Twenty-year-old Melissa Camarillo is making strides with her fashion brand designed for her generation by her generation.
The young owner and founder of Savvy Roots Boutique, which was originally launched online, is celebrating the grand opening of her first storefront in late August at 2913 Race St. — the former home of Funky Town Lost and Found.
As renovations on the 1,400-square-foot space come to a close, Camarillo is eager to bring together other local, small businesses and introduce guests to her brand.
“Our mission is to bring a diverse shopping experience for all of the trendsetter girls and to the everyday woman,” Camarillo says.
Savvy Roots stocks tops, dresses, skirts, pants, accessories, and other pieces that are intended to become wardrobe staples, as well as trendy styles that are versatile in all seasons.
Camarillo is a proud Fort Worth native who grew up in the River East area. Over the years, she has seen the community support small businesses, so it seemed to be the perfect place to settle the first Savvy Roots storefront.
After graduating high school, the owner’s original plan to pursue college for physical therapy swiftly veered toward her passion for the fashion industry.
“I always wanted to be in the beauty industry, but none of it was something that I was deeply passionate about,” Camarillo says. “I eventually realized that I was heavily invested in the idea of women’s fashion and the way it makes them feel beautiful and confident.”
Looking ahead, she hopes that her achievements will encourage other young women to attempt the road the less traveled.
“Being a young entrepreneur is more than being my own boss,” Camarillo says. “It’s being part of one of the fastest-growing demographics, as well as [being among] young Latina entrepreneurs, where I am able to live the working dream and work against all odds to build a better future.”
To shop Savvy Roots, visit savvyrootsboutique.com.
