Edition: St. Louis Hosts U.S. Figure Skating Championships
Shopping ... St. Louis Savvy Concierges choose their favorite shops
Author: Jennifer R. Rolf
A St. Louis shopping experience can be tailored to fit your every need. Whatever your heart (and wallet) desires -- the latest in men's and women's fashions, jewelry, furnishings for your home, or gifts -- it can likely be found in one of our area shopping malls, specialty stores and those off-the-beaten-path shops where priceless treasures are often uncovered.
For Her
indulge your fashion sense at Laurie Solet (314-727-7467, 8228 N. Forsyth Boulevard, M8;E2), where even the most stylish of fashionistas will be impressed with this homegrown girl's chic selection of women's and children's apparel, accessories and gifts from renowned designers worldwide. The store recently carried designs by Citizens of Humanity, Nicole Miller and Rebecca Taylor, just to name a few. If you weren't already visiting St. Louis, you'd have to go far to find another J. McLaughlin (314-872-1818, 1508 South Lindbergh Blvd., M5;C2), which houses the rest of its shops along the Eastern Seaboard. Sportswear is the name of the game at this store, which creates and carries its own designs, but you can also find that cute dress for the big date or the perfect tropical attire for the much-anticipated winter cruise. Looking for that last detail to jazz up and complete your ensemble? Whether it's a unique pair of shoes or a novelty handbag you're seeking, Susan Lynn's (636-530-7337, 130 Chesterfield Towne Center, M1;C3) offers an eye-catching selection at this fun boutique. The store also carries hats, gloves, scarves and accessories by many designers, including My Flat in London. The classic styles of Ann Taylor (multiple locations, see p. 40) can help any woman look sophisticated with the newest trends in work and weekend casual, suits, jackets, dresses and much more, including petities.
A Guy Thing
Sam Cavato (314-997-1100, Plaza Frontenac, M5;C2) is all about making the man's shopping experience worthwhile in the timeliest fashion possible. The staff will personalize your visit and go above and beyond to help you dress for success. Suits, shirts, ties and shoes are the key elements, and designers include Magnanni, Salvatore Ferragamo and Ermenegildo Zegna. Mister Guy (314-692-2003, 9831 Clayton Road, M5;C2) can outfit the fashionable man for work, a fancy soiree or a casual night on the town with its assortment of famous-designer shirts, sweaters, suits and much more. Sometimes it can be challenging to find the proper size and fit for the big and tall man, but not at Dean's Clothiers (636-532-1771, 1677 Clarkson Road, M1;C3), where their specialty is helping you find the best fit in suits, shirts, ties, belts and more for business or casual needs. Whether it's attire for work or play you're after, it's easy to dress the part at Mark Shale (314-725-4888, 1147 Saint Louis Galleria, M4;B1), where you'll find the latest trends in sportswear, dress and casual knits, shoes, shirts and ties, blazers, and even items for tall men.
Furnish Your Home in Style
Shoppers have more than 8,000 square feet to explore at Gringo Jones imports (314-664-1666, 4468 Shaw Blvd., M4;C4), a one-of-a-kind store offering an eclectic assortment of yard decor, furniture, ironwork, sculptures, Mexican wares and even a collection of colorful purses and jewelry. At The Gifted Gardener (314-961-1985, 8935 Manchester Road, M4;D1), you will likely be tempted by many of the unique gifts and accessories for the home and garden, including fountains, furniture, lamps, clocks, wall hangings and statuary. One of St. Louis's newest additions that delights locals and tourists alike is Crate & Barrel (314-725-6380, 1 The Boulevard, M4;B1), which boasts two stories of modern home decor, furniture and kitchenware.
Gifts from the Heartland
As the name suggests, A Floral Gallery (314-727-1166, 7616 Wydown, M8;F2) offers floral arrangements and flowers, but doesn't stop there. This quaint shop also features wreaths, candles and other gifts for any occasion. Liven up someone's day with a little something from Viva! (314-968-8482, 2542 Brentwood Blvd., M5;C2), which has a charming display of silver, jewelry, sun catchers and more. Take a tour around the globe at World Market (multiple locations, see p. 43), where one can find worldly knick knacks, home furnishings, gourmet food and wine, and many other collectibles from the Far East to the land Down Under.
Bejewel Yourself
Two jewelers have long legacies in St. Louis. Hamilton Jewelers (314-241-5653, 750 Locust, M2;B4) carries an extensive collection of watches, gemstones, pearls, gold and, of course, diamonds; and the recently remodeled Elleard Heffern (314-863-8820, 101 South Hanley, M8;E3), specializing in fine jewels and design services, has more than 90 years under its belt. Handmade Native American treasures and unique jewelry await you at Silver Bear Jewelry (314-771-0304, 2103 Marconi, M4;D4). As the name suggests, it specializes in silver, but also has a selection of freshwater pearl, crystal and semi-precious stones, and custom-made jewelry is also available. A fine selection of diamonds and watches awaits that special someone at Tiffany & Co. (314-692-2255, Plaza Frontenac, M5;C2), the purveyors of the distinctive blue box that beckons.
All Around the Town
Tourists flock to historic St. Charles (M6;A3) to shop with a touch of charm. Enchanting shops tempt you with gifts, home decor, apparel, furniture and much more, and afterwards the area's many eateries provide respite for weary shoppers. Located on Delmar Blvd. in University City, the Loop (M4;A3) offers a shopping experience like no other. Many boutiques and specialty shops dot this bohemian boulevard, including new an vintage clothiers, jewelry stores, home furnishers, gift shops and music stores with unparalleled new and used CD and vinyl record collections. Take a break at a sidewalk cafe, restaurant or coffee shop, and all that walking and shopping allows you to splurge on ice cream for dessert. Antique lovers will delight in the dozens of stores found along Cherokee Street (M4;E6). Dubbed "Antique Row", this thoroughfare is anything but one-dimensional, as it also hosts a number of shops that carry clothing, books, art and other collectibles. The prominent central location of the Saint Loulis Galleria (314-863-6633, Clayton & Brentwood, M4;B1) welcomes shoppers from all directions. Flanked by multiple department stores, the Galleria features many of the shops you might expect and many you don't, including Aveda, three different Gap stores (each separately catering to men, women and children) and the recent addition of Urban Outfitters.
You Deserve a Break
Now that you've shopped and are ready to drop, why not relax at one of the area's soothing spas? After that excursion at Plaza Frontenac, you don't have to head far to reach the oasis at Stonewater Spa (314-569-2111, Plaza Frontenac, M5;C2), where you'll relax in elegance. The Face and the Body (314-725-8975, 2515 S. Breatwood, M4;C1 and 636-532-2500, 1765 Clarkson, M1;C3) is prepared to help you unwind or rejuvenate with its state-of-the-art spa treatments, nail care, hair design and day escapes. It's easy to pamper your senses at Studio Branca (314-469-1222, 12627 Olive Blvd., M5;C1), where you can enjoy a spa package, body treatment or the full-service studio for hair, nails, make-up and body.
