Spend an afternoon at Hip Baby Gear and you’ll quickly have the coolest babe on the block. Whether it’s an all-terrain jogger, a high-end high chair, or just a new toy for the tub, there’s plenty to drool over. » 80 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-631-5556, hipbabygear.com.
Reader’s Choice: Hip Baby Gear, 80 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-631-5556, hipbabygear.com
Wrap your baby in an organic baby blanket from Lester Harry’s and let the sweet dreams begin. It’s the perfect shop to get an extraordinary baby gift or dress a future fashionista in designs by some of the best high-end brands from Europe, Japan, and the United States. Searching for that ideal cardigan sweater or two-piece dress for a nice occasion? Look no further than this Marblehead hot spot. » 140 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-631-4343, lesterharrys.com.
Reader’s Choice: Chulamama, 320 Derby St., Salem, 978-741-4600, chulamama.com
Noted Oriental rug expert and owner of family-operated Landry and Arcari, Jerry Arcari is truly the King of Carpet. You can expect his staff to roll out the red carpet and help you select the perfect rug for your home from a great inventory of broadloom carpeting and the most exquisite Orientals. The gorgeous new showroom in Salem presents a tapestry of decorating ideas.
» 63 Flint St., Salem, 978-744-5909, landryandarcari.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Khouri’s Oriental Rugs & Carpeting, 56 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead,781-
639-1441, khouris.com
Who would have thought that shopping for a chandelier or a reading lamp would be so much fun? At Lucía Lighting & Design’s restored mansion you can find just about every form of lighting known to humankind in 12 showrooms spread out over 8,000 square feet. Time it right and you might even see NECN host Billy Costa in the middle of a video shoot. And did we mention the cooking classes? Owner Lucy Dearborn, thanks to her mega-watt personality, has turned light shopping into a new form of entertainment.
» 311 Western Ave., Lynn, 781-595-0026, lucialighting.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Design Lighting & Electric Supplies, Inc. 350 Winthrop Ave., North Andover, 978-794-1650
At EuroStoves, you’ll find everything you need to make a great meal even better. Forget reality TV—become your own “Top Chef” and get inspired by the great selection of appliances, kitchenware, knives, pots, and pans. Check out the calendar of classes and events to see some amazing culinary stuff cooking.
» 45 Enon St., Beverly, 877-232-0007, eurostoves.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Zolotas Kitchen and Bath, 77 Turnpike Rd., Ipswich, 978-356-2239, 515 Lowell St., Peabody, 978-535-4035, zolotaskb.com
Why get lost in a super store when just about everything you need for your at-home project or off-site side project is waiting at Round’s Hardware? Here, you’ll find a huge selection and an incredibly knowledgeable staff that is easy to talk to, especially when it comes to locating those hard-to-find widgets.
» 290 Main St., Stoneham, 781-438-0116, roundshardware.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Moynihan Lumber,
82 River St., Beverly, 978-927-0032, moynihanlumber.com
There are so many things blooming at Wolf Hill Home & Garden that you need to come with a list and/or a pick-up truck. Not only will you find every blossom under the sun, but you’ll also discover everything you need to make your garden grow: soil, mulch, shrubs, trees, veggies, herbs, and more. There are also endless ways to accent and decorate your garden with pottery, statues, and gazebos.
» 60 Turnpike Rd., Ipswich, 978-356-6342,
104 Eastern Ave., Gloucester, 978-281-4480, wolfhillgardencenter.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Hamilton Gardens,
545 Bay Rd., Hamilton,
978-468-0148, hamilton gardensonline.com
Ethan Allen celebrates the beauty of traditional furniture in its gorgeous showrooms and superior design services. Expertly crafted pieces are placed perfectly in rooms that invite you to sit down, lie back, and enjoy the comfort and beauty of a traditional lifestyle. Why would anyone leave home if it looked this good?
» 419 Andover St., North Andover, 978-685-3546, 34 Cambridge St., Burlington, 781-273-2515, ethanallen.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Zimman’s ,
80 Market St., Lynn, 781-598-9432, zimmans.com
West Elm offers chic, sleek, and affordable options for furnishing your home. Here, you can shop for a funky futon, the perfect parsons table, or a modern modular sectional. We love the natural tree-stump table that illuminates West Elm’s unique design spirit.
