I love this place, and have been an avid fan since it opened. The staff are helpful in the best possible way: present, useful, neither hovering nor pushy. Jess knows my wardrobe better than I do, even remembering things I bought years ago and assessing current pieces in that light. And the clothes! they're fun, useful, affordable, easy wear and easy care. A little different, so you won;t see your look all around you. Lotta different styles - casual, glam, office, beach and in-between. And alot of pieces are ageless: not trampy, teen-y nor matronly. I'm 70 and maybe a third of my wardrobe has been built over the years from Helena's. Check it out! read more

Beautiful, unique clothing. Prices are up-scale given the quality of the products. A lot of USA supported retailers are sold here as well making you feel good about your purchases. Jewelry is lower end, and looks more like costume jewelry. I bought a beautiful black jean dress here over 2 years ago and still love it!l wear it regularly and receive compliments all the time. There is also a new Belmont location that opened in 2020. Smaller but equally nice! read more

Are you desperately lonely? Would you like to hear people ask ten times in ten minutes, "Can I start a dressing room for you?" When you finally accept, would you like them to continue, unsolicited, to talk to you through the curtain about the whole dressing room situation while you're changing? Would you like them to ask, any time you leave the room for 45 seconds to get another dress, if you are finished with the changing room that they, themselves, badgered you into in the first place? Look no further than Helena's. Look, I get it. Somebody -- or multiple somebodies -- must have stolen from them. They have signs up talking about their surveillance cameras, and the constant harassment of customers who are simply trying to shop is probably a reaction to theft. But it makes this place a high-stress location to shop, unless, of course, you are desperate for dressing-room-based conversation. I intended to buy more things here than I did, but I got very, very tired of the constant interruptions, bought a couple of things, and left. On the upside, the clothes are great. I've bought many presents for friends here, and their vegan "leather" bags and raincoats have especially been a hit. I also believe that the staff are inherently good people who have been told by management to treat Helena's like a police state. If management could chill for five minutes, I would probably try to buy things there again. But in the meantime, I'm going to take a break. read more

Rudest clerk tonight and according to my receipt, her last name is Allen. I used to live in Arlington and would shop here 3-4x a year but now live in Boston and made a special trip to buy a present for a friend. Allen never asked if she could help or what I was looking for. Since it was 4:45 and she wanted to close at 5PM, it was clear that was on he mind. She even locked the door at 4:50. Wow... When I checked out I asked if they had gift wrap - "nope." Do you have gift boxes? - "nope." Nope? -- Nice response -- not.... when I told her my friend's b-day is 2/13 and could she return, she said the policy is 14 days. Today is 1/29, you can't extend a week?? She made it clear it was their policy. I paid the $187 and she didn't thank me. I said, don't you say thank your customers and she said, "not when they're rude to me." WTF??? She was the one who was rude. Wow..... unhappy clerk should find some happiness in life.... Will not shop here again or refer. Go to Bessie Blue -- Leigh and her staff are amazing with incredible customer service, gift boxes and gift wrap! read more

SO i love stopping into fancy one of a kind clothing boutiques but never buy anything b/c i get blown away by the high prices and small sizes. Helena's is an exception to that rule! After havign my daughter and visiting ISIS (which is connected to Helena's ) often, i decided to splurge on a few peices of new clothes to make me feel good about the going back to work with the extra 10 lbs of baby weight. The staff was friendly and helpful and i found some great peices that fit! and i didnt have to spend a fortune. Sure they have really expensive peices but they have affordable ones too ,and you won't look like everyone else wearing gap and banana republic (not that there's anythig nwrong with that!). Its just nice getting one of a kind peices at an affordable price. and its such a nice space to shop in. Another plus for moms is that you can comfortably shop with baby with confidence knowing there is a place to nurse and change baby (in the ISIS space) if you have to. i really love it here and wish i could shop hear more often but its just a little off the beaten path for me. The hours are generous though so i know i'll be able to stop in soon to treat myself! read more

Clearly this is a women's clothing store, and clearly I'm not a woman, BUT it just happens that sometimes you are in Arlington and you have to buy something FOR a woman. This is the place to go. They have lots of clothes and inexpensive jewelry ("accessories" if you're in the know, and I'm not). The nice thing is that all the stuff is not what you'd normally find really at any other store I'd ever find myself in (i.e., at the mall). The other nice thing is that the staff is always willing to help you out and give you advice. Priceless. If you really start exploring the space, though, you might end up in a different store if you're not careful. There are actually three stores in the same building, but if you're paying attention it shouldn't cause you much trouble. read more

I thought this place was a maternity store, but instead it's a fun boutique full of adorable clothes and jewelry! It's pretty large inside, and the salesperson helped me locate the kind of skirts I was looking for. Prices are what I'd consider moderate to high--I bought a dress and a skirt, each of which cost $86. They're good quality and I know I'll get a lot of use out of them, so it seemed like a good investment. Definitely worth peeking in here if you're in the Arlington area! read more

