By Natashia Contreras
Adorned with a stone-blue awning, The Stand, located at 83 Purchase St., marked its grand opening on March 21, the first Westchester business for retail veteran Betsie Carroll of Larchmont.
Carroll, who cut her teeth in retail while working at musician Carly Simon’s “Midnight Farm” boutique on Martha’s Vineyard, has been an accessories and apparel buyer for high-end shops in New York and Massachusetts as well as a personal stylist. She has collaborated with designers throughout New York City. She was also the owner of “The Stand Mercantile” on Shelter Island, which sought to create a farm-stand vibe for clothing and accessories. The Stand in Rye seeks to do the same thing.
Carroll and her family decided it was time to depart from Shelter Island and moved to Larchmont three years ago. She searched for a location for a retail outlet for a long time before discovering the spot on Purchase Street, which was previously occupied by Misfit Bazaar, a shop that opened in 2021.
She was familiar with the city of Rye through friends and family members, and was captivated by its “amazing shops and inviting presence, as well as its essence of charm.” All this made Carroll confident it was a good place to build a business.
The Stand offers both women’s and men’s apparel, all curated by Carroll from her favorite designers. Shoppers will find labels from France, Australia, New York, Los Angeles, and Dublin, Ireland. Carroll describes her fashions as “chic but timeless, elevated basics in addition to novelty pieces.” She said she enjoys “curating, buying, and seeking out those unique one-of-a-kind beautiful items that no one else can find.” She looks forward to working with customers because “finding that something special for everyone’s personal wardrobe brings me joy.”
The boutique also merchandises accessories including jewelry and handbags. Carroll said she hopes to eventually market home gifts.
The Rye community and neighboring business have “been supportive and welcoming” to her new shop, Carroll said, and she’s grateful for their kindness.
