Four year old Harlem fashion boutique, Bebenoir, is great example of a local business that really knows their customers.  Says partner, Mali-born Fatima Doukoure, “We cherish our customers” and claims that she has become “good friends” with many of them.  And you can tell.  This boutique, located at 2164 Frederick Douglas Blvd and 117thSt features African inspired clothes in trendy shapes, t-shirts and jewelry by local designers, and unique accessories for women and men all for under $100.  Fatima and her husband, creative director and designer, Ibrahima Doukoure take pride in offering a great selection and even greater service.  Ibrahima can often be seen working with customers in the fitting room, getting them to try things they never would have tried and putting outfits together in surprising combinations.  The boutique also offers to make anything from the Bebe Noir collection in your size at no additional cost.

Opening in 2005,  Ibrahima and Fatima envisioned a shop exclusively featuring his collection Bebe Noir.  The couple soon realized that the local clientele responded best to a lower pricepoint and varied merchandise.  So the new Bebe Noir was born.  Luckily for Harlem locals, the new direction of the shop retains the original feel and the friendly service remains the same.  Bebe Noir also aims to become a gathering place for local designers.  The recently renovated basement features a design studio with multiple sewing machines and work surfaces available for rent and a small photo studio so designers can take quality photos of current collections.

Things to look forward to at Bebenoir:  Anniversary sale in October which will feature a fantastic raffle, Midnight sale in May,  a new collection with a more classic and traditional fit.