Bernard Boutique, a prominent name in premium womenswear, is set to close its doors this week, marking the end of an era for its Esher, Surrey location.
- Renowned for its 40-year presence on Esher High Street, Bernard Boutique will cease trading on 8 June 2024.
- Founded by Helene Rapaport in 1969, the boutique relocated from Cranleigh to Esher in 1972, becoming a beloved local fixture.
- With a robust online presence since 2015, the boutique generated significant sales through its now-defunct website.
- The closure follows personal health priorities of the founders, as shared in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Bernard Boutique, a distinguished name in independent womenswear retail, will close its Esher, Surrey location later this week. After over four decades of operation on Esher High Street, the boutique has confirmed that its final trading day will be Saturday, 8 June 2024.
Founded in 1969 by Helene Rapaport, the store initially operated in Cranleigh before relocating to Esher in 1972. Its longstanding presence on the High Street has made it an integral part of the local retail landscape.
The boutique’s website, which launched in 2015, contributed to half of its annual sales until it became inaccessible this past May. With 60% to 70% of its revenue stemming from womenswear sales, the boutique featured contemporary brands such as Ganni and Isabel Marant. Footwear sales accounted for up to 30% of their business, with notable labels including Veja, Golden Goose, and Axel Arigato.
Helene Rapaport, a notable figure in the fashion industry, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Drapers Independents Awards in 2023. Bernard Boutique has also been accoladed as Designer Store of the Year in 1997 and Top Buyer of the Year in 1998 at the Drapers Awards.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Helene Rapaport expressed a deep affection for the business, saying, “If we could, we would stay in business forever as we have loved every single minute of it, but health now comes first and Barrie [Rapaport, Bernard Boutique co-founder] and I look forward to some relaxing holidays and family time.”
The closure of Bernard Boutique marks the end of a notable chapter in Esher’s retail history, driven by personal health considerations of its founders.
