An Auburn graduate, Katie Cavanaugh, recently launched Collective Couture, a web based women's and pre-teens clothing store. Collective Couture offers the latest styles in clothing, shoes and accessories.





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After working in a women’s boutique throughout her four years of college, Cavanaugh decided to continue in the clothing industry after graduation.

She moved to Gulf Shores, Ala. and chose to open her own boutique, but more specifically a store that operates exclusively online. Many boutiques in Gulf Shores have closed due to the lack of tourists after the oil spill which also persuaded her not to open up a storefront.

“I personally shop online more than I do on foot, and I feel that more and more people are starting to do the same. When coming up with my business plan I decided it would be much more practical to start out online for many reasons,” Cavanaugh said.

The ongoing expenses of operating a business are much higher if you have a brick and mortar location. She also finds freedom in her daily schedule because she isn’t physically in the store during normal work hours.

Her target audiences are pre-teens, teenagers, college students and professionals. A large percentage of her merchandise is geared toward younger people, but there are plenty of jackets, cardigans and tops for older women.

Cavanaugh wants to keep the prices of her merchandise low especially for college students. CollectiveCouture.com offers dresses ranging from $19-$159.

“Even my grandmother recently purchased a few items from me for herself!” Cavanaugh said.

The second story of her house has recently been transformed into the Collective Couture warehouse. Cavanaugh keeps her computer, shipping supplies and all the clothes in her house while the shoes are kept in a utility room in her garage.

“Right now it’s just me doing the majority of the work. I do everything from stocking inventory, to shipping, to keeping my books,” Cavanaugh said.

The news of CollectiveCouture.com is spreading to women on Auburn’s campus. Cavanaugh is using her Facebook group and Facebook ads to get the attention of students at nearby universities. Many college students are attracted to the section on the website for Auburn, Georgia, Alabama and LSU game day dresses.



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