Love Notes From Our Retailers Featuring: robin b. clothier

Essentials for the Everyday Traveler. Ethically made in Canada with sustainable and eco friendly materials.

This week I had the opportunity to interview Robin from one of our new retailers, robin b. clothier in East Greenwich, Rhode Island where she works at promoting sustainable and mindful fashion through her own boutique.

The boutique opened in November 2015 offers women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and home décor & gifts which can be purchase in-store and online.

About Robin

With over 20 years of experience in the fashion and retail industry, Robin began her career working for large retail brands, working her way up from store operations to buying, and later transitioning to technology. She holds an Associate Degree in Fashion Merchandising and a Bachelor Degree in Business Management.

The Interview

Why did you start Robin B. Clothier?

Robin: Nowadays, it’s too easy to find “fast fashion” – the cheap clothing that’s one aisle over from the kitchen supplies at Target, that lasts for one season before you drop it in the trash. It’s bad for the planet, and it’s bad for your budget. How do you maintain a closet full of great wardrobe staples if the fashion you purchase doesn’t last season to season, year to year?

I kept wondering, where do people shop, locally, to get great fashion that is high quality, represents the modern woman, and has a meaning or a purpose?

That’s exactly what I had in mind when I opened my boutique, robin b. clothier, last year. I had always been taught the importance of quality when it came to spending money on my wardrobe. Having quality doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the latest trends.

What makes your shop unique?

Robin: Our tagline is Fashions Mindfully Designed.

I knew I wanted to curate brands, designs and items that are unique, fashionable, and authentic. I wanted designs that have a story, whether they are Fair Trade, organic cotton, made in the USA, handcrafted or hand sewn, designed by women for women or philanthropically focused, the designs had to also make a difference. Along with this comes great quality.

This is why Encircled fits so well within the store. My customers love the Evolve Top and Dressy Sweatpants. The quality of the item is top of mind for my customers and knowing how it was made is super important. It is so great to see customers return and add the newest colours of the Evolve Top to their wardrobe. I can't wait to introduce other designs to them in the future.

What’s the best part of running your business?

Robin: Watching my vision come true.

Opening a boutique is a dream come true for me. As a young girl in art club, our teacher took the group on a field trip to the Garment District in New York City. We visited the office of a highly regarded designer and from that moment on I knew I wanted to be in the fashion industry.

What’s the most challenging part of running your business?

Robin: Remembering to stay focused on your vision. There are a lot of designers out there and they have really amazing designs. Staying true to my mission and not compromising is a challenge at times. But in the end, my customers appreciate that I “stick to my guns” and deliver designs they are proud to purchase and wear.

Describe your dream vacation.

Robin: I have traveled to many places – Italy, Greece, Thailand, Bali, Singapore, France, All of the Caribbean. Number 1 on my list is the Galapagos Islands. I can’t wait to take one of those amazing sailing trips that include visiting the island.