Master’s of London looks to the future

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This article was published 07/10/2019 (2505 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Master’s of London is still open for business. That’s the message that co-owners Ivan Master and Rita Master would like to deliver to customers.

Those of us who have visited — or just driven by — this high-end women’s retail store at 3411 Roblin Blvd. will have noticed the closing out sign has been taken down, and loyal customers will be pleased to know that the store will remain open for business indefinitely.

The Masters had planned to close the business because an offer to purchase the building that houses Master’s of London (the old Charleswood Department Store) was on the table. However, the sale has not progressed, so the store will continue to operate.

Master’s of London offers specialty brands by designers from Canada, Europe and the Far East.

The co-owners say they are committed to looking after their customers.

“We have been in business for 30 years, in River Heights, Tuxedo and Charleswood, Ivan says. “Many of our customers have followed us to the different locations.”

One reason customers remain loyal is the personalized service the co-owners provide. If a customer is looking for a dress for a special occasion and can’t find it in the store, she can order it, Ivan says. “She needs to be able to try it on and we never tell customers they have to buy it. We will work with the manufacturer.”

Ivan and Rita also pride themselves on helping customers find the look that is right for them.

“We know our customers and will give an honest opinion,” Ivan explains. “If a dress doesn’t look good or a fabric doesn’t fold right on their body, we tell them. People wearing our clothes are our advertisement.”

Customers who haven’t visited Master’s of London lately will find that this is a good time to reconnect.

“Pretty much everything is on sale and anything coming in is being sold at discount prices,” Ivan points out. “We are clearing out and marking down items for fall. Designer items are selling for $40.”

As a fashion-forward store, Master’s of London will continue to try out new concepts, Ivan adds. For example, a two-day pop up show featuring Linda Lundstrom fashions recently drew a crowd of shoppers.

Master’s will continue to run special events that have been big draws in the past.

“The Joseph Ribkoff Trunk Show, which is held two or three times a year, features samples for the upcoming season and includes entire lines and hot sellers. Customer scan try a sample on and if they need a different size, we can order it for them,” he says.

The next Joseph Ribkoff show is scheduled for Sat., Nov. 16.

Whether you’re a regular customer or haven’t shopped at Master’s of London, you will want to drop in and check out the fashions for fall and winter seasons.

Donna Minkus is a community correspondent for Charleswood.