From sophisticated chic to funky and unique, this boutique proves that going Green is possible for every fashionista. The Alter Eco specializes in offering affordable Eco-friendly options without compromising quality or your sense of style. They are dedicated to promoting sustainable living by reusing high-quality fashionable inventory that includes vintage and designer items. The Alter Eco also focuses on providing a clean, well-organized, and modern appearance so it doesn’t feel like you are walking into a jammed department or second-hand store. As it grows, the boutique will start selling a variety of fashionable, eco-friendly merchandise, including recycled purses made from juice boxes and license plates, and clothing made from organic cotton.

Artwear is a small, light-filled peaceful place that is pleasant to visit. Customers love the personal attention they receive while they are there, and the boutique strongly believes there is no such thing as the perfect body, and that every woman can feel beautiful. The typical Artwear customer is not looking for trendy or youthful-looking clothing but still wants to be stylish, yet comfortable. Artwear chooses clothing and accessories that are well-made from interesting fabrics and with artistic detail. This boutique is successful because they work hard to provide a beautiful collection of clothing and accessories combined with exceptional customer service. There is a studio component to Artwear, some of the clothing is designed and made right there and is unique to the store. There sometimes is a misconception that Artwear is a gallery with gallery prices. Artwear started life that way, but has transitioned over time to a more accessible boutique.

Zia Clothing Outlet is easily the best kept secret in the Boston area! They offer huge savings up to 75%, on current season, genuine designer and boutique fashion merchandise. They are a true outlet with no false pricing or private labels, with special relationships with designers and manufacturers. Goods are delivered weekly as well, so there’s always something new. A typical customer is a woman who loves style, and just as importantly, loves to save money! Often, three generations will enjoy their experience at Zia Clothing Outlet as there is an eclectic array of merchandise for the daughter, mom and grandmother who all leave with a purchase just right for them. In addition, Zia hosts monthly wine and cheese parties that often showcase local artists, as well as donating a portion of the proceeds to health research and charitable organizations.

This boutique is geared toward the average woman who wants to look just as good as a celebrity. Right now, Nanette Lepore has a worldwide publicity campaign focused on editorial placements and celebrity dressing. They have dressed everyone from the girls on the cast of “Gossip Girl” to Eva Longoria, America Ferrara, and Kerry Washington. Nanette Lepore offers the latest styles in a fun shopping environment. Deliveries come in each month, so there is always something new. Their average customer is someone who is sexy, confident, smart, and who loves gorgeous, feminine clothes, for any occasion. Customers also enjoy the beautiful lay out of the store and great customer service. The brand is also launching their first national ad campaign in September 2008. What most shoppers don’t know is that Nanette Lepore is an American designer from Youngstown, Ohio.

Helena’s is a bit of a “hidden gem” in the Arlington area with most of their customers coming from the ever-loyal Arlington neighborhood and beyond into the Somerville, Lexington, Belmont, Winchester areas. Helena’s mission is to offer a carefully selected and unique collection of clothing, shoes and accessories to their loyal clientele in a welcoming space. Helena’s also has a maternity section that echoes the fashion sensibilities of the regular apparel. They offer their customers easy apparel choices before pregnancy, during pregnancy and after. A typical customer is an independent, active, 28-50 year old woman, looking for colorful interesting pieces of clothing and accessories. The owner goes with her extinct and buys things she likes, and this has served her very well. She also has a manager/ stylist, Jessica, who has a great eye for accessories. They love to help people find the pieces that fit their bodies, styles, and lifestyle. It is truly satisfying for them to have a customer leave the store excited to wear a new outfit.

Sonia Rykiel’s mission is to bring French fashion and a 'joie de vivre' to the Boston area. What most people don’t know, is that Sonia Rykiel is extremely well known with over 50 boutiques worldwide, and over 20 in France alone. Fortunately for local fashionistas, there are only two Sonia Rykiel boutiques in the US, and we are lucky enough to have one right here in Boston. In a small intimate setting, they offer accessories, fragrances, handbags, bijoux and suiting, in addition to their legendary knitwear. They have a complete array of clients ranging from the younger market who is excited by their sexy dresses and funky handbags, to other clients who have been devoted to the brand since its birth 40 years ago. Jerry Hall, Elizabeth Jagger, Kate Hudson and Jada Pinkett Smith are just a few of the celebrities who have shopped there recently. They have also dressed celebrities like Chloe Sevigny, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Rihanna for special events.

Eloie is a small intimate boutique that offers convenience and personalized service, as well as an exciting and diverse selection of styles and sizes. They strive for every woman to leave with clothes she loves because they are fun yet functional, unique yet versatile, fashionable yet flexible enough to wear many times and many ways. Eloie customers tend to be women who are busy with thriving families or careers and seek quality, convenience, and great style. When you go to Eloie you will receive personal attention, a friendly and knowledgeable sales staff, and an exceptional onsite seamstress available to help perfect your fit for every look. They also participate in charity events and local merchant programs, and occasionally host special events, such as after-hours jewelry trunk shows. There was a change in ownership almost a year ago, and the new owner is gradually evolving the shop to better fit the community, and is introducing some great new lines in addition to the popular brands already carried.

With gas prices these days who can afford to go to the mall? Now you don’t have to because Gracie J’s Boutique will come to you. Being mobile creates a unique experience for her customers to shop for boutique clothing in the comfort of their home. It is an experience that is comfortable, fun, and where you will always find clothing and accessories that are a little different from what everyone else carries. A typical customer is a classy, sassy, and glamorous dresser who enjoys one on one attention from the owner, the person who hand picks every item herself. If that’s not enough, Gracie J’s also offers a personal shopping/image consulting service called "Sharpen Your Chic" where the owner will help you spruce up your wardrobe. For some who may not know, Gracie J's also has select items available for purchase online.

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