» 6 Wayside Rd., Burlington, 781-221-5626, westelm.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Ring Leg Furnishings at the Menage Gallery, 134 Main St., Gloucester, 978-283-6030, menage gallery.com
Sure, you can go online and compare the prices of any computer, DVD player, TV, or tech gadget you’re thinking about buying. But what you really need to do is go where you can find a wide selection, great prices, and salespeople who can help you make intelligent choices. Best Buy is not only truly the best price, but the best place to shop for electronics.
» 230 Independence Way, Danvers, 978-774-9494, 1201 Broadway, Saugus, 781-233-3435, bestbuy.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Visiting Geeks,
Merrimac, 978-346-4087, visitinggeeks.com
Textile team Katherine Brown and Susanne James opened their Amesbury showroom, Zimmer360, to give the North Shore the gift of a beautiful and restful night’s sleep. While the rest of the world has to visit zimmer360.com to order sumptuous sheets or a cozy throw blanket, we lucky North Shore folk can enjoy real
time pillow talk in Amesbury.
» 14 Cedar St., Amesbury, 978-388-8360, zimmer360.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Curtain Time
367 Main St., Stoneham, 781-438-8151, curtaintimeonline.com
Perhaps you can’t remember the last time you took a long, luxuriating bath. Maybe you’re one of those poor souls who never takes the time for the tub or thinks baths are for babies or old biddies. Enlighten yourself to the wonders of Soak. Select a slice of soap from the bath bar, light a candle, pamper yourself with some gels and lotions, wrap yourself in a fluffy robe and comfy slippers, and enjoy what the rubber ducky already knows.
» 46 Inn St., Newburyport, 978-465-7625.
Readers’ Choice:
Designer Bath and Salem Plumbing Supply, 97 River St., Beverly, 800-649-2284, designerbath.com
Going crazy looking for everything you need in one sports store? Head over to Dick’s Sporting Goods and relax knowing that if you can’t find it here, it’s not worth buying. Dick’s has the gear and wear for virtually every sport in the universe. Great service and competitive prices make it a home run—and check out the climbing wall once you’re done shopping.
» 96 Commonwealth Ave., Danvers, 978-646-6400, dickssportinggoods.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Al’s Bait & Tackle,
24 Cabot St., Beverly,
978-927-3312
If shoe shopping is your chosen religion, then all your prayers will be answered by a trip to Viola. Owner Lisa Cancelli hand picks the best brands and styles to bring to her adorable boutique. Emilio Pucci, Tory Burch, and Sigerson Morrison join other fancy footwear to step up the style on the North Shore.
» 15 Walnut Rd., South Hamilton, 978-468-1775, violashoe.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Viola, 15 Walnut Rd., South Hamilton, 978-468-1775, violashoe.com
Just because you cherish Bruno Magli oxfords and like to sport your Dolce & Gabbana sneakers does not mean you are the male Carrie Bradshaw. You’re merely a dude who takes reverence in his Happy Feet. Now that Nordstrom has opened at the Northshore Mall, you can hoof it over to the shoe department to find your favorite dress, athletic, and casual sole mates.
» Northshore Mall, 210 Andover St., Peabody, 978-278-7400, shop.nordstrom.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bearskin Neck Leathers, 7 Old Harbor Rd., Rockport, 978-546-2258, bearskinneckleather.com
The Barking Cat may sound like a paradox, but the name reflects owner Jeff McKee’s affinity for both dogs and cats. The shop is all about caring for pets and less about selling products; in fact, customers consistently report that McKee sells them just the essentials. Doggone good service and purrfect prices!
» 266 Essex St., Salem, 978-745-2275, thebarkingcat.us.
Readers’ Choice:
Good Dog! Gallery,
36 Bearskin Neck, Rockport, 978-546-1364, gooddoggallery.com
Do you have a penchant for vinyl records and an ear for music? This cool music store doesn’t miss a beat. Record Exchange has been around for over 25 years and boasts a tremendous selection of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes. You’ll love the old-fashioned feel to the store, where the friendly staff knows a ton about music.
» 256 Washington St., Salem, 978-745-0777.
Readers’ Choice:
Mystery Train Records, 21 Main St., Gloucester, 978-281-8911, mystery trainrecords.com
Owner Merit Tukiainen knows that every woman has different shopping needs and treats her clientele accordingly. Whether you’re a blissful bride-to-be, a radiant mom-to-be, or simply a lovely lady looking for something sexy, you’ll find it at Night & Day. Take advantage of the North Shore’s best bra fitting and you’ll be hooked.
