WHO: Audrey Claire Johnson“While day-tripping to Andover with my mom, we fell head over heels in love with Chic Consignment. Their outstanding selection ranges from must-have basics by quality labels to exquisite statement pieces. The best part is that everything is priced to have and to hold immediately!”
On a recent mission to find the perfect pendant necklace to match a new party dress, we found just that at Lyn Evans Potpourri designs in Andover, plus much—perhaps too much—more. The Main Street shop is filled with contemporary accessories, including jewelry (Alexis Bittar, Alex and Ani) and bags (Longchamp, Big Buddha), along with scarves, sunnies, and shoes, by high-end contemporary designers from Nicole Miller to Rebecca Minkoff. Lyn Evans Potpourri Designs, 9 Main St., Andover, 978-269-0266, lynevans.com
Readers’ Choice: Every Occasion Boutique, Salem. Every Occasion Boutique, 96 Wharf St., Salem, 978-594-4560, everyoccasionboutique.com
If you couldn’t tell from the masses of women—from high schoolers to soccer moms—clad from head to toe in gear bearing the company’s curvy logo, let us be the ones to tell you that Lululemon in Burlington is the place to get your workout gear. The brand’s cropped, curve-hugging pants are famous for being figure flattering, and everything—from bras to tanks to hoodies—comes in a multitude of colors and pretty patterns. Lululemon, 75 Middlesex Tpike., Burlington, 781-221-0179, lululemon.com
Readers’ Choice: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Peabody. Dick’s Sporting Goods, 96 Commonwealth Ave., Danvers, 978-646-6400, dickssportinggoods.com
Andrew Spindler Antiques in Essex is the place to be for antique collectors looking for a personal and eclectic selection of items. The shop offers a unique inventory of furniture, paintings, decorations, and other works of art from the 16th through the 20th centuries. Owner Andrew Spindler-Roesle is a lifelong collector who has earned a number of accolades in his industry. His experience is reflected in his shop’s impeccable collection. Andrew Spindler Antiques, 163 Main St., Essex, 978-768-6045, spindlerantiques.com
Readers’ Choice: Mill 77, Amesbury. Mill 77, 77 Elm St., Amesbury, 978-792-5046, mill77.com
Walking into A.C. Moore in Danvers can be a little daunting, so bring a shopping list or ask a friendly staff member for help finding the right materials for whatever that big project may be. They’ve got everything from fine art essentials to needlecraft tools. The homemaker, the professional artist, and the last-minute student shopper will all find what they need (and more!) at this all-inclusive arts and crafts supply store. A.C. Moore, 100 Independence Way, #11, Danvers, 978-750-0420, acmoore.com
Readers’ Choice: Metamorphosis Art & Design, Andover. Metamorphosis Art &Design, 10 Essex St., Andover, 978-470-4900, metamorphosisartanddesign.com
For handbag shopping, there’s no place quite like Two Girls Shop in Salem, owned by friends Emily Edelman and Pia Schoeck. At Two Girls, you’ll find everything from the affordable and functional (totable coolers for the beach!) to splurge-worthy arm candy—think totes made from repurposed canvas army tents, nautical-themed beach bags that hold up against sand and sun, and sleek, sophisticated colored-leather options from the likes of Hobo. It’s a must see, shop-for-yourself experience not to be missed. Two Girls Shop, 320 Derby St., Salem, 978-744-5191
Readers’ Choice: Two Girls Shop, Salem
For smelling sweet and feeling fine, the place to go is Plum Island Soap Co. Sure, they have nearly 20 kinds of soap—all as wonderful as their names suggest. But beyond bars, they offer oils, body butters, facial scrubs, and lip lotions, and, of course, their ever-popular “Man Can,” which is designed to get guys jazzed about bath time, too. It truly is a magical kingdom for the senses. Plum Island Soap Company, 205 Northern Blvd., Newburyport, 978-465-0238, plumislandsoap.com
Readers’ Choice: Soak, Newburyport. Soak, 7 State St., Newburyport, 978-465-7625, soaknbpt.com
