F. Bianco Opens in Wayland Square

I’m just going to be honest here. I didn’t think I was going to like F. Bianco. It’s sort of like when a small child insists he doesn’t like carrots simply because they’re shaped like parsnips and he doesn’t like those either; admittedly, something about the store’s online description – “a fine women’s clothing boutique” – stuck in my craw. Experience breeds wisdom, and I thus assumed the shop would mimic the other stuffy, overpriced upscale boutiques I loathed.

But then, upon visiting the store, I discovered that experience also breeds pre-conceived notions that aren’t at all true.

Sandwiched in between Red Stripe and Books on the Square, F. Bianco’s small storefront is rather non-descript. Except, of course, for the dazzling dresses hung in the window. From sequined shifts to sumptuous body-con numbers, the collection is simply stunning. Seriously, this boutique is my new go-to for whenever I need a new dress for an event or a party. And while prices are a bit steeper than those at a big box department store it’s totally worth it. There are no disposable items here; these frocks are show-stoppers you’ll keep forever.

Owner Florence Voccola glimpses me perusing her racks and says hello. She’s a stylish lady in a white button-down wrap blouse and patterned thick-rimmed eyeglasses. I compliment her impeccable taste and she thanks me graciously. “I choose everything myself,” she says. “I attend a lot of trade shows and I try to buy American-made whenever possible.”

Florence has been in business for 32 years now; this is F. Bianco’s third retail location. “We opened here in late June,” she tells me. “I was in Garden City forever but then this space opened up and I decided that it was time to close up shop and move to Providence.” Florence notes that she has a very loyal client-base; many have already come to check out her new city digs. “They’ve even brought me flowers!” she exclaims, gesturing at the blooms that surround her register.

F. Bianco’s collection of women’s clothing includes gowns, cocktail dresses, jeans, slacks, basic tops – tanks start at $38 – luxurious cashmere sweaters, accessories and more. I fall madly in love with a graphic bustled number that could be worn either low as a long skirt or high as a tube top dress. It reminds me of the artsy, designer pieces sold in high-end boutiques in Paris and Lisbon.

Lying on the countertop are three of the most buttery-soft leather sleeveless tops that I’ve ever laid eyes on; in black, cream and olive green, the lightweight button-down tanks could be dressed up or down. I envision myself in the cream top, with ripped skinny jeans and sky-high heels. But then again, the olive tank would go fab with a printed pencil skirt and loads of gold jewelry. “It’s washable leather!” Florence tells me excitedly. “Isn’t it wonderful?” Indeed.

The accessory and jewelry section at F. Bianco is pretty wonderful, too. From bedazzled rock ‘n’ roll cross necklaces to RI-made fabric wrap bracelets to glam chandelier earrings, there are items to suit women of all ages and items to “go” with any aesthetic. A few oversized cotton and silk scarves just call to be on hand in case of a chilly evening. They’re the perfect accompaniment to a basic solid tank dress.

“I really love it here in Providence,” Florence tells me with a smile, “and I’m excited to be here in Wayland Square. It’s a great location with great people.” And in my opinion, F. Bianco is a better-than-great addition to our local shopping scene.

F. Bianco. 467 Angell Street, Providence. 228-6606