It’s the newest edition of Jews of Philly Fashion, introducing you to the Chosen few who dress our city. They might mix wool and linen, but they’ve got some strong opinions on mixing stripes with florals. In this space, we’ll talk to designers, sellers, buyers, influencers, models and more. This week, we spoke to Jennifer Rosen.
“I know lingerie,” Jennifer Rosen said. “I know bras like the back of my hand.”
People certainly seem to agree with Rosen, 35, who began working with bras and lingerie 15 years ago. The Gladwyne native started at Hope Chest in Haverford as a sales associate, and credits her keen eye for customer desire to her experience working in that small boutique.
Rosen opened a Hope Chest location in Philadelphia (a separate entity from the Haverford location, owned by Rosen) in 2012, and spent years learning about the business at her 20th and Chestnut streets location. But in mid-2019, she moved the store to South 19th Street, and this January, she finally gave the new venue what it needed most: a new name. Rosen went with Je Suis Jolie (“I am pretty” in French), and strives to give her customers the feeling that the name promises.
“So many women open up a clothing store because they want to sell their style. But I was really doing it for Philadelphia,” Rosen said.
What is your favorite piece of clothing sold in your store?
My favorite piece is also our bread-and-butter, the Simone Perele T-shirt bra. It’s a French brand, and the soft fabric provides all-day comfort. The fit is so consistent, it makes my job so easy. It’s a no-brainer for any woman.
What clothing trend would you like to see make a comeback?
Corsets and bustiers. They aren’t only meant to be worn underneath your clothes. Many
bustiers are works of art that should be shown off. You can pair with jeans and a blazer for a glamorous night out.
And what trend are you content to leave in the past?
Cargo pants. Enough said.
What’s something you can’t believe you used to wear?
I used to wear a Kate Spade diaper bag as a purse in high school. I used all my babysitting money to buy this trendy bag. But it was a diaper bag, and I didn’t have a baby.
Is there a current fashion trend that you detest?
I don’t understand the overpriced sneakers that come looking worn and marked up.
What’s your go-to quarantine meal, for yourself and your family?
Soups. Lots and lots of soups. Easy to make.
What’s the best thing you’ve watched in quarantine?
“Little Fires Everywhere.” I’m on the last episode, and I’m so upset it’s over. It’s deep and intense and of course stars Reese Witherspoon.
What item of clothing should more people be wearing?
Good bras in the right size that fit well. Too many woman are walking around wearing the wrong size. If they give the better-quality companies a chance, it will be life-changing.
Whose style do you admire?
Gwyneth Paltrow. She dresses with style, but it seems so effortless. As a mom on the go, I try to put together easy outfits that still look as good as Gwyneth.
What talent would you most like to have?
To dance. I’m embarrassed to admit this, but watching TikTok throughout quarantine makes me jealous of the skilled dancers.
What is your most defining characteristic?
I have a big heart and I am very empathetic. Whenever I see someone in need, I want to be the one to help.
jbernstein@jewishexponent.com; 215-832-0740
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