Lunette Optic
Photograph by Karin Dailey There’s nothing worse than having to go to one place for an eye exam and another for a cool pair of frames. That’s why we love Lunette, which offers comprehensive vision evals and an exclusive lineup of high-end glasses and shades all in one place. Not only do owners Ted Mogtader and Michelle Rahimian stock the largest selection of Chanel sunglasses in Boston, but they also carry hard-to-find brands such as Kuboraum — a fave of celebs like Oprah and Lady Gaga — as well as their own Mora collection, produced in Italy and Japan. And with six locations (including two new ones opening this summer in the Mandarin Oriental and Harvard Square), it’s easier than ever to find the perfect pair. Multiple locations, lunetteoptic.com.
Airi Jewelry & Gallery
Courtesy of Airi Jewelry & Gallery We all have go-to ensembles, the ones we pull from the closet at least once a week because they make us feel good. But when you need just a little something extra to make yours special enough for [insert occasion here], a pair of statement earrings goes a long way. Enter the wearable art from Boston-based Airi. Crafted from stainless steel and tarnish-resistant brass, founder Maya Alia’s geometric wired pieces — we especially love the golden arches and the floral-shaped “ear jackets” — make even the simplest outfit look chic. shopairi.com.
Castanet
The 2023 buzz phrase “quiet luxury” — a.k.a. high fashion without the flashy logos — might as well be the slogan for this shop, which for seven years has been a treasure trove of previously loved designer finds on Newbury Street. Owner Cassie Knight takes pride in her carefully curated and extremely selective merchandise: Scoop up a sleek Brunello Cucinelli ensemble or an Alexander McQueen dress that looks like a million bucks but doesn’t scream it. 175 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, shopcastanet.com.
Glossier
Shopping for cosmetics is a tactile experience; how else can you know whether the lip gloss or foundation you’re buying actually works for your face? That’s why we’re so glad this cult-favorite beauty brand recently landed in Boston. Brimming with testers of all the must-haves — from the miracle-working brow pomade to the heavenly gel-cream blush known as Cloud Paint — the pink-hued shop is designed for experimentation and delight. 120 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, glossier.com.
Injeanius
Navigating the designer-jeans maze has never been more fun or flattering, thanks to Alison Barnard O’Brien’s denim bar and style lounge, which moved into its permanent Seaport home a year ago. From Agolde to Moussy to AG, you’ll find all of the premium jean brands here — plus luxe cashmere, chic tops, accessories, and more, all handpicked for optimal sustainability and style. 70 Pier 4 Blvd., Boston, MA 02210, injeanius.com.
Beacon Hill Books & Cafe
Photo by Mona Miri Bibliophiles flock here not only to explore literary treasures but also to be seen doing it. The highly Instagrammable four-level space boasts unique book selections and a lovely ambiance to linger in, but the best part just might be the tea service. Indulge in a delightful array of tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and sweets accompanied by a pot of custom-blended tea or a flute of prosecco while flipping the pages of whatever you just picked up for your book club. 71 Charles St., Boston, MA 02114, bhbooks.com.
Grain Surfboards
Nick Lavecchia/Courtesy of Grain Surfboards One look at these artisanal wooden boards, and you’ll want to hang 10 with the best of ’em. Lovingly handcrafted from locally sourced, eco-friendly materials, Grain’s custom fish, midlength, and longboards are always the talk of the beach. Want to help make your own? Join the Grain crew during a four- or five-day workshop in York, Maine, for an unforgettable hands-on experience. 73 Webber Rd., York, ME 03909, grainsurfboards.com.
Tourneau
Rolex. Patek Philippe. Breitling. If there’s a watch brand you covet, there’s a good chance you’ll find it at this exclusive watch retailer’s Copley Place outpost, which also sells pre-owned tickers and offers expert repairs. And given the shop’s sleek, gallery-like design, it’s no wonder serious collectors and dabblers alike love walking through the door. 100 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02116, tourneau.com.