Interlocks Salon & Day Spa in downtown Newburyport offers cosmetics and skincare products by some of the biggest and best-known names out there—think Decléor, StriVectin, and The Art of Shaving—all displayed beautifully in its lobby apothecary. Interlocks’s well-trained staff is always at the ready to show clients how to get the longest-lasting effects from their new beauty buys. Interlocks, 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, 978-465-3010, interlockssalon.com
Readers’ Choice: Beauty Cafe, Melrose. Beauty Café, 515 Main St., Melrose, 781-665-6650, thebeautycafe.nu
When looking for a new bike, Seaside Cycle in Manchester-by-the-Sea is surely the key. For over 35 years, the shop has been providing the highest quality bikes and accessories, and they’ll even let you test ride any bike before buying. Seaside Cycle’s staff comprises experienced cyclists who are only too happy to help answer your every last question before sending you out the door on a shiny new ride. Seaside Cycle, 23 Elm St., Manchester-by-the-Sea, 978-526-1200, seasidecycle.com
Readers’ Choice: Urbane Cyclist, Salem. Urbane Cyclist, 144 Washington St., Salem, 978-594-5174, theurbanecyclist.com
Everyone is on the same page about this one—Jabberwocky Bookshop in Newburyport is the best for book browsing and buying. Since 1972, Susan Little has provided patrons with the latest and the greatest in the genres of fiction, non-fiction, literature, poetry, and reference. You name the title and she’s got it—or she at least knows where to find it. Summer reading lists for students, senior citizen discounts, and author readings are just a few of the ways in which Little keeps her independent bookstore appealing in this Amazonian world. Jabberwocky Bookshop, 50 Water St., #22, Newburyport, 978-465-9359, jabberwockybookshop.com
Readers’ Choice: Jabberwocky Bookshop, Newburyport
From veils and garters to reception dresses and, of course, gorgeous gowns, The Bridal Center, a conglomeration of bridal businesses under one roof on Main Street in Andover, is the North Shore’s one-stop shop for your every wedding need. Housed in an elegantly renovated three-story building, The Bridal Center even boasts resources for tuxedo rentals, luxury transportation, photography, and entertainment. Here, you’ll find everything you need before saying “I do.” The Bridal Center, 1 Main St., Andover, 978-474-0222 thebridalcenter.com
Readers’ Choice: Bella Sera Bridal, Danvers. Bella Sera Bridal, 84 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4077, bellaserabride.com
Whether it is easy weekend style or business-casual attire, John Farley Clothiers in Newburyport has a collection and atmosphere like no other. Tommy Bahama, Joseph Abboud, and Hart Schaffner & Marx are just a few of the many brands that are offered in the shop. The friendly and always helpful staff has an eye to make any guy feel polished and confident. John Farley Clothiers, 31 Water St., Newburyport, 978-462-5401, johnfarleyclothiers.com
Readers’ Choice: John Farley Clothiers, Newburyport
With an extensive inventory of designer duds, Giblees Menswear in Davners boasts a loyal following by the North Shore’s most notable men. The shop carries pieces by top designers, like Brioni, Canali, and Calvin Klein that you’d otherwise have to go to Boston to get. Giblees Menswear, 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-774-4080, giblees.com
Readers’ Choice: John Farley Clothiers, Newburyport. John Farley Clothiers, 31 Water St., Newburyport, 978-462-5401, johnfarleyclothiers.com
Style yourself from head to toe with big-city taste at Madam Hadem, located in Marblehead. Serving as a designer consignment boutique, the shop meshes a shopaholic’s high-end style with the love of a great bargain. Madam Hadem offers designers such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Christian Dior. Madam Hadem, 160 Washington St., Marblehead, 781-639-7798, madamhadem.com
Readers’ Choice:Renew Revolution, Newburyport. ReNew Revolution, 8 Market Square, Newburyport, 978-465-7800, renewrevolution.com
