Think Pink!

Accessories available at the Pink Hibiscus Boutique.

Inside Pink Hibiscus Boutique.

Can Washington DC handle another hip, trendy and effortlessly stylish boutique? Silly question, huh? Well pull your pocket books and blackberrys out, this one’s worth noting. With new shipments arriving daily, Pink Hibiscus Boutique never fails to impress. Even the most disciplined fashionista would have a hard time resisting the labels on offer. Nicole Miller, Prada, Fendi, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Michael Kors, Trina Turk, Kitchen Orange, BCBG and Missoni being just a few. Whether it’s a business suit, cocktail dress or evening gown your after, Pink Hibiscus can provide. Sylvia Pool, who launched the boutique just over three months ago after 21 years in the real estate business says, “many pieces that you find at Pink Hibiscus are sexy, classy and rich in color, fabric and design. You had better have the confidence to wear them!” Confidence isn't the problem, fighting temptation however is an ongoing struggle. I dare you to test your will...

Address:
Pink Hibiscus Boutique

2604 Georgia Ave, NW

2nd Floor

Washington, DC 20009

Store inquiries: 202 332 3333

Shake It Like You Really Mean It!

Shake Your Booty’s inviting and funky store front in DC’s Adams’s Morgan.

D.C. natives have a secret. When they want the best in funky, unique and stylish shoes that don’t break the purse strings, they head to only one place – Shake Your Booty! Most of the shoes are made by unknown designers but don’t let that deter you, cuteness does not discriminate. You can also buy some great accessories at the boutique and I hear they have started selling clothes too. With the fun and zest of a New York Boutique but the prices of a regular high-street store a girl can’t go wrong. Sorry D.C., I just couldn’t keep it a secret anymore!
Left to right: Naughty Monkey, $89.99; President, $69; Madeline, $49.99

Left to right: Sugar Shoes, $39.99; Two Lips Rachelle, $59.99; Rebels Patti

Address:
Shake Your Booty
2439 18th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Store inquiries: 202 518 8205

Wunderbloc

“Coclico” in NoLita, NY
Left to right: “Fille De Joie” in Brooklyn; “Mark Montano” in East Village; “TG170” in Lower East Side

New York is one of the world’s most exciting places to shop, but even an eagle-eyed fashionista can miss a trendy boutique tucked away, down some alley. Enter Wunderbloc. The ingenious new site that puts some of New York’s underground (and notorious) boutiques at your fingertips. And if you’re not a New Yorker but plan on visiting soon, this takes the stress out of finding the stores that you must visit. Not only does the site break down all the fashion haunts in each borough, it also displays photos of the most stylish people in each neighborhood (see post below). Visit www.wunderbloc.com to see the highest rated boutiques, interact with fellow style connoisseurs and start a scrap book of all your favorite boutiques/fashionistas.

A Million Little Pieces…

Latisha and Colin Daring of the Piece’s Boutiques.

Husband and wife duo, Latisha and Colin Daring of Pieces of Brooklyn, were featured on “I Like Her Style!” a while back in a “Boutique Spotlight.” The couple returns to tell us what the fashion do’s and don’ts are for next season. Plus they give us the inside scoop on what new pieces they have in their three boutiques. "We're not some faceless corporate entity. I think that's one of the reasons people continue to shop here. We have a strong passion for what we do and that translates into the way we treat our clients. We are expanding throughout the U.S. in areas that want and need unique fashion. So lookout fashionistas we're living our dream," Latisha says. Visit http://www.piecesofbklyn.com/ for addresses of their boutiques in New York (Brooklyn and Harlem) and Maryland (Sliver Springs) – each store is aptly named after its location ie. Pieces of Brooklyn, Harlem and Silver Spring respectively.

Latisha’s Top Five Favorite Fall Trends:

1. Menswear Inspired Designs in Wools, Tweeds & Plaids
2. Toeless Socks
3. Utilitarian Handbags
4. Stirrup Riding Pants and Leggings
5. High-Waist Skinny Jeans/Colored Denims

Latisha’s Top 5 Favorite Women’s Items in Pieces Boutiques:

1. Delphyne Guiraud Down Knitted Vest, $636
2. Gusus Premadonna High Waisted Jeans, $157
3. Pieces Backless Mockneck Dress, $189
4. Pieces Mandarin Collar Princess Sleeve Top, $98
5. Larok Gold Jettsetter Parka Jacket, $400

Photos from one of Pieces Runway Shoes featuring Rsoci of BET’s 106 & Park (middle).

