Five off-the-beaten-path boutiques offer on spot style.
She, Marblehead
Located in a historical storefront in Mar- blehead, She is anything but dated. Owner Tiffany Gaddis has created a trendy shop offering fresh, fun, and hip fashions. Along with popular labels, such as Free People, Gaddis carries unique items from local designers, like the brightly printed peasant tops and pullovers that line the shelves. The shop also boasts a great as- sortment of skinny and hip-hugging jeans For a dressier look, Gaddis sells super sexy ruched cap sleeve dresses in striking hues, as well as scented soaps and fragrances.
Recess, Winchester
Tucked next to a barbershop on the lower level of an old bungalow-style building on Church Street in Winchester, Recess is an oasis of relaxed style. Owner Michelle Bistany had been in the retail business for many years before making the leap into entrepreneurship and opening her own boutique. Bistany creates a welcoming atmosphere—making each visit an enjoyable, casual experience. She has a large following of customers who come in for her fashions from France—whether summery wash-and- wear linen dresses for the beach or more structured pieces for the office. This spring, she is featuring some ultra-trendy 1960s- inspired silhouettes. Bistany wants the shopping experience to be fun. Her “bracelet bar,” stacked with colorful Sisco beaded bangles, allows women to come in and play with color. Bistany also has great sweater and jeans collections for relaxed weekend looks.
Thistle Hill, Rockport
After a long winter’s nap, Rockport is slowly waking up to summer. Behind the pretty pale blue and white Victorian storefront, Thistle Hill boutique owner Kelly Hochsprung sells a mix of classic and playful “carefully edited” clothing for women. For instance, a host of cheery, colorful print dresses by Jude Connally line the racks. Hochsprung also sells washed linen trousers, which, when paired with a fitted tank, makes a summer-ready ensemble. Thistle Hill carries new designers from across the United States, and Hochsprung sources clothing made with sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton and bamboo.
Wardrobe on Park, Andover
With a degree in fashion merchandising management from Johnson & Wales University and a 20-year career buying for high-end boutiques in New England, Julie Centrella, owner of Aine’s Boutique in Reading, has recently opened Wardrobe in Andover. With lines such as Mystree, Italica, and Kerisma, Centrella sells clothing that is timelessly trendy. Centrella also carries home furnishings—creating a one-stop- shopping experience in a boutique setting.
Viola Lovely, Wenham
Viola Lovely has been recently renovated |
This past winter, the posh retail shop Viola Lovely in Wenham underwent a major renovation—enhancing the luxe shopping experience for its customers. Boutique owner Lisa Cancelli carries cutting-edge designers like Giada Forte, Kenzo, Golden Goose, and Veronica Beard. Summer looks at Viola include flowing dresses, funky trousers, and lay- ered tops. The boutique also carries the latest handbags, scarves, and other acces- sories for a complete fashion statement.
Recess 41 Church St. Winchester 617-905-6538 recessboutique.com
She 86 Washington St. Marblehead 781-639-9800 shemarblehead.com
Thistle Hill 8A Main St. Rockport 978-546-8300 thistlehillrockport. blogspot.com
Viola Lovely 148 Main St. Wenham 978-468-1775 violalovely.com
Wardrobe on Park 63 Park St. Andover 978-409-1212 wardrobeonpark.com