A popular clothing retailer has almost doubled the size of its flagship store on Reid Street in Hamilton.

The Authentic Bermuda Shorts (TABS), has created a 2,130 square-foot concept store that owner and designer Rebecca Singleton says showcases not only a variety of island-inspired clothes and accessories, but also highlights more than 20 other local artisans and select international brands, including johnnie-O, Salt & Stone and Joules.

Ms Singleton said: “I hope this expansion is proof that retail is not dead. It is an important sector in our economy and not only provides thousands of jobs, but also creates experiences and destinations for our locals and visitors.

“My goal with TABS 2.0 was to create a concept store that showcases our product and the beautiful island that inspires everything we do at TABS.

“I wanted the store to feel like a vacation and encourage people to stay awhile.”

Ms Singleton is showcasing the work of local artists in large prints and custom murals, and offering an instant camera, encouraging people to snap a photo in front of the Moongate and “make a wish”.

There is a reading and drawing corner for children, a “consultation bar” for help from a local stylist and a Bermuda puzzle table for those waiting for shoppers.

A wall of history on Bermuda shorts has a style guide on how and when to wear them.

The store remained open during renovations, which saw TABS take over the space formerly occupied by Jordan Roberts jewellers.

Ms Singleton said: “We built a partition to separate the spaces so while the contractors were working on one area, we were able to keep the other open.

“This meant a few late nights and early mornings by both teams, but maintaining our regular business hours and having a seamless transition was very important to me during our peak season.”

She said TABS employed local designers, contractors, photographers, and artists who collectively created a space that is uniquely Bermudian.

Ms Singleton added: “Like most businesses, the pandemic has hit us hard, but we’ve managed to pull through even stronger with a hardworking team, local collaborations, and the tremendous support of our customers.”

She said the redesigned flagship store boasts features by local mural artist, Kendra Earls, and Bermudian photographer Gavin Howarth.

Ms Singleton added that Bermudian Catherine White was the interior designer, ALM construction performed and oversaw the renovation, and the wall prints were applied by Bermuda Sign Printers.

Founded in 2013, TABS first opened a retail outlet in the summer of 2016 and has steadily grown by expanding their range of clothing for men, women, and children.

Shorts are now offered in four fabric types and more than 30 vibrant, island-inspired colours, while the TABS collection also includes award-winning swim shorts, resort wear for ladies, and a performance line.

TABS, located at 12 Reid Street, is open Monday to Saturday from 10am until 5.30pm, and Sundays from 1pm until 5pm.

See the website at www.tabsbermuda.com, and social handles @tabsbermuda.