorite designer, I like some pieces from many designers. My favorite designers are all of the zillions of bloggers who are so creative at making super cute outfits with random pieces of clothing they find. I love digging through blog posts and looking at user submitted outfit photos.

Fashion Time: What upcoming trends do you like for the spring?

Mai Olivo: I love spring and summer fabrics, in particular linen. Mini floral printed clothes will be in, and ruffles too. A girl can never have enough ruffles.

Fashion Time: Which trends do you wish would just vanish from the face of the earth?

Mai Olivo: I am a fan of gladiator sandals, but I can’t stand the ones that go all the way up to the knee. Knee high gladiators just don’t look good, even when worn responsibly.

Fashion Time: What is that special something every woman should have in her closet?

Mai Olivo: A good strapless slip, preferably fitted to enhance assets. Then she can always wear it under any dress.

Fashion Time: If you were down to your last $10, what would you buy?

Mai Olivo: As much as I love clothes, I think my last $10 would be spent on a chipolata burrito bowl and a cup of yogurt with fruit on top. Other than that, I would probably buy Revlon liquid eyeliner (I can’t live without it).

Fashion Time: What is the worst experience you had in fashion?

Mai Olivo: I bought a dress from a department store for a wedding and didn’t realize it had a stain around the butt area. It was quite embarrassing when people started noticing at the wedding, I pretty much sat in my chair the entire time.

Fashion Time: Can you tell us about your own personal style? What do you like to wear, Mai?

Mai Olivo: As much as I love dresses, my favorite outfit is skinny jeans with a pair of boots and a cute top. I love to accessorize with earrings, scarves, and large rings.

Fashion Time: So, what does the future hold for you?

Mai Olivo: I want to continue to grow Ruche. It was only launched in July 2008, but the response from so many people gives me fuel to continue expanding. Maybe one day I can make this a full time job and open a store front for everyone to come and visit!

Images Credit: Mai Olivo