Community Corner
Patch Picks: Boutiques
A look at a few local shops sure to put a little spring in any shopper's step.
Box up that big-box retailer, break free of the chain stores and settle into a little do-it-yourself shopping with these five unique boutiques.
FOREIGN FASHION
A rare gem in the suburban landscape, brings the finest in European home décor stateside. Along with its impressive variety of foreign or otherwise uncommon linens and glass, CarefulPeach offers interior design consultations, hosts a "Friends' Night Out" group event and maintains its own wedding registry, among other services. 1024 North Blvd. in Oak Park, (708) 383-3066.
INSPIRED DESIGNS has dubbed itself "a boutique for inspired living," and with its current lineup of high-fashion brand names for women, that might be difficult to argue. Though brands like Kensie, Tulle, Burlapp and Hoss aren't household names to the average shopper, Muse doesn't aim to offer the average shopping experience, but something much greater. 106 N. Marion St. in Oak Park, (708) 948-7052.
FRESH STYLES
Three A's, two N's and an S; fortunately, that isn't today's Word Jumble, but rather one of Oak Park's coolest clothiers, . The fancy boutique is located in the heart of town, steps from the CTA Green Line Oak Park stop and features some of today's most sophisticated styles. With new arrivals hitting the shop early and often, Ananas is poised to be one of the more unpredictable storefronts in all of town. 109 N. Oak Park Ave. in Oak Park, (708) 524-8585.
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HIP LIVING
Some are born to fly. Others, merely, born to look fly. Neither crowd would be missing out after a trip to Fly Bird, seller of "curious items for the happy home, body and mind." But what does that entail? The quirky shop takes pride in the selling of all its goods, particularly the five B's: Babes, Bags, Boy Things and Bath & Body. Other items are available, though the plush mustache with a mustache of its own is hard to pass up. 719 Lake St. in Oak Park, (708) 383-3330.
FOR HIM, HER OR A FURRY FRIEND
From Pumpkin Moon to the senses-satisfying Scratch 'n Sniff, John and Gail Eisner might be considered the king and queen of the sales boutique. After the success of their famed novelty shop, the pair opened up the Scratch 'n Sniff, an adorable place that is both consumer- and pet-friendly. Specializing in everything from doggie beds and water bowls, right on down to those little scented hand soaps, this cozy boutique has plenty in store for pets and pet lovers alike. 120 N. Marion St. in Oak Park, (708) 725-3043.
