A boutique retailer in Barrington says they are “overwhelmed by love” from the community and are set to announce a grand reopening after six masked suspects stole almost everything from them.
The Barrington Police Department responded around 5 a.m. on December 28 to ReStyle Designers of Barrington, 121 South Cook Street, following reports of a disturbance.
Barrington Police Chief David Daigle said a resident living above the business called 911 after hearing multiple males yelling loudly outside and witnessing two vehicles speeding away from the scene.
Officers discovered that the front door of ReStyle Designers had been forced open.
The business owner, who was notified of the incident, responded to the scene and provided officers with surveillance footage that captured a burglary, Daigle said.
ReStyle Designers of Barrington said nearly all of the store’s inventory was stolen, leading to years of hard work and trust “gone in seconds.”
“We are devastated, but we are not giving up. This store has always been about community, and our clients and consignors are more than customers, you are our family,” the store owners said.
“We are grateful to the Barrington Police Department for their prompt response and ongoing assistance,” the store said.
Surveillance video captured the entire heist, which occurred when the store was closed.
Six suspects, wearing all black with masks and gloves, forced entry to the front door of the business.
Alarms could be heard activating in the video as the suspects quickly ransacked the shelves and display cases of products.
The suspects shoveled products into garbage bags and fled the ReStyle Designers of Barrington — all in just one minute.
The store owners said approximately 85% of their inventory was stolen. “Our hearts are broken.”
ReStyle Designers of Barrington said in an update Sunday that the past week has reminded them “just how powerful” the community is, leading them to be “overwhelmed by the love, messages, offers of help, and support.”
“Your kindness has meant more to us than we can ever fully express… Because of you, we are moving forward, strong and more determined than ever,” ReStyle Designers said.
The business said they have significantly ramped up security and are taking every step possible to protect their team, the store and customers.
A grand reopening is set to be announced “very soon.” “Thank you for believing in us, support small business, and helping us turn a difficult moment into a powerful comeback.”
ReStyle Designers of Barrington is described as a quaint resale boutique with vintage and modern designer apparel, shoes and accessories.
Their social media advertises designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel.
Daigle said detectives are actively investigating the case and are working to identify the suspects involved. No arrests have been announced as of Wednesday.
Anyone with information regarding the burglary or the suspects involved is asked to contact Detective Gruenthal at 847-304-3334.