Simply beautiful, unique.clothing. My go-to spot for a nice, versatile-yet-funky piece. Pricey? Yes. I'd buy more if there were more consistent, frequent sales. But I do appreciate the discount with the Arlington community card. One complaint? The jewelry selection and quality are not on par with the clothing and other accessories. read more

Their clothes are really stylish and everything I've bought seems to be good quality, especially compared to other places now. Some things are a bit pricey but I think it's worth it for the quality. Good sales a lot of times too! The staff is also always nice and helpful and shopping here is overall a very pleasant experience. Love the beaded bracelet selection and always look at them but wish they had more size variety since they are all too big on my wrist. read more

I have to say how angry and surprised this makes me after supporting a local business. While finally having the time to do a return for store credit at this local establishment I was told that the return policy was for only for 14 days. The owner would not even believe that the policy was not stated to me and told me that 14 days was it. She was quite sure that the little sign she displays was there the day I bought things. She was not there, so I am not sure how she could have really known. It was on the bottom of the gift receipt but I never looked at it having been reassured by the clerk that a return would be no problem. She would not even budge when I explained to her that my sister had to have a 30 week emergency C section and has been obviously busy for the last 2 months running to the hospital everyday in Boston. On top of it my sis lives in Medfield and as I work at MIT we just never see each other. She simply didn't care. The clothing is pristine with tags(I don't even think my sister had time to try the stuff) and still sellable but this woman was more interested in making sure that she just kept my money (the outfit was over 200 dollars for just a top and pants, I spent 300 there.) She insisted that most "boutiques" have a 14 day return policy. Please. I kept asking her if she was refusing to give me any kind of store credit and she would just not give an answer to me in front of the other customers. I just talked to one of the gals over at Bessie Blue in Belmont and they thought this was kind of harsh, to not even offer a 50 percent store credit is just nasty. Oddly enough my neighbor also had a bad experience there as well about trying on a bracelet that was poorly made, having it break and then having the clerk tell her she needed to buy it!!! My father owned a business for over 25 years and I know what a good business person is and I also know what it is to have a heart. He knew how to do both. The owner of Helena's apparently does not have one. I am passing on this place and like they say, you reap what you sow. K Dooley read more

This store has lovely clothing and I enjoyed shopping there in the past. However, I won't be going back and here's why: I stopped in today to return a dress I purchased three weeks ago - hoping to get store credit. It was a lovely dress that did not fit me well. It was in the bag with the tag attached, unworn. I was told that they only take returns up to 14 days after purchase and not after. The staff explained that this is because it is often difficult to sell things and that items often go on sale. She mentioned that this dress had gone on sale. I offered to take the sale price in store credit but was told but was told this was not possible. I asked to speak to a manager and was told that I would need to return at a later date - on weekday between 10-6 to do this. I am busy physician. I am not free during these hours. To add to my frustration, one of the staff members mentioned that they had extended the Christmas return season to 1/10 - so they can be flexible - just weren't with me. I am totally dissapointed because I generally like this store and I prefer to support small local businesses. I am sorry to say I will not likely return. read more

Very disappointed after making a special trip there to check out their maternity wear that the no longer carry maternity. Once I got over that major annoyance I did find some generously cut, flattering clothes and beautiful necklaces. The staff was helpful. Overall, would recommend this store but would really appreciate if they would have updated their website to remove that they carry maternity. read more

Yes Helena's is pricey compared to JCrew etc but you get something unique that you will wear often. The store is all about key signature pieces in your wardrobe that will go with alot of things. The styles range from trendy to sporty, which accomodates a range of preferences and that is a big plus in my book. Treat yourself. And YES it's a great place for moms with infants to shop cause you can pop next door to nurse real quick at Isis if need be. read more

This place is literally sandwiched between two stores specializing in maternity/infant supplies, but Helena's also has a nice collection of non-maternity clothing and great accessories. I bought my wallet here and get compliments on it all the time. read more

Just moved to the area and I pass everyday by the store and love how everyweek the display is changed. The store owner or manager has a great sense of style. One day I gather my courage and walked into the store. The clothes were above my price range but the store manager was great. She gave me great pointers on how to dress smart even though I didn't buy anything from the store. It was very nice of her to give me a style lesson by quickly showing me few outfit options. She emphazised the fact that everyone can look dashing regardless of their size. Hopefully I will be able to buy some pieces when they have a sale. read more

I was looking for a nice but casual dress, and ended up trying on a few promising things but not finding exactly what I wanted. The woman who helped me was terrific, and ended up encouraging me to wear a dress that I had at home and gave me suggestions to dress it up. She definitely wanted me to be happy, and wasn't just trying to make some money. Prices weren't too bad, either. Really somewhere between two and three stars. The only reason I am giving four stars is that the non-maternity selection could be a little larger. read more