New Yorkers should check out Pieces of Brooklyn’s Runway show taking place this Thursday…

When: Thursday September 20th, 2007
Time: 7pm – 10pm
Where: Pieces of Brooklyn, 671 Vanderbilt Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Contact: 718 857 7211

Revival

Nicole Swasey, owner of Revival, shows off one of her great finds; Shondrella Avery, Nicole Swasey & Tia Mowry at the grand opening.

Man can achieve much in five years but only a woman could collect enough vintage treasures worthy of opening a boutique. Meet Nicole Swasey, a television and film assistant director who recently opened “Revival” in Sherman Oaks, California. “I collected [vintage] clothes for five years and had to rent storage units to keep them all in.” It took a while to find the right location, but after two years Swasey found the perfect place to house her colossal collection which includes classics from Missoni and Gucci. Swasey describes her boutique as a cross between Caribbean chic and a Parisian boudoir – the perfect back drop to showcase one-of-a-kind finds. And exactly what makes a piece worthy of showcasing? Swasey says the best finds are still in great condition (i.e. with lining) and were probably expensive even back in the day. Seventies clothing is also a safe bet. But don’t worry, the clothes at Revival are washed before they hit the shelves. “The boutique doesn’t smell like grandma’s attic!,” Swasey assures. Good to know. So who would love raking through the rails at Revival? “A trendy girl who likes to mix the latest bag or hot jeans with a vintage piece.” Apparently this is where funk and elegance go to collide and nobody should miss out on the action. Visit www.revivalvintagela.com to learn more about the store and Nicole.

Inside Revival where Caribbean and Paris décor meets.

Revival’s store front.

Address:
Revival Vintage
13940 Ventura Boulevard
Sherman Oaks
CA 91423

Store Inquiries: 818 783 8400

Credit: All photos courtesy of Nicole Swasey .

For the Love of Fashion…

Sherlita Patton and Tracy Valentine of P. Valentine.

The front of P. Valentine in Atlanta.

Inside P. Valentine.

Open for less than two years, P. Valentine is already the fashion hot-spot for celebrities such as Keisha Knight-Pulliam, Kim Porter, Usher and Outkast. Founded by Sherlita Patton (Big Boi’s wife) and Tracy Valentine, the boutique offers Atlanta natives the latest in contemporary urban wear, funky accessories and a myriad of high-end denim brands. While you’re there take advantage of services such as their personal shopper, wardrobe consultation and image enhancement – all performed by renowned stylist and image connoisseur, Fadia Kader. There’s nothing like fashion with heart.

Address:
P. Valentine Boutique
572 Edgewood Avenue, #115
Atlanta
GA 30312

Store Inquiries: 404 521 3660

Unsung Designers

Since GirlShop.com is slowly slipping into oblivion, you may be on the search for a new source of untapped designer talent. Let me poke you in the right direction. Head to UnsungDesigners.com for one-off pieces from up-and-coming talent, in fact, Project Runway’s Kara Janx (season 2) started off by selling her clothes via the D.C. based business. The online store has recently taken its idea from the virtual world into the real world. Now open on the first Saturday of every month, fashionista’s in the DC metro area can browse through their rails at the location below. Just look for the inconspicuous pink door in an alley between Felix and New Orleans cafe in Adams Morgan… no seriously!

Address:
Unsung Designers
2412 18th Street NW
Rear Door A

Washington
DC 20009

Store inquiries: 202 2341788

Left to right: Blue Hawaii Dress by Mignonette, $145; Little Black Dress by Mignonette, $225; Tweed Foldover Coat by Gina Michele, $148 all available on www.unsungdesigners.com

Té Casan

Above: Té Casan’s New York Boutique

Shoes: 1. Raised-seam heel, by Manuela Filipovic, $265. 2. Chain-mail heel, by Gaetano Perrone, $725. 3. Grosgrain bow pump, by Gianluca Soldi, $285. 4. Art Deco hells, by Manuela Filipovic, $325. 5. Evening shoe, by Fay.B, $255. 6. Satin bow slingback, by Gianluca Soldi, $275. 7. Stretch bootie, by Zoe Lee, $315. 8. Satin bow mule, by Gianluca Soldi, $250.

