ROBIN RICHMAN

Robin studied textile design at the School of the Art Institute. She started a wholesale hand-knit sweater business that she maintained for 18 years. To showcase her sweaters, Robin opened her store in December 11 years ago, but by April she realized sweaters were not appropriate for the upcoming summer. Already familiar with European markets from her antique business, Robin began carrying collections from friends she made along the way such Marc Le Bihan and the girls from Antipast. Robin fosters long term relationships with designers that are in the realm of her aesthetic. Robin’s buying style is very focused, sticking to her interests rather than following trend. When she sees something she loves, Robin is quite decisive about picking it up. The store has gone through many transformations and Robin continues to find her voice through a mixture of objects and fashion with a focus still on textiles.


THE STORE

Located in the north end of Bucktown, Robin Richman pioneered what has become a community of specialty boutiques. Instead of a sign, her eponymous store is identified by a striking metal, wire ball sculpture by Lucy Slivinski. Remodeled three years ago, Robin found the perfect partner in Julie Flohr an architect, customer and now friend. Julie was chosen after she purchased the most avant-garde piece in the store, a Gary Graham coat. The result is a minimal space with French antique fixtures and collectable accents such as metal skirt forms, Lucite shelves, and knitted metal curtains. The boutique is an experience that goes beyond shopping with its gallery quality displays of clothing, accessories and objects of art. The juxtaposition of these items creates a unique setting unlike any store in Chicago.

ted studios logo