Power Fashion: The Ten Best Boutiques

Power Fashion: The Ten Best Boutiques

Looking fabulous has never been easier, or more fun, when you're hunting and gathering at these boutiques.  Whether it's a once-a-year gala or dinner with friends, you'll find what you need at these top ten fashion destinations.

Kristina Richards   If you are in need of a little sunshine, visit either location in Cranston or the newly renovated store in Newport.  Especially perfect for warm weather and cruise wear. The owner and atmosphere is laid-back California, no pressure, just pretty dresses, tops, jeans, bags and a great selection of high-end costume jewelry.  The clothing is arranged by color (not category), which makes you think you should go home and rearrange your closet this beautifully.  17 Touro St, Newport, 848-5284; and 1000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 270-0188, www.kristinarichardsstudio.com

Galapagos Boutique  This is what I call destination shopping. Grab your best girlfriend and pencil for a half-day, minimum, at this fashion mecca in Charlestown.   The boutique’s two floors burst at the seams with clothing from casual to black-tie, plus shoes, accessories, and the all-important under-things to complete your look. And when you need some refueling, visit Dave’s café on the premises for a cappuccino and scone.  You’ll walk out with the whole outfit and even the perfect hostess gift to bring to your dinner party. Tailoring on premises. 5193 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, 322-3000, www.galapagos-boutique.com
 

F. Bianco   Here’s your place for a funkier take on classic clothes.  The suits have an edgier feel and the floor length dresses are nothing close to mother of the bride.  The jeans are the hottest denim from LA and NY.  The owner is a supportive friend of locally grown designers like Nicole Romano and Nicole Miller.  Bags, bangles, belts and jewelry complete your look.  You’ll walk out feeling a bit sexier and flirtier.  Tailoring on premises.  8 Midway Rd, Cranston, 942-6620
 
Capucine   Looking for something casual?  Jeans, tops, and cashmere are the mainstays on South Main.  High quality and nice assortment in many colors and sizes.   The store even feels cozy, like you’re wrapped in a cozy cashmere hoody.  Equally fun and comfortable for the campus and the soccer field.  359 South Main St,  Providence,  273-6622

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ZuZu’s Petals   Here’s the place for the perfect prom dress, cocktail frock, or sundress.  Moderately priced and always well stocked.  You walk into a rainbow of colors and fabric and walk out party-ready for any season.  You’ll feel oh so pretty. 288 Thayer St, Providence, 401.331.9846; 1000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, 369-7440; 165 Main St, East Greenwich, RI, 398-1199, www.zuzusri.com

Therapy   There was not much for South County’s fashionistas but thanks to this store, Wakefield just pumped up the style volume for women looking for a casual, laid-back South County feel.  Lots and lots of tops, some jeans, casual skirts and jewelry.  Elevate your everyday look with this kind of shopping therapy for your wardrobe blues. 254 Robinson St, South Kingstown, 783-9400, wwwtherapyclothingboutique.com

Dish  If you are an Eileen Fisher fan, this store is for you, only better.  The pieces are earthy, organic, and artsy.  Much of the jewelry and bags are designed by RISD artists.  Handmade, one-of-a-kind scarves are strewn across the glass shelves.  You walk out feeling like you will be the only one wearing your outfit, a unique fashionista.  155 Water St, Warren, 247-7705, www.dishri.com
 

Mignonette  This is the place for the prettiest, most romantic girlie things from around the world, specializing in lingerie, perfumes, lotions, and decadent chocolate.  It always smells delicious and sounds lovely.  The owner buys her fragrances from the oldest perfume houses in France and Italy and boasts gorgeous undergarments from Europe.  Imagine a place where every day feels like Valentine's Day, and you feel a little more French fatale.  301 Wickenden St, 272-4422, www.mignonette.net

Mel and Me  This boutique houses the state's highest-end designers including Jill Sander, Missoni, Marchesa and shoe gods like Jimmy Choo.  It’s super high quality and pricey but the clothes are beautiful.  A word to the shopping wise, don’t walk in looking like a schlump, you won’t be taken seriously and will not be given the attention you so deserve.  The regulars are treated to fashion goodies taken out from “the back closet.”  It’s a bit high maintenance, high-pressured atmosphere but the quality and beauty of the clothes make it worth it. Tailoring on premises. 74 Hillside Rd, Cranston, 943-4646, wwwmelandme.com
 

Zoe & Co.   Every woman in RI owes it to herself and “the girls” to visit this lingerie bonanza.  At Zoe’s, it’s a serious science where you will be fitted, measured, and tutored on the best way to wear your under things.  You'll be told to forget everything you ever knew about your size and you walk out feeling as though you emerged from the plastic surgeon’s operating room.  No joking here.  Zoe’s surpasses Nordstrom’s customer service and knowledge and surpasses VS’s selection, boasting 170 sizes!  You’ll find everything from nursing bras to pasties and even some erotic toys.  Take your girlfriend (not your toddler) and be prepared to hear lots of laughter and giggling from your fellow shoppers in the next dressing room over. 69 High St, Westerly, 596-8050,  www.zoeandcompany.com
 
What makes a boutique great?  Read about it here.

Julie Fenton is a global marketing consultant for some of the world's best and brightest companies. www.thefentongroup.net

Photos Kristina Richards, Stephanie Ewens, Zoe & Co.