Lawyer Turns Passion into 'Statement'

Before she opened Statement in Chestnut Hill, Debbie Flynn was a globe hopping, high-powered lawyer.

“I had my own practice,” Flynn said.  “I lived in Paris for awhile, but the whole time clothes were my passion.”

Flynn would travel all over Europe snapping up the latest fashions wherever she could find them.

“I was in the fortunate position that I could buy whatever clothes I wanted,” Flynn said.  “I had a really crummy car.  I spent all of my money on clothes.”

“I liked to buy clothing that made a statement,” Flynn said.  “But they’re the kind of statements you can only make once.”

Then one morning Flynn had an idea.

“I knew just what I could do,” Flynn said.

Flynn decided she would open a consignment shop.  Yes, most of the clothes were hers, but there are pieces in her store from other people. 

As she puts it, “other people’s statements.”

“My clothes just weren’t worn enough,” Flynn said.  “They’re beautiful pieces, but you can’t make the same statement over and over again.”

Flynn added, “I decided that it was time for someone else to make a statement.”

For Flynn, it’s hard to say goodbye to her clothing, but in a sentimental way she knows they’re better off.

“All of these gorgeous things now have another life,” Flynn said.

Statement and Understatement are located at 7942 Germantown Ave.