By Sofjola Bego,
Co-Fashion Editor–
Media Credit: Kristina Richard’s Studio Facebook Page
When one opens the door to Kristina Richards Studio, the heavy silver wind chimes jingle like a spring afternoon in the countryside. This is not your typical old fashioned, small-town boutique, though.
Located on one of Newport’s most busy pathways at 17 Touro St., Kristina Richards, as it is known by locals, is nuzzled in between Karma Boutique and the Jane Pickens Theatre.
As soon as one walks in, the polished hardwood floor is sleek, next to white, modern tables and closet stands, embellished with elegant, crisp white and rosy pink orchids. A creme sofa, conveniently set in the middle for customers to relax or try shoes on, is equipped with fashion magazines from Vogue to W to Elle.
This clean, classic design adds an airy atmosphere to this otherwise, small space. Adorning the walls are hangers filled with the latest trendy styles, from Alice & Olivia tanks, to Dolce Vita wedges and J brand denim.
Serving a female clientele only, Kristina Richards has been in business now since 2001. According to the store’s website, a new development in the business as of July 2011, the boutique prides itself on giving customers a selection of “up-and-coming designers,” such as T-bags, to “main-stream labels,” like 7 For All Mankind. Every piece is chosen deliberately to suit a “sophisticated, beach-chic vibe.” The success of the Newport store brought a second opening with a “sister” store for the business at 1000 Chapel View Blvd in Cranston, Rhode Island in 2007.
As the website informs, Kristina Richards remains as a trendy boutique because both stores offer shoppers different pieces while keeping that sense of fresh, coastal-style fashion.
Those who know clothes and accessories know that labels such as the impeccable, 100% cotton tops from Joie and smooth, leather detailing of Sam Edelman boots do not come cheap. Fortunately for Kristina Richards’ fans, the store’s timely blow-out sales, boasting prices up to 75% off their merchandise, are perfect for those keeping their wallets close to them these fall and winter seasons. Sales usually occur seasonally and during holidays. The Labor Day weekend sale this year was fantastic with its additional 15% off already-reduced items.
Since Newport residents do not have the benefits of a Lord & Taylor or a Macy’s department store nearby, Kristina Richards is one of the only ways to get your hands on a marked down dress by Free People or Sam Edelman sandals without having to pay for shipping and handling. It is also difficult to find a boutique in Newport that caters to the styles of college students with the prices of a department store, which is why Kristina Richards Studio, during its special blowout sales, is a hidden gem amongst luxury.
Make sure to follow Kristina Richards Studio on Facebook for all the special sales and promotions! Happy shopping!
