Peek-a-boutique

peek-a-boutique

We go inside two local shops to see how women are dressing up this summer.

By Kathryn Achenbach photos by violetta dominek for john reilly photography

avenuefashions Fashion flows through Sandy Panuce’s blood: Her mother Florence, a custom dressmaker nicknamed “the lady with the golden hands,” opened Avenue Fashions in 1949 on Chicago’s Bryn Mawr Avenue, and later relocated north to Lincolnwood. However, Avenue has just moved into a bright, expansive space in Deerfield Square that evokes the feel of an Italian salon, and is filled with everything from casual denim to floor-sweeping gowns. “This is my dream store, my mother’s dream store,” says Panuce, stressing that while the impeccable taste and customer service Avenue is known for will continue, women will also see the addition of more modern lines in the “Avenue Contemporary” collection.

“What we were, we still are, but what’s ahead is more innovative—if you’re in tune with the times, you’re in style.”

720 N. Waukegan Road Deerfield 847-940-1818 Click here to visit their Better Listing 

On Allison Carmen Marc Valvo dress, $598; Bernie of New York hoop earrings, $245; g.j. bracelet, $320; Julie Feldman clutch, $395; Kate Spade sandals, $325, available at Shirise

On Allison Cartise gray jean + tank (not shown), $325, cutout jacket, $160; Teri John sequin tank, $150; Sandy Duffler belt, $174; Alisha D. necklace, $90; Heet bracelet, $230; Kate Spade sandals, $360, available at Shirise

On Allison Teri John dress, $420; Hoop earrings, $120; Jimmy Choo sandals, $495, available at Shirise

mia sorella Looking good meets feeling fine at this serene boutique-salon-spa, where you can come for a massage and Keratin treatment and leave with a flirty sundress and killer jeans. Twin sisters Mary Sirois and Molly Kiefer opened Mia Sorella in 2009 as a place where all women could feel welcome. “We want our clients to be like family,” says salon manager Jessica Heckman. To that end, a lounge area with toys and video games keeps kids entertained so mom can take her time perusing the shelves or sitting for a No Chip manicure. Who doesn’t want such practical pampering?

104 S. Cook Street Barrington 847-842-5009 mia-sorella.com 

On Katie: Amanda Christine dress, $178; MESH necklaces, $112–$178 On mannequin: Frock! by Tracy Reese dress, $250; MESH necklace, $90 Hair + Makeup by Jessica Heckman at Mia Sorella Salon

On Katie: Paige Denim jeans, $160; Nick & Mo floral top, $62; Nikibiki camisole, $16; assorted necklaces $22-$48; Hobo clutch, $118; (in background) Viv & Ingrid hairpins, $34; Archipelago candles, $20; K. Hall candles, $22-$30