Newburyport’s French Lessons is a treasure trove of on-trend, contemporary clothing, with items by Hudson, Nanette Lepore, and Citizens of Humanity. Owner Gilda Tunney lives in the South of France, where she gets most of her inspiration, and she knows the power of fashion all too well. French Lessons leaves every shopper feeling chic, feminine, and ahead of the trends. French Lessons, 18 State St., Newburyport, 978-499-0499, frenchlessons-boutique.com
Readers’ Choice: Smitten, Newburyport. Smitten, 23 Inn St., Newburyport, 978-499-7912, sosmitten.net
Lorraine Roy in Danvers is a local leader when it comes to elegant outfits for special occasions. With a seasoned staff and designer dresses, the shop has been helping women look fabulous for over half a century. Owner Jeanne Hennessey offers personalized service, helping clients pick the perfect dress for every occasion. Lorraine Roy, 30 Maple St., Danvers, 978-774-0825, lorraineroy.com
Readers’ Choice: J. Mode, Salem. J. Mode, 17 Front St., Salem, 978-744-7007, jmodefashions.com
Shopping for specs at Andover Eye Care is like perusing fabulous frames in a good friend’s living room. Although the intimate shop is stocked with a carefully curated selection of designer frames, we love that patrons can pick up a pair designed by its owner, optician-turned-designer Todd Berberian. Berberian’s line, called Todd Rogers, comprises chic plastic frames in a range of shapes, from rectangle to round. Berberian will see to it himself that you go home sporting a pair of frames that look—and fit—like they were made for you. Andover Eye Care, 77 Main St., #B, Andover, 978-749-7300, andovereye.com
Readers’ Choice: Andover Eye Care, Andover
You can always find a fresh selection of furnishings at Red Bird Trading Company in Newburyport’s Tannery Marketplace. From sleek wood-framed beds and headboards to weathered-looking benches with strategically chipped paint, the shop’s pieces easily come together in styles that range from shabby chic to contemporary clean. Red Bird Trading Company, Tannery Marketplace 50 Water St., Newburyport, 978-462-5566, tannerymarketplace.com/2010/10/red-bird-trading-company
Readers’ Choice: Urban Elements, Salem. Urban Elements, 83 Washington St., Salem, 978-666-4408; 20 Pleasant St., Newburyport, 978-462-3333, urbanelementshome.com
Hamilton Gardens, Inc. has been offering the finest floral arrangements and gifts for every occasion since 1933. From elegant roses to exotic bouquets, shop staffers take great care to match customers with exactly what they are looking for in a bloom. The shop opens all of your senses, greeting you with its sweet fragrance and calming sounds of tranquil fountains. Hamilton Gardens, Inc., 545 Bay Rd., Hamilton, 978-468-0148, hamiltongardens.net
Readers’ Choice: Wolf Hill Home and Garden, Ipswich. Wolf Hill Home and Garden, 60 Turnpike Rd., Ipswich, 978-356-6342, wolfhillgardencenter.com
The essence of boutique shopping can be summed up in two words: Rose & Dove. Featuring lines like JPK Paris, Lady Primrose, and Alex & Ani, it is simply the obvious choice when looking for scents, jewelry, and bags. For bridal gifts, the shop is a Mariposa bonanza! Hosting signings with designer Michael Updike is just one of the ways in which Dove & Rose earns its solid reputation. Shopping for oneself is usually an easy, pleasurable thing, but that corporate gift hunting is more often a chore. But because owner Kellee Twadelle makes a special effort to satisfy every shop-goer’s needs, buying for the boss is actually fun. With her specialty gift baskets, gorgeous wrapping jobs, and pleasing store arrangements, Twadelle has turned a little store in North Andover into a palatial playground for gift seekers. Rose & Dove Specialty Gift Shop, 579 Chickering Road North Andover, 978-689-4141, roseanddove.com
Readers’ Choice: MIMI Gift Gallery, 19 Central Street Manchester, 978-525-0385, mimigiftgallery.com
*We regret that the Gifts category was omitted from our print edition, as well as from our website when BONS 2012 went live on Tuesday. Congratulations to our very deserving Editors’ and Readers’ Choice winners! Tell us what you think about them!
