Shopping in Libertyville

Fourth-generation storeowner Robbyn Ratskoff and her staff of trained stylists outfit clients of all body types in the latest blouses, jeans, and dresses from brands such as Black Halo, Hazel, and Rich & Skinny. Apprenticed under her mother—founder of two local boutiques—Ratskoff leveraged years of retail experience to bring her sharp fashion sense to the people of Buffalo Grove. With an emphasis on high-end, designer denim, the boutique's jean inventory includes styles that hug curves better than an Aston Martin at a roller rink. Meanwhile, racks support the soft heft of light, flowing blouses and warm sweaters from brands including 360 Sweater and Autumn Cashmere.

In 1988, Russ Weldon was on the cutting edge of technology: car phones. He opened up the first location in what would become a chain of Wireless Zone stores with The Car Phone Store. His business took off, but it wasn’t long before cellular phones stole the spotlight from their car-bound brethren. Today, his business has grown into a healthy chain of Wireless Zones, which includes a location in Long Grove, and Russ and his team continue to adapt to technological advances. The staff curates a collection of cell phones, GPS navigation devices, prepaid phones, and accessories that help keep customers in touch when they’re on the go, far away, or far away and stuck in a pit of quicksand.

Belly Dance Maternity equips expecting mothers with an expansive collection of maternity and nursing wear from designer brands such as Michael Stars, ErgoBaby, and Spanx. Plus-size swimsuits, casual dresses, and nursing intimates bedeck pregnant mannequins, showcasing their curves while concealing the watermelons strapped to their stomachs. Postnatal accessories include stylish diaper bags and nursing covers.

For only $30, you get a $60 Groupon to Running Away Multisport, which can be used on all its awesome running shoes. With summer almost here, it's a great time to get a fresh pair for outdoors or as a Father's Day gift that says, "You're out of shape."

At Posh Essentials, comfort is paramount. When replenishing the store's inventory of intimate and lounge apparel, Posh Essentials’ buyers choose soft fabrics and unobtrusive seams. They search out intuitive design and careful tailoring, ensuring that each item—whether a bra, chemise, or bikini—lays against skin without causing discomfort. Though their inventory varies by season, they've procured silk bralets by Zinke and lace thongs by Lise Charmel, a French designer who specializes in snug, sexy nightwear for full-bodied women and violins that have matured into cellos.

At Cargo for Boys, growing boys dress for playtime success in durable, colorful hoodies, polos, shorts, and swimwear from brands such as Wes and Willy. As lads entertain themselves with a host of video games or digital burping contests, parents peruse shelves stocked with masculine outfits of skateboard-emblazoned tops, rugged raglan shirts, and pocketed cargo shorts. The outdoorsy street wear withstands energetic roughhousing with its strong construction, and holds up to sudden growth spurts with its generous cuts.