A Bit Brazen: A New Boutique on the Downtown Block

by Kerri Cooke

If you type the word “Brazen” into Google, Oxford Languages defines the word as “bold and without shame.” Crystal Robbins, owner of Brazen Boutique in downtown Lake Charles, says she was brainstorming names for her store when a friend suggested the word. The definition cemented the idea of what she wanted her business to represent.

Robbins grew up in San Antonio, Texas, and moved to SWLA when she was 17. Growing up in a big city gave her a unique perspective on how to diversify the clothing market in Lake Charles. Robbins said she “outgrew what we had here” and found herself shopping online and out-of-town more than she liked. Her goal with Brazen is to “bring a different aesthetic to Lake Charles.”

Robbins encourages women to “step out of their comfort zones” and “put something on they’re not used to wearing.” She provides a small, curated collection of clothing consisting of neutral tones and outfits that can go from day to night with the addition of accessories. Robbins wants women to get “more use of what they’re buying.” While she gets new inventory every day, she never wants anyone to feel overwhelmed by choices when they walk in the door. Customers can browse or Robbins will make recommendations based on what the client says they are looking for.

Robbins says she has always loved the downtown vibe and knew if she opened a store, she wanted it to be downtown. She passed by her current location, 313 Broad St., in September 2023, and when it became vacant in December, she inquired and signed the lease. Brazen opened in March, and Robbins took part in Spring Art Walk, which was a big success. She invited collaborators to join her – one individual did onsite permanent jewelry and another created trucker hats.
Robbins appreciates that downtown festivals provide the opportunity to pick up “organic foot traffic.” On other occasions, people stop in after grabbing lunch or a cup of coffee. Robbins emphasizes that she wants the shopping experience to be personal. Because she works for herself, she serves all customers and makes a point of conversing not just about clothing needs but about life too. There is even a “husband area,” a zebra print chair in the corner for husbands to comfortably wait while their wives shop.
Brazen carries sizes XS to 3X. Robbins encourages women to stop by if they see something they like on her social media. The goal of having a storefront was so women could see how clothing looks on their bodies.

Credit goes to her friends and husband for helping her accomplish her dream of owning a clothing store, Robbins says. If the community wants to see what’s new at her shop, Robbins advises people to visit once a week. Small events are held regularly to encourage locals to get downtown and into Brazen.