Style is not just about what you wear. It is about how you feel, how you move through the world, and how confidently you show up in your everyday life. In this episode of Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Joanna Knott, owner of Monkee’s of Raleigh, for a thoughtful conversation about fashion, business, and the power of community in Raleigh.

Located in the heart of North Hills, Monkee’s Raleigh has become a favorite destination for women looking for approachable style, expert guidance, and a welcoming shopping experience that feels personal from the moment you walk in.

From Childhood Inspiration to Boutique Owner

Joanna’s love for fashion began early. Growing up, she spent countless hours playing in her grandmother’s closet, learning how to mix pieces, style outfits, and express personality through clothing. That early influence shaped her lifelong passion for fashion and her natural ability to help others feel confident in what they wear.

Today, that passion shows up not only in the carefully curated collections at Monkee’s, but also in how Joanna connects with customers. Whether she is styling someone in store or walking followers through outfit options on Instagram, her goal is always the same, to make fashion feel fun, accessible, and empowering.

Styling Real Life in Raleigh

One of the biggest themes of the episode is versatility. Joanna understands that for many women, getting dressed can feel overwhelming. Between work, family, social commitments, and everyday errands, wardrobes need to work hard.

At Monkee’s Raleigh, the focus is on helping customers build outfits that can be worn multiple ways, creating ease and confidence long after they leave the store. This approach resonates deeply with Raleigh women, whose days often include everything from carpools to meetings to dinner plans.

Joanna and her team meet customers where they are in life, offering elevated casual looks, polished workwear, and special occasion pieces that feel true to each individual’s lifestyle.

What an Investment Piece Really Means

During the conversation, Joanna shares her perspective on investment pieces and why cost per wear matters more than a price tag.

A timeless blazer, a quality handbag, or a great pair of shoes can become staples that last for years.

At Monkee’s, customers will find a wide range of price points, along with thoughtfully selected pieces that offer designer quality without unnecessary markups. The goal is to help women shop with intention and build wardrobes that grow with them.

Trends That Feel Timeless

As someone who regularly attends market, Joanna has a front row seat to what is coming next in fashion. She shares that current and upcoming trends include rich neutrals like browns and navies, larger scale prints, western inspired details, denim, and a shift back toward more structured silhouettes.

After years of flowy styles, tailoring and structure are making a return, offering a refreshed balance of polish and comfort. These trends align perfectly with Raleigh’s lifestyle and Monkee’s signature blend of modern and timeless style.

A Boutique Built on Relationships

What truly sets Monkee’s Raleigh apart is the experience. Joanna trains her team to treat every customer the way they would welcome someone into their own home. From offering a drink to taking time to truly listen, the focus is always on making people feel seen and cared for.

Monkee’s plays a role in many meaningful moments in customers’ lives, from weddings and baby showers to job interviews and everyday confidence boosts. That relationship driven approach is at the heart of the brand and a big reason why the store feels so special.

Why Raleigh Feels Like Home

As a Raleigh native and NC State alum, Joanna has watched the city grow while still holding onto its sense of community. In the episode, she and Gretchen discuss how Raleigh offers the amenities of a larger city while maintaining a welcoming, connected feel.

For business owners and locals alike, Raleigh continues to be a place where relationships matter and community support makes a difference.

Visit Monkee’s of Raleigh

You can find Monkee’s of Raleigh in North Hills at 4158 Main at North Hills Street, Suite 100. Look for the pink doors and black and pink awnings, right in the middle of one of Raleigh’s most vibrant shopping areas.

Shop online at monkeesofraleigh.com and follow along on Instagram at @monkeesofraleigh for daily styling inspiration, new arrivals, and behind the scenes moments.

New episodes of Best of Raleigh drop weekly on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, spotlighting the people, places, and businesses that make Raleigh such a great place to live.