While shopping in the Historic Third Ward this weekend I took a twirl around Embelezar and am thrilled to report that, though we’ve lost a few stores in the recent economic meltdown, this home décor boutique stands as a wonderful new addition to the city’s retail tapestry. Definitely living up to its Portuguese name, which means “To embellish and beautify,” shoppers will find a truly sophisticated mix of vintage and artisan made gifts, rugs, textiles, furnishings and accessories presented in well-styled inspiring vignettes that can’t help but evoke serious emotional responses. Simply put, well done, very well done indeed. 241 N. Broadway, 414-224-7644.
With Father’s day just around the corner, finding something fresh and new to present to deserving dads can often be a bit of a task. So shunning the blah and boring route of socks and ties I’m always on the lookout for something new and interesting to suggest. This time around I think I’m onto something with Whiskey Stones. Cut from Vermont soapstone, these sleek gray cubes offer a clever ultra modern alternative to ice as they serve to cool distilled spirits down (like say an exquisite single malt scotch) without ever diluting or interfering in flavor. Available at teroforma.com.
You say your dad’s more of a beer guzzler than a scotch sipper? No problemo, especially since Breeze Thru Wine & Spirits has recently expanded and remodeled its space to offer even more micro brews and import singles to mix and match to create unique, personalized six-packs. 11108 W. Bluemound Road, 414-453-0061.
Wanna make more of a stylish impact on ol’ pop? Well, how about treating your guy to a custom made suit from Bachrach delivered in just two weeks for under $500. The store, with over 150 years experience, specializes in one-on-one consultations. During the meeting measurements are taken and every aspect of the suit – including fabric, buttons, lining, stitching, pockets and lapels – is chosen to truly express individual style. Mayfair Mall, 2500 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa, 414-257-4055, bachrach.com.
Loaded with classic and modern menswear, now through June 20 Harleys makes it oh so simple to offer Dad some seriously cool style at great savings. Whether the goal is to stock up on warm weather essentials, sophisticated business wear, comfortable sportswear, elegant formal wear or updated accessories, you’ll save $60 on any purchase of $200 or more, $100 on any purchase of $500 or more and a whopping $250 on any purchase of $1,000 or more. 4009 N. Oakland Ave., 414-332-3404, harleys4men.com.
Looking to offer dad a little indulgence? Why not go with some grooming products from LUSH, which are made made from yummy, fresh ingredients guaranteed to perk him up. Stuff like the Shave the Planet kit, which contains Cosmetic Lad Moisturizer, Bamboo Soap and a Business Time Massage Bar. Or have him try Shave the Planet Shaving Cream which utilizes organic shea and cupuaca butters to promote skin repair. Or the unique Up You Gets Emotibomb, a zingy and invigorating citrus aromatherapy experience designed to be unleashed in the heat and flow of the shower. Lush Cosmetics at Macy’s 2500 N Mayfair Rd., 414-443-1177, lush.com.
And finally for those wishing to give a nod to the role of motherhood, there’s always Heart Songs to Apron Strings – a lovely and inspiring journal life coach and counselor Carissa Jackson (Ryland Peters & Small) created as a way for moms to pass along their wealth of knowledge, experience and wisdom to their daughters. Once completed, it’s sure to become a treasured keepsake for generations to come offering up a legacy of life and love, family and friendship. With pockets to hold special cards, photographs, keepsakes and other mementos, it’s the perfect gift to celebrate new births, birthdays or to give for no reason at all. Available at Boswell Book Company, 2559 N. Downer Ave., 414- 332-1181
CHECK OUT
June 4 at MP/two:Every Thursday during the Jazz in the Park season the store offers shoppers specials savings like this week’s kick off of 10 percent off any single purchase, 15 percent off any two items and 20 percent off three items or more. 825 N. Jefferson St., 414-272-4672.
June 4 – 7 (Mequon location) and June 6 – 10 (Brookfield location) at Faye’s: Shoppers get a double dose of great trunk shows featuring quality pieces from Scotland’s renowned Johnstons Cashmere and dazzling fashion forward JANIS jewelry by designer Janis Sevitt. 1505 W. Mequon Rd., 262- 241-8386 & 18900 W. Bluemound Rd., 262) 432-0070, fayes123.com.
Beginning June 5 at Crate & Barrel: Save up to 50 percent on select items for the home during a storewide summer sale. 2450 N Mayfair Rd., 414- 258-9500, crateandbarrel.com.
Thru June 20 at Stan’s: Well made, comfy shoes from Ecco, Florsheim, Clarks, Dansko, Trotters and more are marked down up to 50 percent during the store’s semi- annual clearance sale. Brookfield, Glendale and Greenfield locations, stansfootwear.com.
