Robin Barrett Wilson, CEO/Founder of robin b. is a fashion industry veteran and a glass-ceiling-smasher from day one. Prior to founding robin b., she worked for and with some of the most prominent names in the fashion industry (Victoria’s Secret, Tory Burch, Chico’s Brands, J. Crew – just to name a few). Robin started in store operations and progressed to buyer before switching to the other side, selling apparel for vendors. At the beginning of the tech craze, she went behind the scenes, consulting with retail companies on e-Commerce, Omni-channel and Supply Chain.
Robin was living her dream life with her beloved, successful husband…until he was diagnosed with cancer, and passed away within the year. Her entire world was shaken to its core. She left her marital home in North Carolina, moved back to her home state of Rhode Island and decided to pursue her dream, her passion, and start robin b. “After losing my husband to cancer, I found myself starting over: new job, new apartment, new town… but I just didn’t feel the drive that I once had. I knew I needed to find a passion for something, because living in the past wasn’t going to work. After some reflection, I realized that I had the tools I needed from my background in fashion and tech to follow a life-long dream of opening a boutique,” says Barrett Wilson.
When that decision was made, she had a definite vision in mind! Once your typical executive in the hi-tech space, Robin missed the days of shopping in well curated boutiques. With a demanding job that had her traveling often, she missed that one-to-one customer service she had found in years past. She dreamed of a more personalized, intimate shopping experience in an environment that was inviting and relaxed. She envisioned designs that were unique, not “the same old, same old”. Something that seemed to be missing in today’s version of retail.
It was in 2015 that robin b. first opened in Rhode Island and online. Robin b. is dedicated to helping our customers find the perfect items that fit their unique style. You will find the latest fashions from established and up-and-coming designers, as well as exclusive, made in NYC, designs. Whether shopping in our store or online, we strive to deliver the best personal styling and customer service.
Since the launch and store, robin b. has grown and matured as a brand – transforming into a destination for women to find well-made, luxurious, classic designs that will last season to season. Taking from her background in fashion and retail, coupled with inspiration from classic icons, Robin developed a line of timeless pieces for the modern woman. Knowing exactly what she wanted; classic designs that “do more”, high quality construction and fabrics, and impeccable fit, Robin turned to NYC to have her garments produced. In 2017, after a year of planning, designing, and preparing, the collection launched, starting with just 5 items. The line continues to grow with additional items being added each season.
Always conscience of price, Robin is determined to deliver premium products at an affordable price, so she has taken out the middleman and can sell directly to her fashion-forward fan base. You won’t find robin b. in boutiques or department stores. She says, “I hope you love my designs as much as I do and you find they are your “go-to” item for years to come.”
