Great Escape: Get Away to Garbolino

One of my friends mentioned that she had just purchased a great pair of jeans at on Ocean View in Montrose. Having heard repeatedly of their interesting clothes and amazing scarves, I decided to have a little "shopping" escape of my own and check it out.

This designer boutique proved comparable to those Westside destinations, with premium denim jeans from designers such as Paige and Joe's, plus clothing from labels such as Ella Moss, Splendid, and Bailey 44. I could not believe that we have these "brand" names here in our area.

Mary Anne Orcutt, owner of Garbolino in Montrose, hand picks unique, contemporary clothes for her boutique. "I am always on the hunt," Orcutt said, "for clothing, jewelry, hats, and scarves that are custom tailed to the atmosphere of our store and our clientele." New arrivals come every week to add to the uniqueness of this store.

Garbolino is launching their new spring and summer lines of clothing, with one of a kind t-shirts, sun dresses, and tanks. I fell in love with a cream colored blouse, imported from Paris, that sported hand-sewn lace around the collar. Almost one whole side of the boutique is centered around "one of a kind" lace shirts and blouses, with lace being so popular this season they have a wide assortment of styles and colors to chose from. Satin bandana blouses with cinch ties on the side, rhinestone embellishments, and lightweight summer vests are just some of the variety of items available.

This boutique prides itself on the personal interest they take in their guests. The "personal shoppers" on staff are able to help you choose out something custom tailed to your body style, image, and personality. In an effort to make sure that an article of clothing is fitting properly, Orcutt and her other employees actually help you in the fitting room and offer alterations as needed to ensure the perfect fit and look.

A new "lower priced" line of clothing is now available with incredible deals at $39, $49, $59, and $69 so that people who may be feeling the effects of the economy can still enjoy incredible fashion at a reasonable price.

"We are designer stylists," said Orcutt, who worked as clothing buyer before opening Garbolino ten years ago. "We are knowledgeable about the trends in the industry. We are not an 'edgy' store but cater to teen through adults who are looking for contemporary fashion."

I found sparkling vintage jewelry from the 1960s displayed at the counter that make the perfect accent to any ensemble. Dazzling rings, bracelets, broaches, earrings are all one of a kind and add a certain "je ne sais quoi" to your outfit. Scarves and a wide variety of hat styles, from plaid Burberry to a more summery hat for the beach, can complete your ensemble.

Garbolino invites you to come and check out their store and add your email to their guestbook. Several times a year they hold private shopping events that are "by invitation only," complete with a preview of the new lines to be launched. These parties include fine wine tasting, imported cheeses and chocolates, and guests are invited to join in the festivities.   

Garbolino is located at 3820 Ocean View Blvd. Call them at 818-248-6004.