For the smallest state, Little Rhody punches well about its weight when it comes to style. With a serendipitous mix of in-state degree programs ranging from fashion merchandising to apparel design, coupled with lingering resources and mill spaces from our manufacturing heyday, one doesn’t need to look far to find a designer with a studio/showroom tucked along a waterway. Adding to this climate are the state’s numerous main streets which derive their charms from the highly curated boutiques hanging their shingles on historic buildings. To get a sense of what makers are making and sellers are selling, we queried founders, designers, buyers, and owners around the state. Along with reporting on what’s trending, discover brands you may not have known existed – outfitting fashionistas everywhere – right here in Rhode Island.
Don Fox was on a path to work at the CIA or NSA, “but I ended up a fashion designer,” he says with a chuckle. “Life will take you down paths you least expect.” As an early cashmere apprentice in Woonsocket, Fox immersed himself in every aspect of the business, learning about fiber dying characteristics and touring the spinning and weaving mills of the USA, Europe, Japan, and Korea. Today, Alashan is known for its extensive color palette of pure cashmere and other natural blends, carried at boutiques and furnishing rooms at places like the Ocean House in Watch Hill. “Our customers say that we own the rainbow!” says Fox.
WHAT’S HOT: “A combination of gray and neutrals/tan shades, and blues, continues to do well for us.”
WHAT’S AHEAD: “For fall 2025, we are obsessed with the jam and jelly colors, as well as rich and earthy chocolate colors.” Alashan Cashmere, Mapleville
Simple shapes, elegant vibrant hues, and a single round brass piece to close are among the signature elements that make Lindy McDonough’s soft leather bags instantly recognizable. McDonough studied Industrial Design at RISD, followed by a post-grad job in NYC retail, but it was shadowing a master craftsman in a Connecticut leather factory that cemented her career path. “I’ve been designing and pattern making and building bags ever since.”
WHAT’S HOT: “Butter and chocolate, and not just because those are two of the most delicious foods. Soft yellow and deep brown is absolutely having a moment – we ran an edition in our deep Chaga brown for the holidays and it sold out instantly.”
FAVE LOOK: “One of my favorite combinations to wear this season has been my Cordera navy track pants with a classic red stripe paired with a KasMaria dark vintage floral patterned corduroy jacket.” Lindquist Object, Rumford
Lilith Guerrera had been creating jewelry for years, but it was while vacationing in Spain that pendants caught her eye. “One piece really inspired me and got me thinking about how special it would be to wear a pendant with true meaning. As an experienced entrepreneur, I tapped into my creative side and began designing my own jewelry. That’s how LOLA, Love one, love all, was born.” Founded in 2015, Guerrera’s line is offered in more than 250 retail stores nationwide, with two brick-and-mortars, one right in Newport.
WHAT’S HOT: “We saw a lot of blue at NY Now (wholesale trade event) this year, and recently came out with a new blue that’s been extremely popular for spring/summer.”
FAVE LOOK: “We love when people get messy and layer up all different textures, colors, and sizes. It’s a lot of fun and there are no rules.” The Love Shack by LOLA, Newport
Providence born-and-raised Toyin Omisore founded ROAM LOUD in 2020 and has been busy ever since. “I’m building an activewear brand rooted in representation and movement, and I also work as a digital content strategist, so storytelling, aesthetics, and intention are always top of mind for me,” says the Wanderer-in-Chief. Her premium brand of activewear and athleisure apparel is available in an appealing palette and received national attention when her Yanta bra and legging set was selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2023.
WHAT’S HOT: “Lighter shades of green and ivory are beautiful and perfect for spring.”
FAVE LOOK: “I absolutely love how women have moved into a combination of loose and form-fitting clothing. Seeing heels, loose jeans, a fitted shirt, and a blazer feels like we are leaning into styles and looks that we love, look good in, and feel comfortable in.” Roam Loud, Providence
“A little sunshine for your closet” is the M.O. for this clothing brand made from hand-printed colorful Balinese batik. Westerly’s Justin Goff was living in Bali, surfing and making clothing for himself and his friends, when he met Tika, and the rest is “wear happy” history. The couple’s light-filled seasonal flagship in Watch Hill is the place to view their entire line. “We want people to put down their phones and live life, not just ‘like’ it on Instagram,” says Justin.
