Sum Girls

A LITTLE SUMTHING FOR EVERYONE!

ONE OF THE MANY LESSONS OF THE PAST FEW YEARS HAS BEEN THAT NOTHING BEATS MAKING GOOD MEMORIES WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

That drive to connect with people has always been part of the philosophy at Sum Girls Boutique, a place that owner Robyn Coden describes as a whimsical, happy place of sustainability, empowerment, sisterhood and fun. “It’s a shot of self-care dopamine when you need a break from the world,” says Robyn.

To that end, she recently redecorated a large portion of the store and transformed it into a comfy lounge area with “super steals” sales racks and gift items. And that’s on top of featuring ongoing sales and special events like pop-up guests and themed occasions that align with city-wide festivals.

Although “girls” is in the name, Sum Girls actually caters to girls and women of all ages from middle school to menopause. (Sum Girls is inspired by Dim Sum & Doughnuts, a female empowerment blog that Robyn started writing in 2011 for her daughters. Also, Robyn and her husband both love The Rolling Stones’ Some Girls album.)

THE SHOP FEATURES APPAREL, ACCESSORIES, SHOES AND GIFTS that are sustainable and socially conscious. If anything doesn’t sell within its consignment period, it’s passed on to Sum Girls’ charity partner, The Charles R. Drew Transition Center in Detroit. It’s a farm-to-school program and work-based facility that helps mentally and physically challenged adults between the ages of 18 and 26 find their place in the world.

“Philanthropy is one of the important components of Sum Girls,” Robyn says. “Because of the items we donate, the Center has started its very own Drew Boutique at the facility, where students can learn daily living skills that may lead to employment and community inclusion.”

It's Robyn’s fifth year of having her shop in Berkley, and she’s still thrilled about being here. “I love being part of an up-and-coming area that still maintains a retro vibe, complete with the big neon Berkley sign from the old movie theater right across the street!” she says, adding that the smell of great food wafting in from nearby restaurants is another bonus. Just like her shop, Berkley is a good-vibes kind of place.

3015 12 Mile Road, Berkley MI 48072 | 248.677.4900 | www.sumgirlsboutique.com