» 63 Park St., Andover, 978-475-0343, 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-463-0343, nightanddaylingerie.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Night & Day, 63 Park St., Andover, 978-475-0343, nightanddaylingerie.com
Beyond the in-store selection, Royal Jewelers’ regular trunk shows featuring brands like Panerai and IWC make it a collector’s destination. You’ll discover the best timepieces and get the Royal treatment.
» 58 Main St., Andover, 978-475-3330, royaljewelers.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Royal Jewelers, 58 Main St., Andover, 978-475-3330, royaljewelers.com
It’s easy to see why couples have been saying “I do” to Long’s Jewelers since 1878. Along with boasting exquisite lines like David Yurman, Marco Bicego, and Scott Kay, Long’s
is the standout diamond destination on the North Shore.
» 60A South Ave., Burlington, 781-272-5400, 35 Cross St., Peabody, 978-531-6900, longsjewelers.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Jambu, 38 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead, 781-639-9600, jambujewelry.com
Do you dream in denim? We do from time to time and the only real solution is a trip to Izzy’s Emporium. Choose from over 60 designer denim brands, all at discounted prices and feel free to try as many on as necessary. With a selection like this, your one favorite pair could very well turn into three, four, or ten.
» 21 Barnard St., Andover, 978-475-0195, izzys-emporium.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Izzy’s Emporium, 21 Barnard St., Andover, 978-475-0194, izzys-emporium.com
If you’re the type of person who adores selecting the perfect gift for any occasion, you need to check out Rose & Dove’s retail location in the old mill district of Lawrence. You’ll have a great time wandering around a store that beams with character and brims with gifts. Gourmet foods, home accents, and estate beer and wine are just the beginning.
» 181 Canal St., Lawrence, 877-689-4141, roseanddove.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Valentine’s,
27 Water St., Newburyport, 978-463-0002, valentinesstores.com
Even if your eyeglasses or contacts need adjustments, you’ll immediately see why customers choose Andover Eye Care. Owner Todd Berberian will chat you up like you’re a longtime friend as he shows you eyewear options that include his own line of specs as well as a great selection of designer frames and sunglasses. Why look anywhere else?
» 77 Main St., Andover, 978-749-7300, andovereye.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Andover Eye Care,
77 Main St., Andover,
978-479-7300, andovereye.com
Look in the closet of the best- dressed men of the North Shore and you’ll find one thing in common: they all shop at Giblees. For over 50 years, Giblees has been outfitting gentlemen in the finest designer clothes, from Alden to Zanella. Its new location, which also features women’s clothes, celebrates the next generation of Giblees’ grandness.
» 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Giblees, 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com
North Shore native fashion designer Gia Ventola takes a leap of fashion faith by bringing cutting-edge couture to Peabody. There’s something for everyone here, from Trash & Luxury tees to way-above-standard staples like trenches, party dresses, and denim. Take a fashion risk and you’ll be in good company; Ventola’s fashions have been donned by divas like Cher, Pink, and Destiny’s Child.
» 9 Sylvan St., Peabody, 978-538-0800, giaventola.com.
Readers’ Choice:
J.Mode, 17 Front St., Salem, 978-744-7007, jmodefashions.com
It’s a pleasant surprise to find a chic boutique celebrating the styles of France and Italy tucked in Old Town Marblehead. French + Italian Owner Aimee Lombardi expresses her passion for these countries by cherry picking unique and casual clothing, accessories, shoes, books, and other treasures.
» 129 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-639-5129, french italian.com.
Readers’ Choice:
First Date Boutique,
28 Chestnut St.,
Andover, 978-247-8999, shopfirstdate.com
Real men eat quiche and wear jeans. They also know to shop at John Farley Clothiers for the finest casual clothes that are both timeless and stylish. Along with a handsome line of custom shirts, smart blazers, and jeans, you’ll find Tommy Bahama, Swiss Army, and many more American and European designers.
» 31 Water St., Newburyport, johnfarleyclothiers.com, 978-462-5401.
Readers’ Choice:
Giblees, 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com
Do you yearn for the days of fashion yesteryear when women wore white gloves, long pearls, and short bobs? Look no more; Modern Millie is an adorable shop in downtown Salem, small in square footage but vast in vintage treasures. Pop in to find great dresses and accessories and good, old-fashioned friendly service.
