By Joy Kraft
The Cincinnati Enquirer

You could say that Carol Cooper knows all the answers about Kenwood Towne Centre. The 72-year-old retiree from U.S. Playing Card Co. mans the information booth full-time as customer service supervisor for shoppers on the prowl for everything from ice cream to eyeglasses.

Carol Cooper's color-shot jacket is from Clothes ERncounters in Fort Wright. Her jewelry is by Brighton. (Joseph Fuqua II photo) | ZOOM |

Her most-frequently-asked question? Where are the restrooms?

Surrounded by hundreds of stores, she's bound to be a top-flight shopper. "I'll be the first to admit I spoil myself a little," she says, "but when you are 72 you should spoil yourself a little, shouldn't you?"

A resident of Blue Ash, she is described as "impeccably dressed and perfectly accessorized, right down to her glasses," and is known around the mall for her colorful jackets and seasonal sweaters.

You can be found shopping at: Parisian, Acorn in Hyde Park, Chico's, Clothes Encounters in Fort Wright.

Describe your style: Flamboyant. I like vivid color, glitzy clothes.

Signature style: I like to change styles. One day I can be more dressed up, the next day tailored. It depends on my mood.

Best bargain: I purchased some Swarovski jewelry at Parisian. Most pieces were about $5 and they were probably originally priced at about $50 to $100.

You can never have enough: Shoes and purses. I am ashamed to tell how many I have.

Earliest fashion memory: As a really young girl I dreamed of becoming a clothes buyer, but never got around to it.

Sentimental clothing: I have a red alligator purse my mom gave me when I was 20, and I still carry it.

Favorite brand: I like Sandy Starkman jackets at the Acorn. They are a very different style and she varies fabrics, colors. I like to team them up with slacks or skirts.

Fashion pet peeve: I wish ladies would think beyond denim for casual wear.

Favorite finishing touch: I always wear jewelry, every day.

Send nominations to Joy Kraft by mail: c/o Cincinnati Enquirer, 312 Elm St., Cincinnati 45202; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: jkraft@enquirer.com. Include their name age, daytime phone and why they should be featured.