We’ve waited hopefully, patiently, eagerly. We’re so over North Face fleeces, down coats, and black turtlenecks.
MIBs asked five North Shore boutiques “What is the item every woman needs in her closet this spring?” From bright colors to a novelty jacket, we found the answer to the ever frustrating question, “What am I going to wear?”
Lillie Alexander , 197 E. Westminster Rd., Lake Forest , 847-295-8686
Lillie Alexander thinks color and prints are big this year. But the must-have pieces are boho chic. Here’s the look: Karta tunic in white with detailed beading ($144) paired with Marc by Marc Jacobs cropped linen pant ($188). To pull it together, Lillie added a pair of chunky wedge Frye sandals ($198), and a large white Marc by Marc Jacobs handbag ($498).
Fresh Ideas , 300 Happ Rd., Northfield, 847-446-3774
Fresh Ideas owner Juli Blunt suggests three key pieces to have this season:
A novelty spring jacket that can be worn indoors or outdoors in a bright color
A crisp white button down and tee shirt
Scarves
“Scarves are the biggest accessory trend right now,” says Julie. Adding a different color scarf to your outfit changes your look in an instant. “Right now,” says Julie, “everyone is cost sensitive and wants to work with what they already have in their wardrobes.”
Julie gave us three looks using one jacket (by Luii, $90). First, she pairs it with Red Engine dark wash skinny jeans ($165) and a white tee shirt (Lilla P $37) and it’s a casual look.
Second, paired with a white pant (Elliot Lauren, $138) and a crisp white collared shirt ($188), you’ve taken your look up a notch. And the third look, put with a black and white novelty skirt by Isda ($118) you can go from work to evening. The skirt will transition well through the fall by pairing it with boots.
Three Sisters , 270 Market Square,
Lake Forest
, 847-604-8565
Three Sisters owner Mari Morsch says “It’s all about a great trench coat in a punch of color to make you feel good.” Mari showed us a modern blue trench coat by Priorities, a new line to the store. “We’re sensitive to what’s going on in the economy, and this line is good quality and affordable,” she adds. The trench can be worn with slacks or jeans, and can be dressed up or down. Priorities trench coat shown: $156. Whatever your fashion style may be, following the guidelines of these experienced boutiques will send you on your way to enjoying the fresh looks of the season!
Gray, 821 Chestnut Court , Winnetka 847-446-5650
The must-have piece at Gray this season is the Long Maxi Dress. It’s the perfect blend of style and comfort. The Maxi dress featured here is the Hale Bob Halter Maxi that retails at $295.
Country Classics, 1405 Waukegan Road , Glenview, IL, 847-998-4644
“Fleebags are the hot item for this spring,” says Country Classics owner Kathy Carlstrom. “I can’t keep them in the store! People love the colors and use them for everything from book carriers to tennis and paddle tennis bags. They are versatile, durable, and priced well, which is important in this economic climate.” Price of the Signature Flee Bag shown is $89.