Since 1960, Dawson’s Hardware in Beverly has been one of the area’s most successful hardware suppliers. For more than 50 years, owner and founder Bob Dawson has stayed true to the establishment’s original roots as a neighborhood hardware store. At Dawson’s, you will always find reliable customer service and help with any DIY needs. Dawson’s Hardware, 50 Enon St., Beverly, 978-927-1320, dawsonstruevalue.com
Readers’ Choice: Winer Bros. Ace Hardware, Salem. Winer Bros. Ace Hardware, 86 Lafayette St., Salem, 978-744-0780, acehardware.com
Every time we walk into Urban Elements in Salem (they’re in Newburyport, too), we want nearly everything we see. UE seamlessly blends the chic with the cheeky, from clean-lined furnishings to quirky accessories (we’re lusting over a set of owl-embroidered pillows). Frequent reverse sticker shock (it’s all so reasonably priced!) means constant danger of overindulging. Urban Elements, 83 Washington St., Salem, 978-666-4408; 20 Pleasant St., Newburyport, 978-462-3333, urbanelementshome.com
Readers’ Choice: Nightingale Arts of Salem, Salem. Nightingale Arts of Salem, 124 Boston St., Salem, 978-744-2606, nightingalearts.com
Nestled in downtown Andover, Izzy’s Emporium has been a premier destination for denim since 1950. Alongside expert personal shoppers, customers can find the latest styles complete with onsite tailoring and a “denim doctor” who’ll save your favorite pair. Izzy’s prides itself on stocking hundreds of styles, fits, and sizes, meaning you can always find the perfect pair. Izzy’s Emporium, 21 Barnard St., Andover, 978-475-0194, shopizzys.com
Readers’ Choice: Izzy’s Emporium, Andover
Become a part of the royal family with Royal Jewelers, located in Andover. Founded in 1948, the family-run business is the destination for gem seekers on the North Shore. With designers such as David Yurman, Norman Silverman, and Beaudry, you are sure to leave Royal feeling like a prince or princess. Royal Jewelers, 58 Main St., Andover, 978-475-3330, royaljewelers.com
Readers’ Choice: Tesoro Boston, Middleton. Tesoro Boston, 149H S. Main St., Middleton, 978-539-8720, tesoroboston.com
Dress your kitchen in fun and unique items from Souffles, located in the heart of downtown Newburyport. Owner Gina DiGiovanni stocks items with color and tasteful design that will surely bring your kitchen to life. Be sure to sample the coffee and tasty treats during your visit to Souffles. Souffles, 14 Market Square, Newburyport, 978-465-1523, souffles.com
Readers’ Choice: Pickle Pot, Salem. Pickle Pot, 75 Wharf St., Salem, 978-744-6678, picklepot.com
It may be housed in a converted, 8,000-square-foot former funeral home, but there’s nothing dark about Lucia Lighting & Design in Lynn. To the contrary, Lucia is a breathtaking showplace for myriad types of lights, from table lamps and sconces to chandeliers and outdoor fixtures. In addition to its gorgeous stock, Lucia employs a team of Residential Lighting Designers to help clients get their desired look and lighting control plan. Lucia Lighting & Design, 311 Western Ave., Lynn, 781-595-0026, lucialighting.com
Readers’ Choice: Lucia Lighting & Design, Lynn
Well-made lingerie is the foundation of a beautiful outfit, and The Ivory Corset in Andover’s Bridal Center has all the right pieces to help get you started. The shop offers bras, panties, thongs, shapewear, and other under-essentials, which knowledgabel staff can help you decipher if you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed. The Ivory Corset, 1 Main St., 3rd Floor, Andover, 978-409-1941, ivorycorset.com
Readers’ Choice: The Ivory Corset, Andover
Rouge Cosmetics in Salem offers top makeup brands in an adorable, girly space replete with pops of pink. From trendy lipstick shades to flattering cheek stains, Rouge carries a strategically edited inventory of products by brands from Nars to Paula Dorf that you’ll want to buy in bulk. Plus, the shop’s staff are some of the most deft makeup artists around. Rouge Cosmetics, 322 Derby St., Salem, 978-740-1044, rouge.com
Readers’ Choice: Beauty Café, Melrose. Beauty Café, 515 Main St., Melrose, 781-665-6650, thebeautycafe.nu
Where music education is concerned, Marblehead-Salem Schools of Music is the number-one choice. By carefully matching students with instructors and considering their learning styles, interests, goals, and experience, the school hones in on just what makes for a unique and powerful journey through the world of music. Marblehead-Salem Schools of Music, 13 Essex St., Marblehead; 3 Pleasant St., Salem, 781-639-7070, marbleheadmusic.com
