The End of an Era: Bidding Farewell to Dazzle Boutique

Tomorrow is the Grand Closing event for Dazzle Boutique – a staple in both my pageant career, and my personal life, as longtime family friend and founder, Laurye Natale, has served as a mentor, stylist, a shoulder to cry on, director and more to the Connecticut Pageant World!

Today I’m taking a walk down memory lane, commemorating the impact that Laurye and the entire Dazzle team has had on me, and the Connecticut Pageantry community! And as a special bonus, several #DazzleGirls have shared their own photos and Dazzle Boutique moments as well!

Thank you, Laurye!

Over the years, I’ve been blessed to have experienced all three Dazzle locations, having worked in both the Waterbury and Oxford stores and shopping at all three! I’ve been lucky enough to help in all capacities during the Dazzle Boutique #MagicMondays era; to advertise gowns and boutique items as they came into the shop; to attend events; and so much more!

Not only has Laurye acted as my pageantry fairy godmother, but she has been a dear friend and support system both in my stage life and my everyday. Thank you, Laurye, for everything you’ve done!

You can find my long history with Dazzle Boutique, documented here:

The Dazzle Boutique x We Aim To Slay Archives!

The #DazzleGirls Say Farewell!

Emily Huydic

When I think back to being 16 and walking into Dazzle Boutique for the first time as a prom ambassador, I had no idea how much it would shape me. What started as a job quickly became a place where I learned confidence, independence, and the value of hard work. Over the years, Dazzle wasn’t just where I worked, it’s where I grew into myself. At 23, I can see how every opportunity, every lesson, and every bit of encouragement helped shape me into the woman I am today. Thank you, Laurye, for believing in me and giving me a place to shine.

Cathy & Kylie Watson

Laurye, from Kylie’s very first gown to the last one and everything in between, Dazzle was always the place we could count on. You have made Kylie shine on stage for 10+ years, and we really appreciate you! We will miss you so much! Good luck in your new adventure! Love always, Cathy and your little nugget, Kylie.

The Gallagher Girls

Laurye and Dazzle have been so much more than wardrobe for #TWNE and the Gallagher family. Laurye and I became friends shortly after I moved to Litchfield County. Before Dazzle we would travel to NYC together to shop for wardrobe, and then she opened the shop and we never looked back. There are too many memories to share, but I will say having Laurye dress me is my lucky charm and I will miss having her shop so close by. (photos downloaded to Mac!)