THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING! CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM OUR BEST OF MILWAUKEE ISSUE. 

Readers’ Choice

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING

Faye’s

If you’re looking for top fashion brands and the latest trends, Faye’s has been the place to go in Milwaukee for over 30 years. The boutique offers dozens of upscale brands that are hard to find elsewhere in town, such as Marie Oliver and Veronica Beard, among many others. 1505 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon; fayes123.com

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

MODA3

For almost two decades, this independent retailer has been helping Milwaukeeans find looks that match their lifestyle. The one-stop style shop sells clothing by 60 different streetwear brands, from fanny packs to Brewers merch to bomber jackets. 320 E. Buffalo St.; moda3.com

BEST HOME GOODS STORE

Sendik’s Home

Sendik’s offers more than just groceries. Its Home wing has a constantly changing array of floral arrangements, Wisconsin-themed decor, drinkware, kitchen supplies and more. And the 7,000-square foot store at the Corners of Brookfield boasts a new high-end furniture department. sendikshome.com

“Simply the best collection of home goods and gifts every time I visit.” – Ellen Trytek

BEST GIFT STORE

Mod Gen

The “modern general store” prides itself on offering a wide variety of products, including, but not at all limited to, stationery, gift cards, towels and mugs. The array of plants is particularly impressive, including a spot where customers can repot their new plants in-store. 211 N. Broadway; modgenmke.com

“Such a fun store to browse in. Staff is very helpful, offering great gift ideas. They take the time to talk to customers to learn more about the gift you are looking for.” – Mona Garcia

BEST ANTIQUES STORE

Antiques on Pierce

It won’t be hard to find your next statement piece here. This multi-vendor extravaganza boasts three floors full of retro furniture, glassware, classic records, sports and beer memorabilia, signs and more. Also check out Art Asia and Eli Rosenblatt, two vendors that specialize in Asian artifacts and antiques. 1512 W. Pierce St.; antiquesonpierce.com

BEST FLORIST

The Flower Lady

After 28 years in business, owner Deb Fowler’s flower creations remain unique, with fresh, customized and occasionally quirky arrangements that set The Flower Lady apart from other florists. In addition to flowers, you’ll find a charming assortment of home goods, jewelry and gifts – and, during the holiday season, ornaments and decorations. 1417 Underwood Ave., Wauwatosa; theflowerlady.com

“The Flower Lady always makes you feel special. They have the best selection and a beautiful store that helps get you in a creative mindset.” – Christina Huelsman

BEST FURNITURE STORE

BILTRITE Furniture – Leather – Mattresses

Wouldn’t it be great to actually sit on a sofa before you buy it? What a novel idea! Do that while supporting a family-owned business that’s been in the community for decades at BILTRITE. The high-quality pieces on offer include Amish-made, small-scale and USA-sourced options. 5430 W. Layton Ave, Greenfield; biltritefurniture.com

“Excellent quality, reliable pricing and service that is locally owned and operated.” – Mary Ellen Rinaldi

BEST SPORTS STORE

Burghardt Sporting Goods

Burghardt has been a family-owned sports store staple for five generations. The seminal spot was even once frequented by Bud Selig. While you can shop for a wide selection of sports equipment, workout clothes and fitness accessories, readers say what really makes the store exceptional is the staff. 15333 W. National Ave., New Berlin; 8625 N. Port Washington Rd., Fox Point; burghardtsportinggoods.com

BEST PET SUPPLY

Bark n’ Scratch Outpost

You’ll come for the selection of high-quality food (including raw options), toys and other supplies, but you’ll return for the helpful and knowledgeable staff. Plus, your online order can be delivered for free if you’re within 11 miles of the store. 5835 W. Bluemound Rd.; milwaukeepetfood.com

“They are amazing. Great customer service and great products.” – Rosemarie Pullins 

Editor Picks

BEST MIDCENTURY MODERN FURNITURE – DELIVERED

Vintage Goods by Sarah Waldo

Apparently, there is a lot of really good mid-century furniture hiding in Northern Wisconsin. Thankfully, Sarah knows where to find it. Be the first to claim it on Instagram (no easy feat – try @sarahwaldostories) and her team will deliver it all the way to its spot inside your Milwaukee (or Chicago) home. 

BEST STREETWEAR POP-UP

Unfinished Legacy 

When Unfinished Legacy owner Brema Brema moved his streetwear brand from Milwaukee to L.A., he knew he’d be making frequent returns. That’s why this summer he had a homecoming of sorts with a two-week pop-up at Trusted Kicks on Water Street. From start to finish, the shop was flooded with people buying T-shirts with Unfinished Legacy’s signature designs – often making use of butterflies, skulls and splashy fonts. The pop-up was such a success, Brema plans to make it an annual thing. unfinishedlegacy.co

BEST VINTAGE COMMUNITY

414Flea

Stepping into 414Flea, it’s immediately obvious that the event is a hub of local creativity, filled with vendors, artists and shoppers who are eager to meet one another and share in this space something that can’t be found online: community. At 20 years old, MaKenzie Huchthausen started 414Flea and its companion magazine in late 2021 to bring together diverse small businesses across Milwaukee, providing a creative and safe space. The markets now feature curated vintage clothing and goods, handmade candles, jewelry, artwork and more from 40-plus vendors. The magazine, sold at the markets, highlights writing, photography, art and recipes from local creatives. Hosted in spaces like the Ivy House and Zócalo Food Park several times a year, the flea is always free to attend and accompanied by live music and food, making it easily an all-afternoon affair. Catch the next two on Sept. 25 and Oct. 16. 414flea.com 

BEST HYPED-UP MUGS

Lolly Lolly Ceramics

These mugs sell out fast – sometimes in just three minutes – and for good reason. Each one is designed and handmade by Milwaukee maker Lalese Stamps. Her signature is wacky, wildly unique handles and a matte black finish – designs that scream cool. Even Trevor Noah loves them! For Women’s History Month, he spotlighted three special-edition mugs with “The Daily Show” logo on them. Stamps’ mugs are available for purchase on her website, but you have to be speedy to get one in your cart. lollylollyceramics.com

Comments

comments