Boston Ski and Tennis

When you think of Boston, you may not think of the fashion right away, but hidden in some of the hottest spots are some of the trendiest boutiques. When looking for unique designers and a style to call all your own, these are the destinations you want to start with. From distinctive decor to expert assistance, it is worth a trip to discover some of the hidden gems Boston has to offer. Union Park is simply beautiful and reminds it's residents of a chic, London haven. Tucked in the heart of the South End, a row of unique boutiques make up this street. If you're looking for a cute gift or sentimental card, Gracie Finn has exactly what you need. Trinkets, exquisite notecards, and small treasures fill this shop. They also carry the famous Aunt Sadie's candles that come in scents like Birthday Cake. Make sure to pop into Flock around the corner for a new outfit or some fabulous jewelry. Bringing a "West Coast" vibe to Boston, Flock features small and large designers you will not find elsewhere like Wildfox, Kim Nations, and Maison Scotch. If you're looking for a modern bohemian style, this boutique has so much to choose from. The dressing room’s warm and eclectic feel might make you want to move in. Charles Street in Beacon Hill is so enchanting you may never leave. There is a boutique on every corner with each one as unique as the next. Moxie is every girls’ paradise featuring the hottest shoes in town. Whether you are searching for the latest "it" wedge or a classic pump, Moxie holds the key. Bags and jewelry also adorn this shop in exciting colors and silhouettes. For those looking for a small beauty boutique experience, The Beauty Mark will fill your makeup kit with personalized looks that they create with you. Brands like DuWop, Julie Hewett, and RevitaLash are part of the boutique’s best sellers. Pamper yourself with a manicure or their award winning eyelash extensions while you're there. The North End may be known for its cuisine but there are plenty of other attractions like Offincina 189. The concept is to create the ultimate Italian shopping experience bringing unique Italian made products right to their boutique. They sell everything from luxurious Italian handbags to BeSpoke bicycles. The idea is to merge the idea of a shop and a museum together. They encourage shoppers to explore and ask any questions while sipping espresso and enjoying the scene. Shake The Tree is truly an adorable, chic boutique featuring local jewelry, loads of designers, novelty for the home, and baby products. They also host monthly cocktail parties for local vendors with snacks from North End restaurants. If you're not even looking for something specific, you will not leave empty handed. Of course, there is Newbury Street, an attraction that brings thousands of tourists every month. With so many shops to choose from, these are two you can't walk by. Crush Boutique is any girl's dream featuring trendy designs from designers like Susana Monaco and Ella Moss. The staff here are like your very own personal stylists and a new outfit is a must before walking out of the Back Bay staple. The boutique offers closet cleansing and private shopping parties for clients as well. Don't forget to try on some of the distinctive jewelry they have! If you're looking for some high end vintage finds, stop at The Closet. The clothes are all gently worn with some fabulous prices. Think Chanel, YSL, and Diane Von Furstenberg. If you pride yourself on staying ahead of trends and keeping exclusive, this will become your new closet. There are also some major handbags adorning the walls and jewelry that will spice up any outfit. They also have a wonderful consignment program. Whether you're a Bostonian or just visiting, these are the spots you'll want to tour. Not only are the shops a sight to see but also the neighborhoods that house them.

There are many reasons to love the South End, from the ornate stoops to the incredible restaurant scene to the abundant dog parks. My personal favorite reason to visit this bustling neighborhood is to peruse the boutiques that line Shawmut Avenue, Tremont Street, and the area in between. Many shops in the neighborhood offer local goods, ranging from homemade t-shirts to local beauty products. Here are a few of my favorite shops in the South End. Follain A recent addition to the South End, Follain is home to a curated collection of natural beauty products, many of which are not found elsewhere in the Boston area. On the corner of Dartmouth Street, Follain is reminiscent of a bookstore or coffee shop - a place that you want to settle in and spend some time. Take a seat at the marble bar while you try on a new blush, viewing the succulents and leafy green plants that surround the shop. Owner Tara Foley is passionate about sharing her commitment to natural skincare and beauty with an individually tailored approach. Tara is invested in her customers and takes the time to get to know their needs so that she can make the best recommendation. My favorite products include the liquid hand and body soap - scents ranging from rosemary citrus to peppermint, and the locally produced Shamanuti charcoal products. Sault One of the most inviting shops along Tremont Street is Sault. The bicycle perched out front beckons you inside to explore the perfectly appointed shelves and tables. An ode to a classic men’s shop, Sault is home to vintage and new clothing, as well as soaps, stationery and neat gifts, like wooden iPhone speakers, terrariums, and colorful bottle openers from Smith and Plank. There’s a strong New England inspiration, from the Pendleton blankets to vintage L.L. Bean apparel. This time of year, we’re especially eager to grab a warm wool sweater at Sault, just in time for a weekend getaway to the country. Flock Mother-daughter duo, Dani McDonald and Lisa Kupsc, are the fashionable team behind Shawmut Avenue’s Flock. Inspired by nature and a bohemian lifestyle, the decor at Flock includes an abundance of feathers and colorful birds. The styles are unique, yet classic ranging from velvet jackets and oversized sweaters to vintage-inspired jewelry and hobo bags. The difficult part is leaving empty-handed. Along with old favorites, there are always new shops popping up around the South End. The unique and colorful boutiques are a perfect way to spend an afternoon, whether you are a local or a visitor to Boston

I personally enjoy the act of shopping almost as much as the satisfaction of finding a new item to purchase. If you’re like me - and enjoy the thrill of the hunt - then you’ll want to explore some of my favorite antique and thrift stores in the Boston area. It’s easy to find over-priced, over-picked shops, so I am constantly on the search for new places that offer great pieces at reasonable prices. Easier said than done! The Cambridge/Somerville area is well-known for its density of shops offering gently-loved items. A favorite of mine is the Cambridge Antique Mart; be sure to have a few hours to roam the four floors of goods. You’ll find jewelry, clothing, furniture, and all sorts of odds and ends. The great thing about a larger shop such as the Cambridge Antique Mart is that there are hundreds of sellers, all with various styles and quality. In the past, I’ve bought a super inexpensive plastic necklace and a few nicer, more expensive pieces of clothing. Just down the road in Inman Square, there is Poor Little Rich Girl, one of Boston’s best consignment shops. The selection can be hit or miss, but on a good day, there are a lot of gems. I love the back room, which features vintage items from beaded boleros to heels and pill box hats. If you continue on into Cambridge, you’ll come across the beloved Oona’s in Harvard Square. Although Oona’s is a tiny space, the items are well sourced and are really beautiful. The price point is definitely higher, but you’ll find some great brand name gems. Plus, the store is really pleasant and well lit. They have a little room devoted to accessories and jewelry, plus a men’s section that has some great blazers and ties. My recommendation for uncovering great thrift finds: just explore. There’s an abundance of great places in Boston, and I often stumble across new finds just by strolling in new-to-me neighborhoods.