La-Di-Da is here for the LGBTQ+ community
After years of designing events for some of Hollywood’s top names, Ken Sharples brought his business expertise to his latest venture: the clothing industry. Now, accompanying the new colorful sidewalks in Rehoboth Beach is LGBTQ+ boutique La-Di-Da.
Sharples opened La-Di-Da over Memorial Day weekend on S. First Street. The one-man show mainly offers gay men’s clothing, along with gifts, accessories and women’s apparel. Sharples aims to provide all ages with affordable clothes to ensure every visitor to Rehoboth Beach enjoys their vacation.
“The community needs a store that caters to everyone at a fair price,” Sharples said.
La-Di-Da features brands such as Cocksox, Jack Adams and BIKE Athletic that design fashionable underwear, swimwear, activewear, shorts and tank tops. The store also sells games, locally made jewelry and hats, mugs and shirts with funny sayings. Sharples rotates the inventory frequently based on the latest trends and will order items specifically based on his conversations with customers.
“If I don’t have it, I’ll get it for you,” Sharples said.
Sharples worked for a different boutique last year, but said he wanted to fill the need for inexpensive clothing locally. At La-Di-Da, all items range in price from $9 to $135, according to Sharples. He’ll tell someone when they look good in clothes, and he’ll grab another outfit when he thinks they don’t. As long as people are laughing when they walk out of the store, Sharples said he’s done his job.
“I feel like I’m doing something here in the community,” Sharples said. “That’s the important thing. It’s not just a store; it’s more than that. I make you feel good. [When] you walk out of here, you got a great deal and I made you look good.”
Sharples is originally from Manhattan. He studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. He worked as a food and beverage director in multiple hotels, resorts and clubs, including the Barclay Hotel and Union League of Philadelphia.
Sharples later launched Creations Productions in West Palm Beach, which became the largest production company in Florida. After 17 years designing events for the likes of Madonna, Elton John and Brooke Shields, he sold Creations and invested in other companies. Sharples now spends most of his time with his husband in Rehoboth Beach, returning to the place he vacationed since the 1980s.
Once the summer season is over, La-Di-Da will gradually open fewer days a week until closing January through March. During this time, Sharples plans to pick out patterns and design his own clothes. He also will attend trade shows across the country to stock up and remain updated on what’s in style.
Sharples said La-Di-Da is a project that’s all about helping people look good and supporting the gay community.
“The best part is when I’m sitting on the beach and I see something I sold somebody,” Sharples said.
La-Di-Da is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and until 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday. For more information, go to www.la-di-da-trendz.com.
