Shopping in Brenham

A flashy billboard greets guests as soon as they step foot on the paved stone pathway that leads up to Tickle Boutique, preparing them for an eclectic interior outfitted with baroque mirrors and other vintage furnishings. The contrasting elements in the decor reflect the store’s dual roles: it is at once a chic clothing boutique and a relaxing spa.

Whether stopping in to peruse the racks of dresses or to indulge in a mani-pedi, facial wax, or teeth whitening, guests can’t help but notice the shimmering kaleidoscope of styles that characterizes the boutique. Though leather armchairs invite customers to sit back and close their eyes during a relaxing pedicure, the damask-printed mannequins posing nearby demand attention in their striped bandeau tops. Long strings of beads cascade down display racks, creating the impression of a waterfall to match the rainbow of scarves on the wall.

The swimwear experts at East Side Bikinis know that there are two key elements to rocking a bikini: a flattering cut and vibrant fabric. In their swimwear workshop, they cut bikinis to order, turning over 200 bright, patterned fabrics into custom tops and bottoms. Styles range from sultry string bikinis to demure bandeau tops to boyshorts. Clients can even design their own bikinis, bring in their favorite old swimsuit to have another made in a fresh fabric, or emblazon a suit with rhinestones or handy fish lures. Before it even opened, the fashion-forward shop earned a feature and photo spread on Thrillist.