The designer evening wear boutique Elizabeth Anthony and the legendary specialty store Esther Wolf merged in the Fall of 2003 to bring luxury apparel and a wonderful shopping experience to the social occasions “needs” and “wants” of women of three generations.
The owner, Julie Phillips Roberts, has led the company through tremendous growth. Esther Wolf (circa 1962) and Elizabeth Anthony (circa 1996) supports the local community through style shows, fund raisers and contributions to many of Houston’s charities; including the United Way of Greater Houston, American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, Assistance League of Houston, Houston Junior Woman’s Club, Junior League of Houston, Ronald McDonald Foundation, The Women’s Home, Women of Distinction, American Cancer Society, Star of Hope Foundation and Trees of Hope, to name a few.
Julie Phillips Roberts began her career with five dresses, she personally wore to the Miss America Pageant, in a 500 square foot office/salon in 1987. As an image consultant to Miss America and Miss USA candidates, Julie spent the first years of her career teaching young women to be successful in state and national competitions and in life. Her ability to package and polish winners was second to none, and her gift was to make one feel special.
In 1996, Elizabeth Anthony Collection became a shopping destination not only for pageant hopefuls – but women wanting excellence in social occasion dressing. She wanted every customer that walked through the door to look and feel beautiful. That was the goal and mission.
Several thousand clients (friends and winners) later, she decided that a new challenge was to be had. Thus, she purchased the venerable Esther Wolf, and forged a merger that was unprecedented in the industry. It has been quite a journey.
Mrs. Roberts lives in Houston with her husband Gary, and children Jennifer Elizabeth, Justin Anthony, Rachel and their family miniature schnauzer Abigail. |
