LOUISE BOLGER | SUN
From left, Linda Clayton and Signa Bouziane offer resort wear,
accessories and more.
In 1966, we didn’t have cell phones, GPS, barcodes or disposable contact lenses, but there is something on Anna Maria Island that we did have and still do. Mr. Roberts Resort Wear had its grand opening on March 21, 1966, in Holmes Beach, and after 50 years it is going strong and isstill at the same location.
Mister Roberts was established by R. G. Roberts, Jr. and his wife, Tena, after he retired from a banking career. R. G. Roberts, Jr.’s father was a co-founder of the Montgomery Department Stores which were well known in the area for many years. Both R. G. and Tena are deceased, but their legacy has been passed down to their daughters Linda Clayton and Signa Bouziane, who still actively run their store.
Mr. Roberts has established itself as an Island icon and is known for its comfortable resort wear and accessories for both men and women. Some of the lines it carries are Lulu B, Hook & Tackle, Color Me Cotton, Jams World, Weekender, Salt Life, Bamboo Cay and Tormenter. There is a large selection of sandals for women by Havaianas as well as Rider and Island Slipper sandals for men.
You’ll also find beach bags, hats and shirts many with UPF sun protection, AMI shirts and men’s casual belts. In fact, there’s a little bit of everything scattered around the shop including Tervis tumblers, towels, eyewear, jewelry and scarfs.
Clayton and Bouziane want to thank their loyal and repeat customers who sometimes just stop in to say hi when they return to the Island and especially their wonderful and long time staff. Jane Bonneson is working at Mister Roberts almost 20 years and is officially the sisters’ adopted sister, Rosalee Moore has also been with them a long time as well and more recently Nancy LaMorie and Lisa Boyles.
And although the inventory at Misster Roberts has changed during its 50 years with more contemporary lines of clothing added, the friendly staff and service are still the same. It’s a comfortable store to shop in, and if you’re new to the Island, don’t let the name fool you. Both men and women will find just what they’re looking for in casual clothing. Watch for an ad in this paper since there will be anniversary specials and coupons to celebrate this impressive milestone.
Bouziane says they are selling service with a bit of therapy thrown in, and one of her favorite days was when she overheard a customers say, “This is our favorite store on the Island.” After 50 years Mister Roberts is probably the favorite store of a lot more people, and since it started before Prozac was invented, the therapy is complimentary.
MISTER ROBERTS RESORT WEAR
5330 Gulf Drive
Holmes Beach
941-778-4505
Monday – Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
All major credit cards
accepted