Vintage fashion and new basics you need at B. Johnstone

SHARON  — B. Johnstone & Co. has left its intimate boutique in Kent for a new location in Sharon, which opened on Friday, May 18. 

The store had become a shopping destination in Kent, counting actress Katie Holmes and “Sex and the City” author Candace Bushnell among its customers.

Stylist and designer Bartley Johnstone’s shop at the Sharon shopping plaza has everything the Litchfield County shopper could want. Walk in wearing   Hunter boots and jeans — and try on a Lanvin dress, a ruffled Marni parka. 

It’s this playful mix of high and low, unexpected sartorial sophistication and utilitarian get-about-your-day wear that has become Johnstone’s calling card. 

Look down and you’ll find all the vintage Manolo Blahnik shoes. Look up and there’s the perfect, light-weight sleeveless top. 

The new space — open, airy, and flooded with bright natural light —has two spacious dressing rooms and an upstairs office where Johnstone takes meetings for private styling consultations. 

Of course, she can also style on the fly. 

“I have weekenders who will come to me on Sunday and say, ‘If you can find me an outfit to wear to the office on Monday, that means I can stay in Connecticut an extra night. 

“People know me for mixing something really luxury with something more California T-shirt-y,” Johnstone added.

On a recent day she was wearing a black pull-up pant that has become a best-seller. 

“I always have fashion basics, and things that help you get dressed for everyday. I want to keep it accessible for people who live here.” 

Of her decision to move north from Kent, she said, “It’s my 21st year in business, I’m turning 50, I needed something to keep it fresh for me. We needed a bigger space, I needed an office, and I feel like there’s a lot going on in Sharon, Lakeville and Salisbury. There’s a lot of growth potential. It’s a way for me for the grow my market and reach a bigger audience. 

“We’ve already had a much higher volume of customers here.” 

The store, like Johnstone, is a combination of the fashion savvy she honed at Parsons School of Design and the anything-goes freedom that comes with country living. On a rainy late May weekend she welcomed in muddy customers nervous to approach the store. 

“I never want it to feel intimidating to anyone. I want people to come in and experiment, look and play and try something they wouldn’t usually try. ”