The iconic Bernard Boutique is closing its Esher, Surrey location this week, marking the end of an era for the independent womenswear retailer.
- Established by Helene Rapaport in 1969, Bernard Boutique has been a fixture on Esher’s High Street for more than four decades.
- The final day of trading for the store, measuring 2,500 sq ft, will be this Saturday, 8 June.
- Bernard Boutique expanded its reach online in 2015, with half of its annual sales derived from its website.
- Co-founder Helene Rapaport cited health reasons for the closure and looks forward to family time after closing.
The renowned Bernard Boutique, a staple of Esher’s High Street, is set to close its doors for the last time this week, ending a remarkable chapter in the retail story of this Surrey town. Founded in 1969 by Helene Rapaport, the boutique has served the community and fashion enthusiasts alike since it relocated from Cranleigh in 1972.
Helene Rapaport, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Drapers Independents Awards in 2023, built Bernard Boutique into a beloved destination for high-end fashion. The store’s closure this Saturday, 8 June, will mark the end of its tangible presence, though its legacy in the retail world remains strong.
In 2015, Bernard Boutique expanded its operations to include an online store, which rapidly grew to account for 50% of its annual sales. This digital leap allowed the boutique to reach a broader audience, although the website has been inaccessible since late May. Despite this, the boutique maintained a robust revenue stream, with 60% to 70% of its sales coming from contemporary womenswear brands such as Ganni and Isabel Marant.
Bernard Boutique also excelled in footwear sales, featuring renowned brands like Veja, Golden Goose, and Axel Arigato, which collectively contributed up to 30% of its sales. The remaining sales were from lifestyle products, reflecting its diverse product range and appeal to various consumer tastes.
Helene Rapaport announced the closure on Instagram, attributing the decision to health concerns and expressing a heartfelt farewell to the business she cherished. “If we could, we would stay in business forever as we have loved every single minute of it,” she stated, highlighting the personal and emotional investment in Bernard Boutique.
The closure of Bernard Boutique signifies the end of a significant chapter in Esher’s retail landscape, with its legacy enduring through fond memories and industry respect.
