ESCONDIDO -- Lauren Tammariello is the kind of young woman who carries extra shoes in her car at all times -- and thinks most other women do, too.

"To ditch the workday look for an evening feel, just add sparkle," Tammariello said, during an accessorizing workshop at Bacio Boutique on Saturday. "And throw on the highest pair of heels from your car trunk you feel comfortable in."

The workshop was a first for Tammariello, but not for other Escondido businesses. Since May, the city's Downtown Business Association has been combining special workshops with the monthly Second Saturday Artwalk it sponsors. The goal, according to the association's Web site, is to allow local businesses to connect with customers by offering workshops in their area of expertise. For Tammariello, it's all about "The Art of Accessorizing."

"The more bracelets stacked on the arm, the better," Tammariello explained to about 15 women packed into the small boutique with hardwood floors and jeweled chandeliers holding red tapered candles.

"Also," she continued, "masculine-inspired aviator shades are very hot this season."

During the 30-minute workshop, Tammariello, with the help of four live models, displayed the latest trends, explained the "do's and don'ts" of fashion and fielded audience questions.

Born and raised in Escondido, 22-year-old Tammariello graduated from the San Diego Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in 2005 and began selling clothes and accessories on eBay. Eventually, she was able to start her own Web site and began setting up shop at street fairs.

Tammariello said she was "pretty satisfied" with her business at that time, but her customers wanted more.

"Everyone kept asking me when I was going to open a store," Tammariello said. "So here it is."

Bacio Boutique, named after the Italian word for "kiss" in honor of Tammariello's heritage, opened on 121 E. Grand Avenue on May 18. Tammariello said she personally selects all of her boutique's merchandise -- mostly trendy juniors' clothing, tote bags, sunglasses, jewelry and hair accessories that cost less than $20.

"I think it was just what Grand Avenue was missing," Tammariello said.

Other workshops of the day included lessons in makeup, photography, decorating and dance.