I love this spot! And feel especially fortunate that it is just around the corner from us. I had been initially resistant to checking them out, because the clothes (through the window!) look so fancy/high end, but I eventually did go in, and discovered their wide range of prices. There are plenty of $100+ items, but there are and equal amount of less expensive items - I've made out with some gorgeous tops, several pairs of sunglasses, and some lovely necklaces for me and for gifts. If you haven't been in, I recommend you check them out! (And the clerks have always been very friendly and happy to be helpful!) read more

Great store! It is a little dangerous for me as it is in easy walking distance from my pilates studio- when somebody cancels last minute and I have a free hour, I'll hop over to Starbucks and head down to Helena's. The woman behind the desk is always super sweet. They have a great selection of very cute and unique clothes! I purchased 2 dresses this winter that I love and have worn a few times, dressing them up and down according to the occassion. I have also received many positive compliments from friends and strangers on the dresses! I find Helena's prices to be very fair in comparison to other boutiques with similar lines of clothing. A must see! read more

This place is awesome! I found so many items for my mother and grandmother! The people made me feel welcomed and appreciated ... great town gem! read more

I live in Cambridge right over the line, and after driving by this store too many times, I finally had a chance to pop in today. What a gem! Although I really love clothes, I really hate the idea of having to spend free time looking for them. I like well made, stylish pieces that aren't clones of the mall stores or so different that they lack staying power for the next season. This store is great, and I actually bought a few things today that I LOVE and cannot wait to wear. They have a nice selection of stylish pieces, pretty scarves and some jewelry. The staff was great...helpful but not over the top. Don't be fooled into thinking that because this is a boutique store, the prices will be outrageous. Not true. Their prices are no more expensive than what you'd expect to pay for quality, super wearable, trendy and fun clothes. Check them out. I will definitely be back! read more

I love shopping at Helena's. Clothing selection is great- stylish yet practical (I spend my days around a two-year-old and four-year-old). Some stuff is pricey but you can also find less expensive items and you can occasionally strike gold with the sale rack. Staff is super helpful. read more

This is a gem of a shop tucked into the up and coming neighbourhood of Arlington, MA. It's a little hard to find because it's squeezed in between ISIS and Wild Child, but well worth the journey. An amazing selection of cleanly edited labels - some I've never found in shops before such as Velvet and XCVI. Amazing help from owner Katherine or her her manager Jessica who acts as your personal stylist. I never leave the store without something as the price points are entirely affordable and for things you won't see on anyone else. read more

I live just down the street and check in on Helena's at least once a month. They have a nice selection of fashionable clothes that work well for women who don't want to dress like teens, but still be fashionable and expecting moms. They carry brands you might find in Nordstrom, but pulled together in a great boutique. I do suggest trying on everything you pick out here especially since the return policy isn't most generous and sale is final. I've gotten some great things, but have frequently been surprised at how oddly things fit that look great on the hanger. (I'm 5"7, and a size 4 - 6, not at all an odd size) read more

I love this store! Not only is the clothing fun and cool, but the customer service is amazing. Jessica, in particular, is like a personal shopper when I go in. She helps me put outfits together that I wouldn't necessarily figure out on my own, and she is very honest in letting me know what looks good on me and what doesn't. There is a range of price points in what they sell, also making it a great place to shop for gifts. read more

Great customer service and their items are so cute and unique! They have a little bit of everything. I highly recommend going in esp if you're in the area. read more

Beautiful, unique women's clothing and jewelry pieces to be found at this gem of a shop.

I love this store in their Arlington location and often make special trips there. I was thrilled to find out that they were opening a location in Belmont (much closer for me). I made a trip over last week and it was the most awkward and potentially weird shopping experience I have ever had. The TWO clerks were both super nervous/awkward and borderline rude. Not one smile or nice thing said, and they stood around the silent store and basically stared at me the whole time. I couldn't WAIT to leave. Fortunately I have had much warmer experiences at the other location, but a word to the management... brush up on your warm customer interaction or you will not thrive in Belmont. read more

After reading Kate D's review, it is clear that the poor and irrational customer service is a pattern. I am a full time physician with kids and live in the area, and rarely have time to shop. When I have had time,Helena's has been a quick and sometimes reliable option, mostly because of its location. However, I am now ashamed to have this store in my neighborhood. I tried to return, or exchange, an obviously defective garment, but was told the defect had to be seen by the manager first, despite the clerk acknowledging the very obvious dye error at the seam on one side of the dress. I was not even permitted to exchange it for the same dress. This policy alone is offensive, but when my husband returned to make the exchange during his work hours the manager was not present when he was told she would be and by phone she told the 14 day exchange policy story and that we could not return. She also stated that regardless of the defect, she never refunds customers, just offers store credit. At this point, that option is unacceptable as I will not shop at Helena's again as a result of their anti- working woman, anti- family, anti- customer policies,not to mention bordering on unlawful. This is very unlike Arlington businesses. My two sisters and many friends who also live in the area, professional women with children, are all equally disappointed. I am hoping the actual manufacturer will replace the dress. read more