Pictured: Tyni and Paul Lazzaro bring New York style to Sarasota with Brooklyn Boutique. Photo by Eliana Burns.

Attention all fashion fanatics! Brooklyn Boutique, on South Pineapple Avenue, has recently opened. True to their New York roots, owners Tyni and Paul Lazzaro have cultivated a melting pot of garments, brilliantly blending the edge of New York with the coastal cool of Sarasota.

“I’m originally from Brooklyn, and I grew up all over New York. I wanted to bring the vintage feel and experience of Soho and Brooklyn here.” Says Tyni, “Growing up, my favorite spots were in Brooklyn, Soho, Wooster Street, and West 4th. Looking back reminded me that we don’t have shops like that in South Florida.”

Growing up in New Jersey and Brooklyn respectively, Paul and Tyni have been falling in love with Sarasota for over a decade. After their family moved to Sarasota seventeen years ago, the couple visited the city countless times, studying the culture and enjoying the sun. “It’s gorgeous.” Tyni explains, “Especially with the local art around Pineapple Avenue, once the opportunity came to open something that we wanted to open, it definitely had to be here.”

Tyni continues, “I feel like Sarasota has become a huge melting pot, which I love. That’s what New York is known for. And I also noticed that people do miss their homes, whether they’re snowbirds or if they’ve been here for 20 years. People are coming in just because they see the sign–they’re still curious because home is home.”

Tyni’s experience working for high-end brands like Barneys and Wolford makes her no stranger to fashion and trend cycles. “I did that for years,” Tyni explains, “I can see what people want.” When she needs a second opinion, she turns to family, “My son, he’s helped us a lot to pick stuff, especially for the younger spectrum.” 

Reflecting on the boutique’s divergence from traditional coastal merchandise, Tyni continues, “Many boutiques here are coastal. I know that people wanted something a little different, more wearable stuff. We have to cater to that.” 

Carrying a variation of garments, Brooklyn Boutique serves an array of styles. Calling back to her experience in retail, Tyni implements the variation found at larger stores at her boutique. From trending tank tops to evening attire, Brooklyn Boutique aims to meet every need–even men’s wear. “We’re getting a lot of men that are interested.” Paul says, “There’s just not a lot for men at your usual boutique.” 

In the future, the Lazzaros hope to increase Brooklyn Boutique’s selection of merchandise that reflects their cultural background. “I’m from Ecuador and he’s Italian,” Tyni says. For me it’s important to bring little spurts of my culture.” Currently, they have Tagua bracelets, amazingly made from palm tree nuts native to the tropical rainforests of Ecuador.

Brooklyn Boutique is an appreciated addition to Sarasota’s blooming fashion scene. From adorable glass mugs to stylish, practical clothing, Brooklyn Boutique just might have what you need.

Brooklyn Boutique, 407 South Pineapple Ave., 941-444-7265.

Pictured: Tyni and Paul Lazzaro bring New York style to Sarasota with Brooklyn Boutique. Photo by Eliana Burns.

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