BY KAREN YOUNG
Jill Roberts is located on Ventura Place where the Studio City Farmers Market holds court on Sundays. Photo: Karen Young
When celebrity stylist Allison Rae Marsh called me about the opening of the new Jill Roberts boutique on Ventura Place, I was thrilled for two reasons— one, that a unique, established independent, clothing store was coming to the 818, and two, I was happy to hear that Allison (whose personal style always makes me marvel) was going to be the in-store stylist and available for house calls as well.
I first took note of Jill Roberts in the mid 90s when she opened her first store on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica. Her boutique stood out because the styles are so colorful and relaxed, yet still quite chic with soft, feminine and cozy fabrics. It’s that same lifestyle quality that comes to mind when you think about living life in the Hamptons, Cape Cod, Malibu—or any other easy living destination.
Beachy, cool and colorful. Photo: Karen Young
Jill Roberts expanded to Beverly Hills in 1998, and then Manhattan Beach followed just late last year. The Studio City store is located just a jump off the beaten path on Ventura Place (home of the Studio City Farmers Market)—which lends itself to the feel of shopping in your best girlfriend’s closet (only a little bigger, of course!).
The boutique’s trek to the 818 is kismet since Roberts and her husband/business partner, Mark Freeman, are both San Fernando Valley natives.
“When my husband came home to tell me that we were opening a store in the old neighborhood it took me a few minutes for it to register. He grew up in Studio City and he and I know the neighborhood like the back of our hands,” explained Roberts. “I love the quaint, charming walking streets and Ventura Place is exactly the perfect spot for my expansion. It is just far enough off of the main boulevard and it allows for a great stroll.”
Whimsical, chic and comfortable. Photo: Karen Young
The clothes are arranged by color as well as by pieces that can be worn as an outfit. There’s an eclectic mix of styles for most any body type—dresses, skirts, hoodies, shorts and whimsical tees. There are also shoes, candles and beach bags, as well as a good selection of handcrafted jewelry, accessories, and even some Cosabella undergarments. The store also carries Mark Freeman’s own line, Left Coast Luxury— colorful board shorts for men (but women can wear them as well!).
Designers include Seaton (Roberts’ own brand that she describes as “luxurious beachy wear”), which can also be found in major department stores and upscale contemporary shops nationwide. Her signature is a sea horse which frolics alongside such designs as stars and stripes, as well as fun, positive statements on tees. Look for other well-known designers, such as Alexander Wang, J Brand, Clu, Shine, Theory, Brochu Walker and Mother Jeans (an amazing slim jean fit). Shoe brands include Kork-Ease and Repetto.
Shoes, such as these Repetto flats (in multiple colors), as well as Kork-Ease, are a staple. Photo: Karen Young
“I consider myself a bit of a local in Studio City and am so excited to bring my brand to the community,” said Roberts. “Over the years my friends have always asked if I would open a store in the Valley and I was in no rush to expand during a very challenging economy! The right location and opportunity came up and I just couldn’t resist.”
Jill Roberts is located at 12053 Ventura Place Studio City, 818.821.3413. In-store personal stylist service and house call styling services.
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10 a.m.-6p.m., Sun: 8:30 a.m.- 2p.m.
Other locations: 363 N Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 920 N Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, and 415 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA.
Karen Young is the Founder/Editor of My Daily Find. Email: karen@mydailyfind.com
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