Sarah Walor photo
After 10 years of living in Central Virginia, Lynne Butz was convinced that Richmond needed another "fun, friendly, girly boutique."
She opened Monkee's of Richmond in March, choosing a location in the Shoppes at Westgate, across from Short Pump Town Center. "I fell in love with the store as a shopper," says Butz, who first encountered the chain in Wilmington, N.C.
The store pops with color, including crisp, white furniture against soft, yellow walls hung with stylish dresses and versatile tops. "Color is a huge thing," she says.
Butz does all of the buying for Monkee's — a reprise of her former career as a corporate buyer for The Limited and Hecht's. Her return to the fashion industry after raising a family fulfills a longtime dream of owning a boutique.
Monkee's exclusively sells the Kate Spade clothing line in the Richmond area and also carries the Tibi and Trina Turk labels. Offerings range from a colorful Tibi silk strapless dress ($345) to a subtle black frock by Max and Cleo ($148), reflecting the spring trend of ruffles.
The shop is also known for its jewelry, Butz says. Offerings include a range of styles — for instance, a leather and gold-beaded wrap bracelet ($25), a gold peace-sign necklace ($20) and a similarly priced costume necklace. Earrings start at $20. "Everyone can leave Monkee's with jewelry," she says.
For more information, call 360-4660 or visit monkeesofrichmond.com .