Readers’ Choice: Marblehead-Salem Schools of Music, Marblehead
Four-legged family members were meant to be spoiled, and Boston Pets in Peabody offers a huge variety of products and services to ensure that your pet is nothing less than pampered. From a basic bath to a full spa treatment, your furry friend will feel like best in show after a visit to this shop. A pickup and dropoff service via the “doggie limo” helps accommodate busy schedules. Boston Pets, 242 Andover St., Peabody, 978-532-7387, bostonpets.com
Readers’ Choice: Marblehead Pet Supply, Marblehead. Marblehead Pet Supply, 30 Bessom St., #4, Marblehead, 781-631-3500, marbleheadpet.com
If there’s one word that perfectly describes Landry & Arcari in Salem, it’s authentic. Not only do L&A’s owners and staff travel the globe in search of special wares to bring home to their stores, but they also take great interest in educating consumers; L&A offers several lectures each year at historical sites, museums, and in its own stores. Landry & Arcari, 63 Flint St., Salem, 978-744-5909, landryandarcari.com
Readers’ Choice: Landry & Arcari, Salem
Whether it’s leather loafers or sporty flip-flops you seek, Nordstrom in Peabody will more than likely have the perfect pair. Designer names and a huge selection are what put this distinct department store above all others. Nordstrom, North Shore Mall, Peabody, 978-278-7400, shop.nordstrom.com
Readers’ Choice: Nordstrom, Peabody
The North Shore is rife with beautiful spots in which to enjoy the outdoors, and Amesbury Skate & Sport Shop is chock-full of just the stuff you’ll need for your next adventure. The shop carries sporting equipment, clothing, and accessories made by a rambling list of top-name brands (Brine, Diadora, Easton, and Wilson, to name a few) in a hulking 4,000-square-foot retail space. That Amesbury Skate & Sport also operates a full-service bike shop (they sell bikes by Red-Line, Raleigh, and Trek) means you won’t need (or want) to go anywhere else to prep for your active endeavors. (Become a member of the shop’s online A-Nation to receive advance notice of sales and exclusive specials.) Amesbury Skate & Sport Shop, 77 Macy St., #3, Amesbury, 978-388-4544, amesburysport.com
Readers’ Choice: Amesbury Skate and Sport, Amesbury
The watch collection at Royal Jewelers in Andover is a Who’s Who in makers of luxury timepieces. Cartier, Chopard, Piaget, and Rolex are a few all-star standouts, but the list hardly stops there. Almost as legendary as the brands themselves is Royal’s famously attentive and in-depth client service. Royal Jewelers, 58 Main St., Andover, 978-475-3330, royaljewelers.com
Readers’ Choice: Royal Jewelers, Andover
When it comes to learning about the best wines and pairings, Wine Sense in Andover is an oenophile’s delight. Owner and wine director Samanta Ettore and her staff know what’s what, and they’re more than willing to provide their expertise—Ettore even posts newsletter-style updates to the shop’s website, keeping her clients abreast of Wine Sense specials, store tastings, and other local wine-related happenings. Wine Sense, 166 N. Main St., Andover, 978-749-9464, wine-sense.net
Readers’ Choice: Wine Sense, Andover
From crystal-laden stilletos to classic pumps, Nordstrom has over 5,000 shoes for the choosing. Well-heeled women will find designer names from the pinnacles of high fashion—Manolo, Dolce & Gabbana, and Kate Spade—the sight of which make shoe shopping absolutely divine. Nordstrom, North Shore Mall, Peabody, 978-278-7400, shop.nordstrom.com
Readers’ Choice: Nordstrom, Peabody
Impress your guests with a great variety of beer from Andover Liquors. The shop offers wine consultations and catering, and staff will send out special orders for hard-to-find beverages. If you’re picky about beers or just don’t know what you like, don’t worry; beers from over 20 countries are featured here, so you’re bound to find the perfect brew. Andover Liquors, 209 North Main St., Andover, 978-470-0500, andoverliquors.com
Readers’ Choice: Bogies Beer & Wine, Beverly. Bogie’s Beer and Wine, 246 Elliot St., Beverly, 978-524-7877, bogiesbeer.com
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