Above: Inside Té Casan

What’s 5,500 square feet, has seven fresh designs each week and houses protégés of Alexander McQueen, Versace, Dries Van Noten, and Vivienne Westwood? Té Casan (A Woman's Path), the shoe store of dreams, recently with an ambitious manifesto. Seven young designers from big-name design studios have been recruited to design unique shoes exclusively for the boutique. Each designer is expected to come up with a new design each week! Israeli mogul, Yaron Kopel is the money behind the project and he intends to open 50 more Té Casans over the next five years. Visit them if your in NYC or click here.

Address:
Te Casan
382 West Broadway,
New York,
NY 10012

Store Inquiries: 212 584 8000

Don’t Forget Your Pink Mascara!

Above: 3.1 Phillip Lim Rosette TShirt Dress, $451, www.pinkmascara.com

Left to right: 3.1 Phillp Lim Belted Floral Dress, $429; Sunner Florent Ruffle Dress, $277; Theory Polka Dot Dresses, $325, all available at www.pinkmascara.com

Pink Mascara store in Irvine, CA

I’ve been meaning to spotlight this store for a long time but better late than never! In some respects PinkMascara.com is like many other shopping sites that offer a delectable selection of the latest designer threads and accessories however, what I like most about this site are their continuous sales. Right now they are selling many of their Winter/Fall collections at a 75% mark down! Also browse through their Lookbook to get some inspiration on how to put your own closet pieces together. If you live in the Irvine area in California, check them out in person…

Address:
Pink Mascara

6258 Irvine Blvd,

Irvine,

CA 92620

Store Inquiries: 949 748-3980

On The Cusp…

Inside the new Cusp in Georgetown, D.C.

Georgetown has added another go-to boutique to its repetoire. Cusp opened earlier this month with the fabulous launch party that attracted D.C.’s finest. Fashionistas sipped on cocktails while they browsed through the boutique’s high end offerings. Designers such as Nanette Lapore, Chloe, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Tory Burch are all available at Cusp. Against my better judgement I visited the store and now I have my eye on this Alexis Hudson Clutch ($250)… But hey, I buy now and love it forever! Cusp is also located in California, Virginia and another is underway in Chicago (July, 2007). Untill then read their blog. Updated daily, it keeps you in the fashion loop.

Address:
Cusp
3030 M Street NW
Washington, DC 20007

Store Inquiries: 202 625 0893

Harlem Renaissance… Round II

N Boutique in Harlem, New York
The next generation of artisans have fully revived Harlem’s spirit. Starting in the 1980s during its redevelopment, interest in Harlem was reignited and people moved into the increasingly trendy neighborhood. The N Boutique represents what modern day Harlem is all about and is the destination for New York fashionistas looking for something different. The 4000 square feet store carries designer brands by Nicole Miller and Tracy Reese as well as slightly more affordable lines like Miss Sixty and Diesel. However, this boutique also carries one-of-a-kind pieces from Harlem-based an local designers. Visit www.nharlemnewyork.com for more information.

Address:
N Harlem New York
114 West 116th Street
New York,
NY 10026

Store Inquiries: 212 961 1036

Smart Fitzjerrell

Pieces by Smart Fitzjerrell, Spring/Summer 2007
Don’t underestimate the South. As well as taking the music industry by storm (think Atlanta and New Orleans) they now have their sights set on the fashion industry. Case in point? Designer Mary Kathryn Wells, who hails from Little Rock, Arkansas, recently shared her debut Spring/Summer 2007 collection in New York City and received great reviews. Her style inspirations include music icons Diana Ross and Debbie Harry, so you can see where the punk undertones fused with conventional shapes come from. I personally adore how her items have just enough quirkiness to make you stand out in a crowd, but they don’t scream for attention. Head to www.smartfitzjerrell.com to learn more about “Smart Fitzjerrell” – the name of this inspired new line. Alternatively, you can pay her a visit at her East Village showroom:

