Helen Lyall, owner of Helen Lyall Clothes for Women, a touted boutique that opened in the Riverfront complex in downtown Napa in 2010 after 35 successful years of running her women’s clothing store on Georgia Street in Vallejo. “You’re treated like royalty when you come into Helen’s store,” longtime customer, Sandee said on a recent visit and nearly every visitor to Lyall’s boutique was greeted by name. Refreshments were offered and comfortable chairs were provided. A small kitchenette area in the back was stocked with champagne glasses and dishware as if awaiting a party to begin. She has developed a strong Napa Valley following by offering both fashion and impeccable customer service.
The “Salon,” as it is called, offers a wide array of merchandise hand-picked by Lyall, including sportswear, dresses, coats, accessories, evening wear, furs, and even some boots and shoes. “We’re all about being unique,” Lyall said. The windows of the boutique give a glimpse of the glamour within. One example of a display was an elegant black silk strapless evening gown trimmed in feathers that stood next to a Michael Jackson-inspired military-style jacket with glitter accents. Between the two pieces, a greyhound statue wore a fur wrap. Lyall describes her 2,700-square-foot store as a specialty boutique with merchandise from European and American designers priced in the middle to upper price ranges. Featured designer lines; Alice & Olivia, Blanc Noir, Desigual, Johnny Was, AG Jeans, Young, Fabulous & Broke, Margaret O'Leary, Autumn Cashmere, Banana Blue, Petit Pois, Sarah Pacini, Xenia, Raffinalla, Simpli, Equestrian, Aida, Kinross Cashmere, White & Warren, Harrari, European Culture, Nicole Bakti, Issue, Jovani, Chamois Jewelry, LaMarque Leathers, Mitchie's Matchings, Gotex Hats, Charm, Street Ahead Belts, and Lysee New York. “We’re not a mall store in price or look,” she said. Prices at the boutique run the gamut; a pair of equestrian-styled pants are $185, jackets start at $125, scarves start at $45, and dresses from $100 and denim from $100. One highlight of the shop is a featherweight, reversible fox-trimmed raincoat for $650. One side featured fur strips, the other a best-selling waterproof raincoat.
One of the main reasons for relocating to Napa was to be in closer proximity to the many customers from Napa Valley. She wanted to be closer then the old Vallejo location, Another reason for locating in the Riverfront is that diners at Morimoto Napa and the other new Riverfront restaurants are the kinds of people who will appreciate her clothing, Lyall said. “This is a very unique area.” When a longtime customer from the Vallejo days, Joan of Napa, visited the new Salon she said “You’re here, I’m thrilled.” Lyall’s fashions “turns heads,” Another customer said, “This is really glamorous,” of the shop’s silver, black, and white color scheme; “It’s kind of over the top.”
Helen Lyall and her staff are well known for doing fashion shows for many fundraisers all over Napa County and the North Bay. The salon has supported the Napa Valley Symphony and Reach for the Stars. After running her businesses for almost 50 years, Lyall said she is not thinking of full retirement; “I’m obsessed with business. I’m not ready to retire.” “I’m so glad I’m here,” Lyall said, “and I love my store.” Lyall’s was the first retail clothing store to open in Riverfront, but it won’t be the last. Her son, Scott Lyall, also opened a men’s clothing store next door in 2010.
Visit Helen Lyall for a unique and elegant shopping experience. Includes personalized service, wardrobe consultation, lunch, free gift wrap, and more. Featuring some of the world’s greatest designers. The corporate gift program offers executive convenience. Your personal shopper will choose the perfect item, gift wrap it, and ship it… and you never have to leave the office.
