TAKE A PEEK
It’s definitely a dilemma. On the one hand we want the roads we travel to be safe, attractive and well maintained, yet on the other, let’s face it, keeping them that way causes some disruption, especially when construction affects a local shopping district. It’s just human nature to avoid areas where work is being done, but doing so can have a devastating effect on independent business owners, especially in a fragile economic environment. This is why I’m giving a big shout out to Shorewood’s East Capitol Drive. As the renovation process toward a new and lovelier driver and pedestrian experience begins, please remember that business is still going on as usual at great stores like SHOP, The Garden Room, B’Tween Friends and Another Look Consignment. They need shopper support now more than ever. Although things might look kind of chaotic, rest assured with lots of alternative parking available, shopping remains a breeze. Still not convinced? No problemo, simply give SHOP a call, and they’ll pull together a selection of terrific looks in your size, so you can shop at home! 1918 E. Capitol Drive, Shorewood, 414-962-4030, shop53211.com.
While attending the Fashion Revolution runway show, I stopped at the booth of Milwaukee artist Beverly J. Echols for a look at the ethnically inspired, one-of-a kind hats, skirts, handbags and earrings she creates from vintage blue jeans. Putting a whole new twist on expressing yourself with denim, her process includes constructing, stitching and embellishing with beads and shells imported from Africa and South America. Sound interesting? You can see her work at Boutique Revolution or online at beverlyechols.blogspot.com. 5209 W. North Ave., 414-871-0624, thefashionrevolution.com.
In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the introduction of their definitive handcrafted business shoe, from now through May 23, Allen Edmonds is offering a free gift with any purchase of a pair of the elegant Park Avenue Balmoral, which is available in a new walnut grain calfskin color option in addition to the ever-popular black, dark brown and merlot. Guys can choose between either a handy travel shoe care kit or pair of commemorative anniversary shoetrees. Also note that the Mequon outlet store (11043 N. Port Washington Rd.) has recently been revamped into a full line retail store stocked with all styles, sizes and widths of Allen Edmonds shoes, accessories (socks, ties, cufflinks, and personal leather goods) and the new MLB shoe collection. Meanwhile, shoppers can still find great deals on factory seconds at the Brookfield and Port Washington Outlet locations. 18900 W. Bluemound Rd., Brookfield, 262-785-6666; 11043 N. Port Washington Rd., Mequon, 262-241-4266, allenedmonds.com.
As IT Gallery continues to inspire shoppers to achieve a “Big City Look” with unique furnishings and object d’art. Shoppers are treated to a 20 percent discount on one-of–a-kind handmade ceramic garden stools, small tables and rare flower and plant stands featuring beautiful glazes and patterns from the Chinese Ching Dynasty (1850-1920). 1326 N. Jackson St., 414-271-1333, itgallerymilwaukee.com.
At the core of Boutique Larrieux is the understanding that shoppers of size are often frustrated in their search for stylish fashions. Now with the launch of an online shopping site, the store make it even easier to find quality designer pieces for ladies looking to make lovely, impressive entrances day or night. 717 N. Milwaukee St., 414-520-4651, boutiquelarrieux.com.
SAVVY STUFF TO DO
Because she’s always so fresh and trendy, it’s hard to believe Miss Groove celebrates her 10th anniversary on May 20 (6-9 p.m.). Stop in and show her some love, and in return, she’ll treat you to cupcakes, lemonade and some special deals. Should you end up spending $75, she’ll even give you a gift! 1330 E. Brady St., 414-298-9185, missgroove.com.
Since 2003, Arika Ikeler has been offering terrific classes in clothing construction and fashion draping to creative designers interested in learning the basics of technique at her Fashion Ninja School of Sewing and Design. Now through July 31, she makes summer school extra inviting by taking 40 percent off the cost of all June and July classes. Visit fashionninja.com for more info.
With the weather turning increasingly balmy and dogs getting more and more frisky, the time seems just about right to reach for one of the new Fetch Flyers from otomik.com. These ergonomically designed flattened out basketballs, soccer balls, baseballs and footballs ($14 each) not only fit oh so much more comfortably in your pet’s mouth, they’re also phthalate and BPA free. Super easy to catch or carry around, they practically guarantee hours (if you’re up to it) of energy-burning fun.
Looking to spice up your summer grillin’ game? Luckily, even though the Mayfair store’s class is filled to the brim, there’s still time to sign up for the free Better Burger class at Williams Sonoma’s Bayshore location May 22 (9:30-10:30 a.m.) and get inspired to experiment with full flavor using various meats and savory fillings. 5800 N. Bayshore Dr., 414-967-8879, williams-sonoma.com.
If you’ve got some special little ones on your shopping list, you won’t want to miss the one day Summer Sale going on at Florence Eiseman May 23 (10 a.m.-3 p.m.), not when you’ll save 65 percent off retail on children’s designer fashions and get great deals on fabulous fabrics. 342 N. Water St., fifth floor, 800-558-9013, florenceeiseman.com.
CHECK OUT AND SAVE
Through May 24 at juxt: Spring Sale offers 20-40 percent off frames, toys, PJs, robes, slippers, lounge pants, pillows, tableware and vintage items. 1504 Underwood Ave., 414-257-1710, juxthomebaby.com.
Through May 31 at Fred: Save 30 percent on any new pair of jeans (always priced just $48-$68) with every pair you donate to the store’s Denim Drive. 522 N. Water St., 414-270-1009, fredboutique.com.
May 14-20 at Faye’s (Brookfield location): Shop a selection of more than 160 pieces of signature knitwear prized for its unique quality, design, fabric and color during the Missoni Trunk show. 18900 W. Bluemound Rd., 262-432-0070, fayes123.com.
