Cotton Candy Fairy Princess

After the past few days of seriously gloomy Chicago weather I decided to head to Yellow Jacket Vintage located at 2959 N. Lincoln Ave. for a little “vintage therapy” I can’t say that I’ve ever been there before but after doing my usual research and read so many good reviews I just had to see what all the fuss was about. In my experience with some vintage boutiques they seem to either be very picked over or they have a limited selection of quality items. That I was so thrilled to discover was not the case at Yellow Jacket.

I made a b-line for the accessories and found some really fantastic shoes, belts and handbags which are always a favorite then something on a nearby dress rack caught my eye. A stunning full length leopard print Lycra gown for $22.00! Now I know what your thinking…really Lycra leopard print, how absolutely horribly tacky, borderline trashy. Take into consideration for one moment that I do so love over-the-top everything and it’s definitely not something that everyone would wear but I was in fact shopping for myself. The cut was flawless and fit as if were were soul mates. I think it will look smashing with a very simple pair of strappy black stilettos, some layered chain medallions (since it has a plunging neckline) one of my black vintage fur jackets and a great “fashionjenn” clutch.

Okay, I know I just got way off track but the dress really is fabulous.

After pinching myself for a third time I scored a killer white woven bucket hat decorated with silk flowers, I totally plan on taking them off and replacing them with some huge vintage brooches I’ve collected add in a pair of huge old school sunglasses and you’ve got yourself one heck of a shopping trip!

I would also be amiss not to mention the wonderful girl who was working, she was so helpful! She seemed to size up my style right away and pulled all kinds of great outfits for me to try on.

Oh So Pretty in Pink

I left the store feeling like I had just found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and I can say without a doubt that they have made me a loyal shopper for life.

The next time you are in the neighborhood stop by…you never know what you might find!

You can also find Yellow Jacket Vintage in Milwaukee, WI at 1237 E. Brady Street or at:http://www.myspace.com/yellowjacketvintage

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During one of my many expeditions in search of less mainstream fashion I found myself in Logan Square at the Wolfbait & B-girls Boutique on W. Logan Blvd. http://www.wolfbaitchicago.com I had heard about them while visiting  Fashionninja  in Milwaukee http://www.fashionninja.com and was excited to learn about an thriving “indie” boutique in my home city!

Stepping inside the doors I was met by two friendly faces who offered their assistance from behind a counter where they were manning various sewing machines. The small space was carefully merchandised with handmade treasures ranging from cards, jewelry, handbags and clothing.

I have been in many “indie” boutiques but I would have to say that Shirley Novak and Jenny Stadler the owners have done it right. The place has attitude and panache, and I found myself wanting to stay all day and just hang out.

I loved the wrist cuffs made from recycled bicycle tires by Decycled and the fur handbags, though I cannot for the life of me remember the name of the designer (sorry).

It’s a great place to snag a truly unique for someone really special… or to spoil yourself rotten just for the hell of it!

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For those of you who have haven’t been, South Haven is a small beach community along the shores of Lake Michigan. The scenic town is full of vacation rentals, pristine public beaches, family owned restaurants and a wide variety of retail shops. Among the surf spots and typical “gift” shops I found a some real gems!

~Renaissance & Papyrus~

Renaissance and Papyrus is a lovely two story boutique located on Phoenix Street in a turn of the century building. Walking through the front door you are greeted with racks of beautiful dresses, coats, handbags, tops and more accessories than one could wear in a lifetime. Every detail of the store has been carefully planned with the fashionista in mind, I found the most amazing necklace ever…I’ll elaborate on that

later! Up a small staircase you will find yourself surrounded by delicious beauty and bath products, aromatic candles, linens, home accessories, cards and wonderful gifts. I could have spent hours in there and still not have seen every treasure. The staff were very sweet and helpful and seemed to be having a great time putting together accessories as they chatted with the customers.

Renaissance and Papyrus is my best boutique pick in South Haven!

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~Murphy’s Mall~

Murphy’s Mall…well it isn’t exactly a mall and don’t let the modest exterior and Forth of July homage fool you, this place is jam packed with an array of goodies! From retro collectibles, china, vintage clothing, furniture, accessories, glassware and display cases bursting at the seams with costume jewelry I think I lost my mind somewhere on the basement floor wondering how on earth I would ever fit everything into my car on the way home.

So, I suppose mall would be a accurate description after all, it’s truly worth a stop…but you might want to rent a U-Haul!

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~PROPS~

“Your home is your stage…Add some drama!”

Props is a contemporary home accessory and gift store that has something for everyone, as their mantra would suggest! Bright and spacious with an open airy feeling they offer carefully selected merchandise to add some serious flair to your living space. I especially loved their serving platters, wall art and very reasonable pricing.

This boutique really has a sense of humor that brings a smile to your face once you step inside.