Mindful Shopping at robin b.

At robin b. clothier, a new boutique in East Greenwich, Robin Barrett Wilson carefully selects each item – not just for its aesthetic appeal, but for its story. We sat down with her to talk spring trends and shopping with heart.

Tell us about the style of robin b. What’s the fashion vibe like?
I love looking at all the different styles that the press focuses on: street style, boho-chic, LA vs NYC, etc. The truth is, we have a bit of each of these style vibes in our store. It just depends on what accessory you pair with an item and you can quickly change your office attire to boho-chic.

The women I meet are looking for items they can wear for various occasions. Items that have versatility and “do more” but are unique. To cater to that woman, we have curated designs that possess a modern twist. You will find key pieces and interchangeable items that are truly versatile.  Fashion that goes from day to evening, weekday to weekend, season to season.

Does your closet look just like your store?
My style blends classic with fashion forward. I like to pair classic items with the silhouette and/or color of the season. I often find myself pairing a classic black turtleneck with pants or a skirt that represents the trend of the season. I also love jeans, which are a staple in my closet. I have so many pairs and I wear them all. Skinny ankle length jeans are on trend now, but we are seeing flares coming back for spring and very strong for fall of 2016. It is so easy to dress up a pair of jeans with heels, a great top and jewelry and I am ready for anything.

I love that your clothing is “mindfully made.” Everything has a good story.
My favorite story is from Indigenous Clothing. Not only are these designs ethically made, they are on-trend! The line includes the silhouettes we are all looking for, like ponchos, ombre maxi dresses and wrap dresses. The founders have helped form a scalable artisan network that reflects a commitment to sustainability, social entrepreneurship and responsible actions by consumers and businesses alike.

What items are you currently coveting?
This time of year, I want to ditch my sweaters and turtlenecks and start wearing lighter fabrics and colors. We have added two designers to the store this spring, Mickey & Jenny and Lola & Sophie. Both design and produce their products in the US, one in LA and the other in NYC. I am loving the flowy tops from Lola & Sophie, and the soft Earth Tones of Mickey & Jenny. The shapes are modern and unique and take influence from their regions.

In April, we can finally break out of the heavy fabrics we’ve been wearing all winter. How do you like to freshen up your wardrobe in the spring without buying everything new?
Accessories are a great way to brighten any wardrobe. Change your handbag from black to the color of the season – this spring is rose and ice blue. Adding a new shape to your wardrobe like wide leg black pants or flare jeans immediately freshens any look. I also start to think about what shoes I can wear. I love my riding boots, but as spring arrives I start to introduce lighter colored booties and open toed pumps. Add a trench coat in the latest spring color and you are ready for the start of the season.

Every month, robin b. hosts a trunk show from one of their designers. Check their website for information on their April event.

robin b. clothier
175 Main Street, East Greenwich
398-1199