» 103 Washington St., Salem, 978-745-0231, modernmillieshop.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Modern Millie, 103 Washington St., Salem, 978-745-0231, modern millieshop.com
Just when you thought a good ol’ bookstore was as prevalent as Tyrannosaurus rex, you stroll into Andover Bookstore. It’s hard to believe a place like this still exists. The second oldest book store in America, Andover Bookstore was founded in 1809. Sit by the fireplace and enjoy free coffee and cookies. Browse through a great selection of staff favorites and new books. This bookish haunt boasts a very friendly staff, too.
» 89R Main St., Andover, 978-475-0143, andoverbookstore.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Cornerstone Books, 45 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-744-1831, cornerstonebooks-salem.com
Looking for a new road or mountain bike? Take a spin to the Cycle Loft and check out their huge selection of bikes, gear, and accessories. The 16,000-square-foot facility has virtually everything the bicycle enthusiast needs to keep the wheels turning. An added bonus is that the knowledgeable staff is helpful, but not pushy. We especially love the café on the ground floor where you can sip a coffee and flip through the latest bike magazines.
» 28 Cambridge St., Burlington,
781-272-0870, cycleloft.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Salem Cycle,
72 Washington St.,
Salem, 978-741-2222, salemcycle.com
Just walking into Rouge Cosmetics makes you feel like the America’s Top Model title is within your grasp. Here, you’ll discover the ultimate lines of skin and body care and makeup, plus everything else you need to feel and look lovely. Great customer service, makeup lessons, and Girls’ Night Out Parties add to the allure.
» 322 Derby St., Salem, 978-740-1044, rouge.com.
Readers’ Choice:
The Beauty Cafe,
Wayside Commons,
2 Wayside Rd.,
Burlington, 781-273-1700, thebeautycafe.nu
Are you one of those persnickety purse ladies who only carries the latest and greatest bags? You need to plug Dresscode into your GPS and head straight to bag heaven. There, you’ll behold a collection of trendy brands that are otherwise not found north of Boston.
» 2 Elm Sq., Andover, 978-470-0300, dresscodestyle.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bearskin Neck Leathers, 7 Old Harbor Rd., Rockport, 978-546-2258, bearskinneckleather.com
Looking for a bangle or bauble to jazz up that little black dress? Jambu carries an eclectic collection of designer jewelry that is truly unique. Whether you are looking to sparkle with simple silver hoops or dazzle with the drama of a semi-precious mega stone, you’ll find it at Jambu.
» 38 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead, 781-639-9600, jambujewelry.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Julie Smith Accessories, various locations,
shopjuliesmith.com
Sure, every colorist knows the difference between a fabulous foil and a horrendous highlight, but Joanna Howell Giraud’s mastery of the color spectrum is peerless. Recognized nationally by Allure twice for a spot in the Top Ten and by Town and Country in its “Who’s Who in American Colorists,” Giraud Studio leads a talented team of colorists to paint the town in shades of perfection.
» 169 Bay Rd., South Hamilton, 978-468-3202, giraudsalon.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Runway Salon (Jamie Pratt), 1 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-463-0006, runwaysalon.com
You got the big strappy Jimmy Choo sandals and the little strapless number from Dolce & Gabbana. So it makes sense to find your way to the makeup department at Nordstrom for that luscious lipstick to complete the look. You’ll find all the best brands and a few exclusive lines, plus the most helpful salespeople who all really want you to look your best. Here, it feels less like a large department store and more like a trip to individual beauty boutiques. » 210 Andover St., Northshore Mall, Peabody, 978-278-7400, shop.nordstrom.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Rouge Cosmetics,
322 Derby St., Salem, 978-740-1044, rouge.com
A Signature Facial at M. Lekkakos Salon, Spa & Boutique has the fingerprints of someone who understands beauty at an elevated level. That someone would be Miss Massachusetts 2004 Maria Lekkakos, who adds extra goodies like a complimentary foot, hand, scalp, and décolleté massage to her Signature Facial.
» 154 Main St., Wenham, 978-468-9540, mlekkakos.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Classic Faces Day Spa, 215 Newbury St., Peabody, 978-535-6460, classicfaces.com
There’s nothing like a mani/pedi to make you feel polished. The new Vero Salon and Spa is a great place to enjoy a hand or foot treatment or try one of the fabulous Caribbean therapy sessions that includes exfoliation and a seaweed masque. Whether you enjoy a hot stone pedicure or a French manicure, you will leave feeling perfectly polished and pampered.
