Try Rae’s First to close after a 32 year run, by Erin DeGregorio

Try Rae’s First, a clothing store located at 430 Court Street, is closing. The store, named after owner Raina Passo’s mother Rae, was one of the first of its kind along Court Street in the mid-80s. Her lease was not renewed by the landlord. She has released the following letter to her clients:

My store will be closing on December 31.
A heartfelt message to my customers:
When I opened my store in 1986, I never imagined the many lives that would touch my heart and the friendships I would make. I have known generations of families. Though it is heartbreaking to leave, I am still left with so many fond memories of holidays, birthdays and special events you have so generously shared with me. Thank you for all of your support and friendship throughout the years.
Much gratitude,
Rae

With just weeks to go before closing, Passo has a large photo album with her behind the counter. The pages upon pages of pictures, protected in separate sections of cellophane, serve as reminders of great memories collected and cherished through the decades. She reminisced that she’s been to a number of her customers’ anniversary parties, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs and more, and even helped some find outfits for such occasions.

“Any special event in their life is a special event in my life,” she said. “Seeing the excitement and joy with my customers is something so amazing.”

She explained that it was the little things that impacted her in a big way.

“It’s so special to help somebody find the perfect outfit,” she said. “If I can put a smile on their face, it just makes my day.”

Passo said the store was able to stay open for three decades because it wasn’t just local Brooklynites (and their kids and grandchildren) supporting the mom-and-pop business; it was also shoppers from places like Europe, Long Island, Connecticut, New Jersey and Westchester checking out her clothes and making purchases. She believes that it was the customer service she offered – getting to know customers personally and their preferred styles – that helped clients feel comfortable to come back again and again.

“It’s not just shopping for the sales; it’s like shopping with a friend here,” Passo said.

Her inventory constantly changed with new arrivals based on the seasonal weather, what the latest trends and styles were, and what her customers would typically gravitate toward. For example, summer apparel ranged from sundresses and bathing suits to fedoras for men and women, and fall fashion featured sweaters, cardigans and jean jackets. The store also sold sportswear, graphic tees, jeans, blouses, jewelry and bags – anything to help complete an ensemble that could make you look and feel your best. Right now there are men’s and women’s winter apparel available, including waterproof down jackets, sweatshirts and sweatpants, scarves and more in different colors and styles – with everything in the store being on sale.

Passo told this paper that neighborhood rents are “too high and too expensive,” which is why she’s not currently looking to open another storefront. But she is encouraging both new and old customers alike to visit Try Rae’s First and to celebrate with her instead. It will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays (noon-7 pm) and Sundays (noon-5 pm) until December 31.

George Fiala

George Fiala has worked in radio, newspapers and direct marketing his whole life, except for when he was a vendor at Shea Stadium, pizza and cheesesteak maker in Lancaster, PA, and an occasional comic book dealer. He studied English and drinking in college, international relations at the New School, and in his spare time plays drums and fixes pinball machines.