WHAT’S HOT: “We have some beautiful greens worked into this summer’s line that we love. We have always loved our cottons. They wash well, are great to wear, and last long. Nothing beats the natural weave!”
FAVE LOOK: “A Three Islands batik shirt with old khaki shorts or a dress with an old pair of flip-flops says ‘let’s have a fun summer day.’” Three Islands, Watch Hill
Every pair of Tigris Handmade shoes is made one at a time, by hand, using traditional Turkish techniques. “As an artist, I view each pair of shoes as a canvas where ancestral knowledge meets contemporary design,” says founder Selahattin Şep, who describes fashion as a form of storytelling. “I love that it can hold memory, place, identity, and it’s a living thread between generations.” Inside their showroom, find an assortment of colors, styles, and sizes.
WHAT’S HOT: “Earthy reds and terracotta tones are having a big moment. They feel grounded, warm, and bold all at once – like something ancient but totally fresh at the same time.”
FAVE LOOK: “I love a relaxed linen suit paired with handmade leather shoes. It’s effortless but still put-together. There’s something so timeless about it.” Tigris Handmade, Bristol
Christine Francis loves the history behind fashion, especially the elements that have affected trends over time, from scarcity of materials to youth culture. Since opening her first space in the Arcade Providence in 2013, followed by a move to Tiverton, and then to Warren, Francis’ eye for everything from cowboy boots to costume jewelry has made her shop the go-to for those seeking unique pieces made to last.
WHAT’S HOT: “Chunky 1970s and 1980s gold necklaces are very in. Makers like Napier, Monet, and Trifari (the latter two made in RI) created high-quality plated pieces that look as good today as they did 40-50 years ago.”
FAVE LOOK: “Victorian and Edwardian authentic and revival styles are very popular again. Even Victorian revival items popular in both the 1940s and 1970s are having a resurgence in today’s market with their intricate engravings and classic styles.” Carmen & Ginger Vintage Goods, Warren
In March of 2023, stylist Liz Atkins brought full-service women’s clothing boutique Coco Goose to Wayland Square. “I was born loving fashion so it was a natural progression,” she says of opening the store. “I adore my customers, they are the best part of the job. Life can be heavy, but fashion doesn’t have to be.” Shoppers can expect to find premium denim, cashmere, and more from over 300 brands and labels.
WHAT’S HOT: “It’s fun to see the butter yellow right now, and the beautiful strong greens from Ulla Johnson. Navy and white are always fantastic in spring and summer.”
FAVE LOOK: “A modern blazer or tailored vest, a fun pair of barrel-leg pants, and a maxi, boho dress styled with Frye Campus boots. Belts are back, too, and I’m loving the resurgence of the scarf. So many options there.” Coco Goose, Providence
“Based on my experience and research, I think people are starting to shop smarter, meaning buying more essential pieces rather than trends. People are also starting to pay attention to what the clothes are made of,” says Relentless Boutique LLC owner Sara-Nicole Dattoli. That means natural fibers like 100 percent linen and cotton. Her Main Street shop, which just celebrated its fourth year in business, is ready to outfit women from head to toe in styles that are comfy, pretty, and classic.
WHAT’S HOT: “Butter yellow – it just screams spring. It looks good on everyone, and it’s a very happy color. Also, gingham – its timeless charm makes it a favored choice for those seeking classic patterns with a modern twist.”
FAVE LOOK: “I love a light-wash straight leg with a pair of loafers and a cardigan. It looks so chic.” Relentless Boutique, LLC, East Greenwich
Stacey Downing and Lisa Hurd were working together in a high-end Newport store when they decided to open a shop that caters to the “everyday woman.” The duo’s shared goal is to make a woman look and feel her best in an environment that is friendly and relaxing. A combo of their first names, Stalise carries everything from jeans and T’s to special occasion dresses. “Looking your best gives you a confidence boost that can motivate you in every aspect of life,” says Downing.