» One Central St., Middleton, 978-750-4004, verosalonspa.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Spa Ni’joli, 116 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen,
978-682-9772, nijoli.com
Whether you need a brow shaping or a bikini wax, Interlocks Salon & Day Spa is the place to go to take it all off. With over 50 employees, Interlocks offers a wide array of waxing treatments for every part of your body, including your fingers and toes (and for your man, too)! You’ll love the city vibe, immaculate space, and friendly staff. » 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-465-3010, interlockssalon.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Blush Skincare and Sunless Tanning, 149 South Main St., Bradford, 978-478-8880, blushskincare.com
This place is hot, and not just in temperature. Bikram Yoga Merrimack Valley attracts students in big numbers—especially people who never thought they’d try yoga. The studio is less focused on the spiritual aspect of yoga and more on getting you flexing, bending, and stretching as much as possible (and that includes your internal organs). You’ll find yourself in a perfect pose in no time.
» 43 High St., Suite 310, North Andover, 978-689-9642, bikramyogamv.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bikram Yoga Merrimack Valley, 43 High St., North Andover, 978-689-9642, bikramyogamv.com
When you’re speeding along the superhighway of life, do you really have time to cuff a pair of pants or hem that favorite skirt? Shaban and his team of tailors at Shaban’s Collection not only have time to stitch the perfect hem, but they can also create a custom Egyptian cotton shirt or stunning single-breasted suit.
» 28 Chestnut St., Andover, 978-475-5996, shabanscollection.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Shaban’s Collection, 28 Chesnut St., Andover, 978-475-5996, shabanscollection.com
DogSpa is the ultimate place to pamper your pooch; think Canyon Ranch for canines. We’ve even thought of donning a leash and growing a tail to sample an aromatherapy treatment. The place is immaculate and the cut impeccable. The humans are pretty doggone nice, too, and there’s even a bakery and sampling of hot canine couture and accessories. » 45 Enon St., North Beverly, 978-922-9227, beverlydogspa.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Bark Plaza Doggie Day Spa, 14 Forest Ridge Dr., Rowley, 978-903-0323, barkplazaspa.com
Spots go quickly on Janda Ricci-Munn’s roster to train professional elite and elite amateur athletes. The triathlete, sports trainer, and 2007 IronMan World Championship amateur winner has coached many athletes to victory, while encouraging many others to attain new levels of success. Make no mistake about it, his training regimens are not for the weak of heart, but if you’re up to the challenge, Ricci-Munn will take you to the finish line.
» Gloucester, 978-283-1034, jandariccimunn.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Jeremee Norman, B&S Sport Science LLC, 45 Congress St., Dock 19/20, Salem, 978-828-4166, bnssportscience.com
Frank Corcoran has made the world a better place by training his massage therapists to give the most knot-releasing, pain-freeing, relaxation-inducing massages, far superior to a dose of Percocet. He also has assembled a cadre of caring people who genuinely want you to live your life well. You leave LivingWell somewhere between cloud nine and over the moon.
» 207 Washington St., Salem, 978-740-9355, livingwellsalem.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Spa Ni’joli, 116 Pleasant Valley St., Methuen,
978-682-9772, nijoli.com
Toying with the idea of hiring a house cleaner to tidy up but concerned with the chemicals they use? Put the mop down and call Green Clean. The team uses planet-friendly products and practices eco-friendly house cleaning, plus they are car-free and walk or bike to your home. Add “good for the planet” to the list of reasons you need help around the house. » Salem, 978-744-8698, greencleansalem.com.
Readers’ Choice:
Green Clean, Salem, 978-744-8698, greencleansalem.com
Salem’s historic Hawthorne Hotel brims with an old-fashioned New England charm that is both regal and relaxing. People-watching in the gracious lobby, enjoying a drink nestled near the fireplace at the Tavern, or delighting in a sumptuous brunch at Nathaniel’s are all part of the charm. Just walk out the door to Pickering Wharf or Front Street and sample many of Salem’s bewitching attractions.
» 18 Washington Sq., Salem, 978-744-4080, hawthornehotel.com.
Readers’ Choice:
blue The Inn on the Beach,
20 Fordham Way, Newbury, 978-465-7171, blueinn.com
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