Note to Vickie, who emailed me asking about boutiques where her daughter might find casual and dressy outfits suitable for an engagement photo shoot. Not knowing her age or budget I can’t get too specific, but can say when it comes to fine contemporary dressing, there are lots of great boutiques all over town. Besides fabulous fashions, she’s certain to find the sales staff at stores like Faye’s, Stephanie Horne, Gigi of Mequon, Molloy’s, Miss Groove, Valentina, Aversa, Lise & Kato’s, Urban Laundry, Boutique B’lou and Next Door always ready and able to help her look and feel her best. Hope that helps?
Because an antique library table serves as a desk in my home office, it took me years to ditch an equally prized antique desk chair in favor of something much more ergonomic. But once I made the decision, my life changed completely. Seriously. Suddenly, hours spent writing at the computer whizzed by in such comfort that I offer this advice: Be sure to take advantage of the September Relax The Back “Cash For Clunkers” event going on through the end of September. Just bring in your old office chair (which the store will donate to a local charity), have one of their certified Ergonomic Assessment specialists help you select a chair that’s perfect for your needs and, depending on style, you’ll save $100-$300 on your purchase. End of story – and backache. 410 W. Silver Spring Dr., 414-967-2225,relaxtheback.com
In the mood for a scenic destination drive this autumn? How about heading to the Pumkin Hollow Art Ramble (September 19 & 20)? Start at the charming Clayloft Studio (N2411 HWY E. in Palmyra), located on a farm with panoramic views of the southern Kettle Moraine, where you’ll find nationally known folk artist Mary Singleton debuting new puzzles and folk art prints on canvas along with cards and calendars from her celebrated Lang collections; tiles, pottery and clay art by Susan Alexander; miniature clay paintings, lamps and mirrors by Taffnie; oil paintings by Bruce Dorow; cosmic spray can art by Kyle Alexander; willow trellises by Lisa Pasciak; and handmade aromatherapy soaps and scents from Aurora Borealis. Then swing by Heidi’s Hobbies (N2356 Hwy E), to browse antiques and handmade items. And be sure to end the day by picking up one of the delicious pies, baked goodies or box lunches offered up at the Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church (N2895 Country E). For more details call 262-495-8110.
Need an excuse to spend some time with your best buddy, mom or sister? Why not take a spin to Cedarburg for Cedar Chic (September 17 – October 11). This intriguing ‘temporary’ shopping boutique pops up every spring and fall in a big historic barn and presents a full potpourri of interesting stuff that Kris Rick and Laura Harrigan hand pick during jaunts to auctions, flea markets and antique shops across the state. Expect to find home furnishings, accessories, linens and rugs divided into Contemporary Country Chic and Urban Chic styles, a Girly Girl department filled with fashion, jewelry, handbags, scarves and hair accessories and, of course, lots of great vintage finds. An easy drive to a charming town for a fun event with the option to tag on a delish lunch – what’s not to love? N50 W5050 Portland (Lakefield) Rd. Cedarburg, 414-708-1470, cedarchic.com.
On September 16, despite a difficult economic climate and after six decades of welcoming customers to its original landmark store, Harleys: The Store for Men confidently takes a step toward the future, moving four blocks south to a new location in the recently renovated Lakewood Building. Within this luxurious contemporary shopping environment, discriminating men of all ages will find the sophisticated business attire, comfortable sportswear, elegant formal wear, unique accessories and superb customer services the store has earned its rightful reputation for. Oh and be sure to check next week’s column for details of the store’s red carpet Grand Opening Celebration (September 25 & 26). 3565 N. Oakland Ave., 414-332-3404, harleys4men.com.
As summer slips by, A Woman’s Touch offers groups of five or more women a slew of private classes sure to heat up the cold winter months ahead. If you’re looking for a novel way to celebrate a birthday, spice up a bachelorette party or have an informative girlfriend get-together, stop in for a class on the art of dancing (exotic, belly or pole), adding new skills to your sexual repertoire, exploring the world of toys or enhancing your pleasure at any age (including menopause). These experts on all things sexual and sensual are ready to make learning fun. 200 N. Jefferson St., 414-221-0400, awomanstouchonline.com.
CHECK OUT
September 16 – 21 at Neiman Marcus Last Call Store: Tons of new men’s fashions will be arriving from Nieman Marcus stores across the country with prices slashed as much as 65 percent. 6170 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee, IL, 847-855-2036, gurneemillsmall.com.
September 17 at Fred & Luscious: Trade in your gently worn dresses for someone else’s during the Ladies Night Dress Swap. With every purchase of a new dress at either store, shoppers save 50 percent off the price of either a handbag or piece of jewelry. 524 N. Water St., 414-273-3733, fredboutique.com; 522 N. Water, 414-755-8139, shopluscious.com
September 17 – 19 at Salamander: Shop great fall fashions celebrating ageless expressive style during the Anac trunk show sale. 7532 W. State St., 414-259-0970
September 18 – 20 at Goldi: The store pairs plenty of Hobo Handbags with always-popular Merrell footwear during a dual trunk show presentation. 4114 N Oakland Ave., 414-431-4832, goldishoes.com.
September 19 & 20 at the Waukesha County Expo Center: Expect the ‘Tummies to Toddlers’ Expo to deliver lots of maternity, baby and toddler products, exhibits, door prizes, goodie bags and free samples. There will also be fun events like a Diaper Derby, Toddler Trot, fashion show, fitness classes, story time along with a Dad’s Den and nursing/changing area. Admission is free. For more info visit doulaforyou.net.
September 20 & 21 at American Science & Surplus: It’s all about the adventure of discovering just about anything under the sun during the super Tent Show where shoppers will find great deals on literally thousands of items. 6901 W. Oklahoma Ave., 414-541-7777, sciplus.com.
Always at Blush: Send your name, email and birthdate to birthday@blushmilwaukee.comand the beauty boutique will honor you with a free and flawless makeup application during your b-day month. 249 N. Water St., 414-272-1718, blushmilwaukee.com.
