Full Breakdown
Saks Fifth Avenue Stylist Accused of Exploiting Dementia-Stricken Client
12/26/2025, 11:36:57 AM
Allegations Against Suhail Kwatra
Suhail Kwatra, a former stylist at Saks Fifth Avenue, faces serious allegations of exploiting Wendy Appel, a client diagnosed with dementia, by charging her credit card for luxury goods she reportedly never received. The accusations, detailed in a Wall Street Journal investigation, claim that Kwatra charged millions for items such as Chanel suits and a $65,000 Louis Vuitton handbag, which Appel never collected. The situation escalated after Appel's son, Michael Appel, raised concerns about Kwatra's conduct, asserting that his mother was not of sound mind and accusing Kwatra of abusing his position as her personal shopper.
Background of the Case
Michael Appel sent a cease-and-desist letter to Saks management in 2016, warning that his mother was vulnerable due to her cognitive decline. Following this, he obtained a conservatorship over her estate, which was later dissolved. Despite these concerns, Kwatra continued to operate at Saks, where he had built a reputation as the "Fashion Whisperer of Boston." Reports indicate that multiple clients had flagged questionable charges tied to Kwatra as early as 2013, yet Saks management did not take significant action until a tip in September 2025 prompted a formal investigation.
Criminal Charges and Company Response
In December 2025, Boston police filed a criminal complaint against Kwatra, accusing him of fraud and larceny, alleging he processed fake returns and converted refunds into gift cards for personal use. The total losses to Saks are reported to be approximately $429,400. Kwatra's attorney, Jennifer Furey, claims that the apology letter he provided to Saks was signed under duress and that the stylist's actions were condoned by his supervisors.
Saks Fifth Avenue stated that they had investigated the Appel matter previously and found no wrongdoing, agreeing to accept some returns out of courtesy. The retailer has faced scrutiny regarding how a top stylist could operate amid unresolved complaints, particularly as it grapples with financial difficulties.
Defense and Client Perspectives
Kwatra's spokesman, Joe Baerlein, has labeled the allegations as "unsubstantiated and false," citing communications from Wendy Appel that suggest she was aware of her transactions. Baerlein contends that the claims from Michael Appel and other clients are motivated by personal agendas. Some clients have come to Kwatra's defense, asserting that he was always transparent about costs and provided excellent service.
Criticism and Ongoing Investigations
Despite the support from some clients, the volume and nature of the complaints against Kwatra have raised significant concerns about Saks Fifth Avenue's oversight. Former clients, including Zach Haroutunian and Amber D’Amelio, reported ongoing issues with unauthorized charges, which they claim were inadequately addressed by store management.
Kwatra is scheduled for arraignment later this month, as the investigation into his conduct continues. The case highlights the complexities of client-stylist relationships and the responsibilities of luxury retailers in safeguarding vulnerable customers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Any allegations from a select few of Mr. Kwatra’s several hundred clients are without merit and not accurate,” — Joe Baerlein, Spokesman for Suhail Kwatra
- “I raised very clear red flags, and they did nothing,” — Zach Haroutunian, Former Client
- “I don’t know if I was truly made whole,” — Amber D’Amelio, Former Client
- “Mr. Kwatra looks forward to clearing his good name and reputation.” — Joe Baerlein, Spokesman for Suhail Kwatra