WHAT’S HOT: “The color of the moment is mocha mousse; it’s an easy color to wear and pairs nicely with all neutrals in your closet. Also, wider pants and jeans, classic structured dresses, and feminine lacey tops.”
FAVE LOOK: “Dresses! So easy and multifunctional.” Stalise, Portsmouth
While raising their kids, friends Candace Brown and Lauren Wells were trying to figure out their next career steps. They wanted to work for themselves, and were both armed with past retail experience in buying, management, and merchandising. “We came up with a business plan for a boutique that was different from what South County had to offer,” says Brown. “We truly believe that fashion and shopping is a form of therapy.” Today the pair own and operate Therapy Boutique at two coastal locations.
WHAT’S HOT: “Yellows, pinks, and soft pastels look beautiful with earthy tones like mocha. All shades of blue are always popular in Southern Rhode Island. Our advice is if you like a trending color but it doesn’t suit you, add it to your wardrobe as an accessory.”
FAVE LOOK: “Day dresses that, with a switch of shoes and accessories, become a going-out look.” Therapy Boutique, Wakefield & Wickford
Tara Barkovitz started embroidering sweatshirts as a creative outlet and selling them online. When a retail space in downtown Westerly became available, the former art teacher and stay-at-home mom took a chance and opened Wildflower Kids. It wasn’t long before her store outgrew the space and moved to a larger one across the street. “Children’s fashion is really such a fun and joyful industry. There’s nothing better than a smiling kid coming out of the fitting room feeling good or the joy that oozes out of a first-time mom or grandma shopping for a new baby!” says Barkovitz.
WHAT’S HOT: “Pastels for babies, muted brights for girls, and bright T’s in candy colors for boys.”
FAVE LOOK: “Gone are the days of stiff fabrics and fitted outfits. Kids want to be comfortable, and fabrics like muslin, cotton, and bamboo are all the rage!” Wildflower Kids, Westerly
Growing up, Anna Maria Lenihan spent a lot of time at Woodmansee’s, a gift shop and boutique established in 1904, owned by her mom and grandmother. All the while the wheels were turning in Lehinan’s mind to open her own shop. Enter woodees, a charming addition to Westerly since 2012, with clothing and accessories for men and women. Breezy dresses, seashell earrings, hats, and even outerwear are all available.
WHAT’S HOT: “Pink, and everything very girlie, feminine, and sweet. Florals, boho prints, and linens for spring and summer, plus lots of nautical/fisherman vibe stuff, and red!”
FAVE LOOK: “I will always love a good pair of fitted jeans with a simple but elevated basic top. Bonus if you add a jacket. It just works, always, no matter your mood.” woodees a boutique, Westerly
21 cool colors and goods to add to your summer wardrobe:
• Belts
• Boho looks
• Butter yellow
• Chokers
• Craftsmanship
• Contrasting colors
• Gold
• In-store shopping
• Kicks in candy-colors
• Lace
• Mocha mousse
• Natural fibers
• Nautical
• Navy
• Nostalgic prints
• Scarves
• Seashell jewelry
• Sheer fabrics
• Stacked bracelets
• Vintage florals
• White
When asked, “who gets to name the colors in your line?” Don Fox, owner of Alashan Cashmere explains, “our design team presents them to me, but I get final say,” adding that he knows from institutional knowledge what resonates with customers. Here are some favorite names from the designer/makers featured in this article.
Alashan CASHMERE:
Artichoke, Fruit Punch,
Mineral, Windswept
Lindquist Object:
Carrot, Kelp, Otter, Persimmon
Roam Loud:
Cocao, Dark Roast, Green-ish, Plum
Three Islands:
Dawn Hours, Golden Hour, Orange Pagoda, Rum Jungle Pink
Tigris Handmade:
Bougainvillea, Damascus Camel, Dandelion, Euphrates Blue
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