‘Tis the season… for graduations and weddings, that is, and that means the LWD (little white dress) hunt is on for grads and brides-to-be. While we certainly can’t argue against the sweetness of the perfect white dress on the lady-of-the-hour at a graduation or bridal shower, there’s something to be said for putting your own twist on tradition and that’s where Alice + Olivia Mame Zip Back Shift Dress from Encounter Boutique comes in. The exposed back zipper and textured gold metallic fabric offer just the right amount of edge to pop out from a sea of white cotton. while the classic shift cut keeps mom happy.
One Shallow Reason Every Town Should Protect Their Boutiques
If it isn’t already apparent from my chosen line of work, I love boutiques. I love them for far too many reasons to elaborate on in just one blog post, so for today I’m picking one shallow reason and running with it: boutiques make our towns more beautiful. Their attentively coiffed exteriors make our neighborhoods and downtowns “charming”, they raise our property values, they give us a relaxing place to spend an afternoon, they make our Main Streets a destination not a pass-thru. When was the last time you looked at a big box store, its blinding glowing lights and expansive gray parking lot and thought, “Wow, that’s charming. I’d like to live right next to that.” Never? That’s what I thought. I’ve never seen a real estate listing that boasted “in walking distance to Walmart!” So the next time you are enjoying your hometown boutiques (or any other town’s for that matter), take a minute to remember what the alternative is and relish in the fact that you have local boutiques (like the beauties below) to enjoy.
Sporty & Chic
Sometimes, you just want to feel comfortable, but wearing sweats all day really isn’t an option. Enter Love, Zooey: a chic and comfortable clothing line with a playful, sporty feel. These stylish takes on classic comfort wear will have you looking stylish but feeling relaxed. What could be better?
Get the Look :: Love, Zooey curated by Encounter Boutique
- Sarah
Want-It-Wednesday: Gretchen Scott Embroidered Tunics
April showers supposedly bring May flowers, but up here in New England all we’re seeing are gray skies and drizzle. Cue: last-second weekend getaway. Okay, we haven’t actually booked one, but we’re thinking about it and that includes making up an imaginary pack-list. First on it is Gretchen Scott’s Embroidered Tunic ($98) from She Boutique in Marblehead, MA. It’s perfect for a spur-of-the-moment vacay for several reasons: it’s lightweight and comfortable (great for traveling in), can be dressed up or down (wear it as a coverup over your bikini or out to dinner with white jeans), and rolls up so compactly that it will take up almost no space in your carry-on. It’s available in three color combinations (orange/pink, white/blue and white/pink), so pick your fancy. If you’re looking for a dressier version, check out Gretchen Scott’s Poly Georgette Embroidered Tunic in navy/pink and black/brown. Bon voyage!
Our Online Boutiques Are Stocked With Gifts For A Mother Like No Other
Remember when preparing for Mother’s Day meant spray painting the finest macaroni, stringing it onto some yarn and calling it a day? Chances are, if you’re now larger than 3 feet tall, that dried-pasta-turned-jewelry trick won’t fly with mom any longer (and no, not even if you saw it on pinterest). Thankfully, our online boutiques are run by a few fantastic ladies who know just what mom really would like (besides “grandchildren, already”).
Accessories are always the best starting point for gift-giving. Upgrade mom’s drugstore pair to something that makes her commute feel a little more glam, like these Elizabeth and James Zelzah Black Sunglasses from Encounter Boutique. Is your mom is more of the aviator type? Round? Cat eye? We have them all.
Scarves are another go-to for the mom who has given you everything. If she’s new to the scarf trend, send her this fantastic tutorial on 25 ways to make it her own along with this EMU Australia Elliot Heads Scarf on sale from Duchess Boutique for just $32.
If all else fails, we’ve yet to know a mother who didn’t appreciate a thoughtful piece of jewelry, and that’s just the bill that the Frolick Alice Initial Necklace from Sadie’s Boutique fits. At only $52, this piece will become mom’s new “everyday” necklace. It’s simple and special.
Our boutiques have plenty more where these came from. Browse our online boutiques’ accessory collection for more great jewelry, bags and sunnies with something to fit every fabulous mom this Mother’s Day.
Cinco de Mayo
Now that May is here, it’s starting to feel like summer is finally on its way. For me, Cinco de Mayo has always marked the start of summer fun. Get into the Cinco de Mayo spirit this weekend with this JWLA Matilda Poncho Tee. Pair it with some white skinny jeans, some fun jewelry, and a margarita to complete the look.
Get the Look :: JWLA Matilda Poncho Tee curated by Helena’s Boutique
- Sarah
The LBD
The little black dress: no wardrobe is complete without one. This timeless staple is a go-to dress for any number of events, and can make you feel instantly chic. I love how different accessories can make the look feel new; just add some pretty jewelry or fun shoes and you have a whole new look. Did you know the little black dress first became a style must in 1926? Real Simple has a great article about the history of the LBD — it’s worth a read! This Alice + Olivia Tara Dress adds a fresh twist to the classic look with a chiffon blouse top, nude lace details, and fitted skirt. (I just love the open back and zipper detailing!)
Get the Look :: Alice + Olivia Tara Dress curated by Encounter
- Sarah
Want-It-Wednesday: BB Dakota Gail Tank
Don’t get us wrong, we love the pastel trend as much as the next girl (I’m wearing mint green as I type this), but sometimes you just something bolder: a punch of primary color. This BB Dakota Gail Tank Top from Helena’s Boutique in Arlington and Belmont, MA has it. The graphic print front and solid red racerback guarantee you’ll be a standout in a see of mint and lavender. Pair it with white skinnies this summer or a blazer this fall for a year-round look that’s a steal at just $59.
A Rainy Day Must: TEXTILE Elizabeth and James Tie Dye Perfect Sweatshirt
The East coast weather gods obviously haven’t gotten the message that it’s May already; until they do, cozy up in TEXTILE Elizabeth and James’ Tie Dye ‘Perfect Sweatshirt’ in ‘Twist’ Violet from Encounter Boutique. Wide scoop neck, french terry, long raglan sleeves: this is not your boyfriend’s sweatshirt.
A Short Story
Each year as the weather gets warmer, I find myself searching for a perfect pair of cutoff shorts that I can roam around in all summer. You know the kind I mean: not too short or too long, comfortable, and with just the right amount of fraying on the edges. While I still love classic denim cutoffs, I’ve been looking for something with a bit more punch this season. These Citizens of Humanity Chloe High Waist Cutoff Shorts in Banana-Rama and Petite Navy Rose are right on trend with colored denim and printed florals, and would be a perfect addition to a summer wardrobe.
Get the Look :: Shop Cutoff Shorts
- Sarah












