The North Balwyn Village is one of those suburban gems where the hip and fashionably conscious of all ages will meet to check out the latest clothes styles. From just born to our beautiful seniors and every age in between, North Balwyn Village has it all.
One of those amazing gems with an incredible story of resilience is the beautifully appointed, with equally beautiful shop hosts – Stanley and Stone owned by the gregarious and gorgeous Ainsley Sinocco and Narelle Dominguez.
It was October 2020, Melbourne was just emerging from one of the biggest lockdowns known for generations and these two sassy ladies took the gamble to open their Stanley and Stone ladies’ fashion, accessories and homewares store at 68B Doncaster Road, North Balwyn Village.
In fact, their bold move, facing an unknown future made headlines in The Herald Sun.
Two years ago this month, as they were about to open The Herald Sun wrote:
“In adversity, there are always stories of opportunity. Such as Ainsley Sinicco, who saw a “for lease” sign and pursued her dream of opening a clothes shop.
Fresh from homeschooling five children, she hoped for a “positive out of the negative”, and cannot imagine a better time to start a business.
Her Stanley & Stone shop in North Balwyn has its grand opening on Wednesday (28 October 2022). She believes some women have tired of shopping online, and would avoid major shopping centres for fear of infection.
“I’m thinking retail strips will have a bit of a comeback,” she said. “The shop is the brainchild of COVID.”
Indeed out of all the negative came this amazingly, positive story that keeps getting more positive two years on.
Ainsley Sinicco says: “ We have been Incredibly overwhelmed at how the community has embraced our store. There was a large gap in the market for clothing for busy mums who wanted to remain stylish.
“We cater for all ages in our store, and love seeing how a simple outfit can change how we feel. Our customers make our business, and we are incredibly grateful for their support.
“We supply brands such as Zoe Kratzmann, Hammil & Co, Italian Star, Rollie Nation, Murkani jewelry, Sage & Clare Homewares, Alessandra Cashmere, Maggie the label and many more.
“We stock a large range of beautiful clothes, shoes, accessories and jewellery, sleepwear and gifts.
“There really is something for everyone in store. We specialise in making today’s women feel wonderful,” Ainsley Sinicco says.
STANLEY & STONE – owners Ainsley Sinocco and Narelle Dominguez – 68B Doncaster Road, North Balwyn Village; Phone: 03 9099 0796
Stanley & Stone is one of 55 businesses offering a shopping and services experience to our customers. Come shop with us – where the biggest smiles and the best service are waiting to greet you.