Address:
Smart Fitzjerrell
229 East 21st Street, Suite 17
New York, NY 10010

Store Inquiries: 646 649 3203

Poor Little Rich Girl

Racks upon racks of great designer finds!
'Poor Little Rich Girl' has vintage finds including furnishings and stationary.
Buying something fresh off the runway is always satisfying and it gives you those extra few months to wear something unique before all the high street and online stores start producing replicas. However, it’s even more gratifying to find a designer piece on sale and unworn. Consignment stores are a fashionistas chapel, and I have the perfect one for you Boston divas.

Make your way to “Poor Little Rich Girl” situated in the heart of Davis Square, Boston. The owner, Meredith Byam, has a degree in design and has been working in the consignment business for 4 years. The store holds brands by BCBG, Anthropologie, Coach, French Connection and Max Studio. They also stock vintage items so be sure to visit soon as they are currently holding a sale. You may be poor, but that doesn’t mean you have poor taste!

Address:
Poor Little Rich Girl
416 Highland Avenue
Somerville, Boston
MA 02144

Store inquiries: 617 684 0157

Harriet’s Alter Ego...

Harriet’s Alter Ego store front in Brooklyn.
Inside the Harriet’s Alter Ego.
Some of Hekima Hapa's unique designs.

Cast your mind back to 1999. Can you remember what you thought you’d be doing in 2006? I was just starting my Bachelors degree and thought by now I’d have a burgeoning career as a fashion editor for a major magazine! At least Hekima Hapa and Ngozi Odita, owners of hip boutique Harriet’s Alter Ego, are well on their way to becoming the next retail phenomenon. Starting in ‘99 as a small vendor stall in New York City, the edgy and always unique line now resides in Park Slope, a trendy neighboorhood in Brooklyn…

“Inspired by the textiles, detailing, and functionality of indigenous dress, designer Hekima Hapa and chief operating officer Ngozi Odita are bringing cultured couture to the streets of New York.”

Not only can shoppers find original pieces handcrafted in the store’s upstairs loft, they can also visit the beauty bar where customers recieve complimentary make overs and consultations. And while you’re there you can also browse their gallery space which showcases local artists. They even offer sewing workshops! Famous clients include India. Arie, Talib Kweli, M.I.A, Mos Def, BET and Yerba Buena, so head down there and see what all the fuss is about for yourselves.

Address:
Harriet’s Alter Ego
293 Flatbush Avenue
Park Slope Brooklyn
NY 11217

Store Inquiries: 718 783 2074 or info@harrietsalterego.com

Lettie Gooch

Theresa Watts (R), along with her father Logan Watts at the Grand Opening of Lettie Gooch
The pieces they have are so FIERCE!
While roaming the streets on another mundune internship assignment I stumbled across a quaint little boutique called Lettie Gooch situated on nineth street here in D.C. The owner, Theresa Watts, opened the store just this summer, but it's already receiving a lot of attention in the local press - not surprising when you consider the boutique is just a stones-throw away from all of Howard University's hip fashionistas. They carry House of Dereon, Tricia Fix (remember Teedra Moses' dress?) and denim line Salt Works, but as well as the big names they also support local urban designers on the come up. DCists (totally made-up word!) be sure to check them out asap, before those Howard divas clear out the store!

P.S. Keep an eye on their site www.lettiegooch.com, they're about to launch their online boutique ;)

Address:
Lettie Gooch
1911 Ninth Street NW
Washington
DC 20001

Store Inquires: 202 332 4242

I Like Their Style!: Double Stitch

Erika and Monika Simmons of Double Stitch.
“Double Stitch” is the brainchild of twin designers Erika and Monika Simmons. Their fun and contemporary line is known for its colorful crochet apparel and accessories. Founded during Christmas of 2002, Double Stitch quickly grew into the label everyone is talking about. Last year, the duo received the “Rising Star” Award sponsored by Fashion Group International for the 5th Annual “Style Makers and Rule Breakers” Awards Gala. Dedicated followers of the line include Floetry, Leela James, Common and Patti Labelle! Double Stitch's Fall 2006 collection is currently available in Macy's on State Street, Chicago (see below for the address) or you can check out their web site for other boutiques that stock their line.

