Strange Boutique was an American gothic rock band formed in Washington, D.C., in 1987. The group was founded by vocalist Monica Richards and guitarist Fred "Freak" Smith, previously of the influential punk band Beefeater. Drawing from ethereal wave, post-punk, and gothic rock influences, Strange Boutique developed a distinctive sound characterized by atmospheric guitar work, moody textures, and Richards' powerful, otherworldly vocals. During their active years, Strange Boutique gained a devoted following within the underground gothic and alternative music scenes. They released several albums through the 1990s, including their debut "The Loved One" in 1991 and follow-ups like "Charm" and "The Kindest Worlds," which showcased the band's blend of haunting melodies and emotional intensity. Despite never achieving mainstream success, Strange Boutique left a lasting impression on the gothic rock genre. The band disbanded in the mid-1990s, and Monica Richards later gained recognition as part of Faith and the Muse, another prominent act within the gothic and neoclassical dark wave circles. Strange Boutique briefly reunited in the early 2000s for reunion shows, reaffirming their status as cult favorites in the gothic rock community.