When you walk into Bendita – Clothing with a Soul, located in the heart of Coral Gables, you will be greeted personally by its owner, Florencia Welch.
Creating Bendita was truly a labor of love for Welch. This eclectic clothing boutique, which opened on Mar. 16 of this year, boosts an atmosphere of elegance, fashion-forward sensibilities with racks of color coordinated clothing, shoes and accessories.
“I have always loved fashion and wanted to bring a different type of store with European style to Coral Gables,” Welch said.
Bendita specializes in fine silks from Spain and Italy, including blouses, dresses, skirts and pants. Also, beautiful shoes, jewelry and women’s accessories are hand selected from around the world.
Bendita’s story begins with the owner. As a child, Welch developed a passion for fashion, style and design in Salta, Argentina. She not only lists Coco Chanel and Ralph Lauren as inspirations but also the local artisans of her province in Argentina.
Florencia later moved to Miami working in other industries but with a keen eye and appreciation for women’s clothing designs. A few years ago, she fell in love with silk blouses and dresses being made in Spain and Italy. This eventually led to her own boutique where she is responsible for personally selecting all of the unique products for her shop whether fine silk from Europe or colorful artisan handbags from her home country of Argentina.
Welch lives in Coral Gables with her husband, Richard, and their three daughters. They were married at the Biltmore Hotel and restored an Old Spanish home in the Golden Triangle.
“We love Coral Gables,” she said. “We got married here; we live here, and are raising our daughters here. We wanted to be more a part of the community.
“I looked for a location specifically in Coral Gables that allowed me to create a shop styled in the traditions of a French boutique,” Welch added. “I desired a warm location for women looking for fine European clothing to visit or even to share conversation with a cup of tea.”
Bendita – Clothing with a Soul is located at 85 Merrick Way in Coral Gables. The boutique hours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; closed on Sunday. For more information call 305-364-5145.