Address:
Double Stitch
Macy’s State Street
111 North State Street
Chicago
IL 60602

Store Inquiries: 312 781 1000

ShopSCAD

The Georgia based shop's store front.
Inside ShopSCAD's gallery space.
Left to Right: Uncle Bike's Skirt by Maureen Walsh, $98.00; Vintage Helena by Claire Sanchez, $68.00; Silk Pillows by Paige Hathaway Thorn all available at www.shopscadonline.com

It’s been a minute since my last shop review, but I just had to tell you about this cool store called ShopSCAD based in Atlanta. The shop/gallery plays host to over 90 designers and artists who between them provide the store with a unique array of clothing, accessories, home furniture, stationary and fine art. You can browse their online catalogue @ www.shopscadonline.com. Be sure to check out their beauty section which has some great scented candles and body butters! If you live in or near Savannah, GA check them out in person…

Address:
ShopSCAD
340 Bull Street
Savannah
GA 31402

Store Inquires: 912 525 5180

Pieces of Brooklyn...

Latisha and Colin Daring at their store in Brooklyn.
A selection from 'Pieces' new self-designed collection.

Husband-and-wife duo Latisha and Colin Daring own a great little boutique in Brooklyn aptly named Pieces of Brooklyn. The couple initially met while working together at Old Navy, fast-forward seven years and their joint experience along the way, Latisha's as a stylist based in Atlanta and Colin's as a designer in New York, has produced a unique and quaint fashion house for both men and women! They stock items from many of today's trendiest designers including Ya Ya, Catch a Fire and Joe's jeans. They also carry international designers from Canada, Italy and Japan and are highly committed to showcasing local talent. Celebrity clients include Eve, Mya and Foxy Brown, with prices ranging from $50-$300. So if you live in the Brooklyn area or even in Harlem (they have a second store there named, you guessed it Pieces of Harlem) then visit them soon! Shop online @ www.piecesofbklyn.com where you can buy the duo's first collection!

Address:
Pieces of Brooklyn
671 Vanderbilt Ave at Park Place
Brooklyn,
NY 11238

Store Inquiries: 718 857 7211

Sistahs are doing it for themselves!

Carmen Webber and Carmia Marshall of the Sistahs of Harlem
Taken from their Spring 2006, 'Cosmopolitan Goddess' Collection

Founded in 2001 by three 'sistahs' (fashion designer Carmen Webber, stylist Carmia Marshell and model Shawna McBean), the trio would revamp vintage t-shirts and sell them on stalls around NYC. McBean is no longer with the company, but the remaining two have expanded their intial venture into a fully fledged fashion line. According to their website, the Sistahs Of Harlem line, ''is defined by the concept of 'Street Couture' - a mixture of urban street fashion and high Parisian style.'' Celebrity fans include Alicia Keys, Julia Roberts, Erykah Badu, Tweet and Katie Couric. I love their clothes because of the ethnic vibe they add to each piece, be it through their choice of fabrics or the shape/cut of their clothes (see the pics above). Their signature tees and t-shirts are available to buy online @ www.sistahshny.com or if you live in the New York area visit them in person...

Address:
The Sistahs of Harlem
195 Chrystie Street
Suite 200 (2nd Floor)
New York
NY 10002

Store Inquiries: 212 260 8300

Mix It Up!

Intermix are known for their funky stores and up-to-the-minute trends
Atlanta ladies know where it's at! For all their designer needs they head to Intermix, which houses designers such as Chloe, Diane Von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs and Citizens of Humanity, as well as lesser known talent. The store was founded in New York by brothers Khajak and Haro Keledjian, in 1993 and since then they have opened several locations around the U.S. With three locations in New York and Florida, one in D.C., one in Boston, MA and others opening in Las Vegas and Dallas, TX, many more of us will be able to enjoy the edgy clothes they have on offer! If you don't live in any other the cities mentioned you can shop online @ www.intermixonline.com

Address:
Intermix
Phipps Plaza
3500 Peach Tree Road
Atlanta
GA 30326

Store Inquiries: 404 846 8446