Shopping in Niagara Falls

Owner Crista Botticello was only 19 when she opened Ooo La La’s doors to the East Aurora community, but her fashion-forward tastes suggest an intimate acquaintance with trends in America and abroad. That unique sensibility is reflected in her boutique’s selection of casual apparel and formalwear, which includes dresses, jackets, jewelry, and handbags designed by emerging locals or renowned artisans from New York and Los Angeles. Nestled in an idyllic brick storefront, the spacious store often hosts special events, such as fashion shows that benefit local charities or show off the cummerbund’s underappreciated versatility.

At Tangled Yoga & Activewear, balanced instructors help each individual student improve his or her practice in ongoing weekly yoga and Pilates classes. In addition, the studio outfits participants with activewear and accessories crafted in North America and designed to comfortably accommodate yoga poses or Greek-statue poses. Instructors Kathy McWilliam and Jen Newby guides students through invigorating classes that strengthen physical muscles while also toning mental and emotional biceps.

For more than 10 years, Buffalo Fleece & Outerwear has specialized in both utility and fashion, monitoring runway trends as well as the latest innovations of outerwear brands. Raincoats and activewear designed by companies such as Patagonia and Dansko keep bodies comfortable indoors or out, and SmartWool socks protect hikers' and floor keyboardists' feet from blisters. Alongside outdoor wear, the boutique also stocks business attire and formalwear for adults and playwear for adventuresome kids.

Brandon Tallau and Samantha Tagliarino founded OffBeat Emporium to give new character to vintage furniture pieces that would otherwise be taking up space in a landfill. Tallau and Tagliarino along with their crew of artists, restore furniture and home accessories back to the original quality or transform it into an offbeat piece with bold colors and patterns.