Bos. Shop South End
Since it replaced the beloved Olives & Grace last summer, this sweet boutique, which showcases goods from Black-owned businesses, has taken over the mantle of Boston’s most thoughtful — and beautifully merchandised — gift shop. Drop in for a bag of loose-leaf herbal tea, a box of locally made chocolates, or a cute little “plant baby” for your dinner-party host (even better, spring for the curated gift box). No matter what you choose, you can be confident you’ll always get the same thing from the person receiving it: another invite. 623 Tremont St., Boston, MA 02118, blackownedbos.com/bos-shop.
Allandale Farm
Big-box garden centers are famously hit-or-miss — a $40 flowering basket may look lush on one side, but spin it around, and it’s scraggly and brown. That’s never the case at this locally owned farm, which sells picture-perfect planters, vibrant perennials, fresh veggie starts, and heirloom seeds for the DIY gardener to sow at home. Bonus points for the on-site cows and chickens, which can turn a ho-hum errand with kids into a real adventure. 259 Allandale Rd., Brookline, MA 02467, allandalefarm.com.
Booty by Brabants
Photo by Mark James Dunn/Amy Rose Productions Whether you’re working out or working from home, leggings have become a daily uniform for many of us. So it’s no wonder that Kelly Brabants’s business keeps growing: Her line of colorful and size-inclusive athleisure wear is now sold at two permanent locations, MarketStreet Lynnfield and Legacy Place in Dedham. Why do Bostonians covet her ultra-comfy leggings, shorts, and tops? It’s simple: The North Easton native uses her background as a fitness instructor to create pieces that are durable enough to survive an intense sweat sesh but cute enough to wear to brunch afterward. Lynnfield and Dedham, bootybybrabants.com.
Melina Cortes-Nmili, Lalla Bee
When it comes to her ultra-chic women’s clothing line, local designer Melina Cortes-Nmili has two inspirations: Carolina Herrera and her grandmother. “Carolina’s dresses never go out of style,” she explains. As for the second influence? “My grandmother was a self-taught seamstress, and she designed and made all of our party dresses.” Continue reading here.
lallabee.com.
Polkadog
Polkadog pet treats. Baked fresh every day at the company’s Boston Fish Pier kitchen, the “Chicken Littles” bones — made with simple ingredients such as poultry, long-grain brown rice, and potato flour — are better quality than anything you’ll find at the grocery store. The brand’s dried cod skins and chickenstrip jerky are also guaranteed to say “top dog.” Multiple locations, polkadog.com.
Park-9 Dog Bar
Nora, Emily Gusse and Tess Kohanski’s golden retriever, is Park-9’s "chief happiness officer." / Photo by Reagan Byrne There’s no other place we know of where you can order a cocktail for yourself and a perfectly paired treat for your canine. At New England’s first-ever dog bar, kick back with your BFF and enjoy a 10,000-square-foot space complete with lounge areas, two bars, and a cool backyard vibe. 48 Waters Ave., Everett, MA 02149, park9dogbar.com.
Onyva
This Newbury newcomer offers an innovative membership plan that includes one de-matting treatment to start and then two deep cleanings and unlimited brush-and-go quick visits, nail trimmings, and teeth cleanings every month. 171 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, onyvadogspa.com.
The Point Clothing Lounge
From the vintage NBA Jam arcade to the bar brimming with gratis whiskey, this place makes shopping for new threads — dare we say it? — enjoyable. But it’s not all fun and games here: Unrivaled in its selection of casual-cool clothing, accessories, and sneakers from more than 30 brands (including exclusives such as 7Diamonds, BYLT, and Oliver Cabell), the recently opened Southie shop makes it easier than ever to upgrade your wardrobe. 135 Emerson St., Boston, MA 02127, thepoint02127.com.
Eu2be
Your skin is your body’s largest organ — which means if you’re going to slather something all over it, it better be the good stuff. That’s where local entrepreneur Charla Jones’s newly relaunched line of body creams, oils, and balms comes in. Formulated with nourishing carrier oils (derived from the likes of sunflower, avocado, and sweet almond) that promise to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, the products are also sustainably sourced and packaged, so you never have to wonder if what you’re putting on your body is healthy for you, or the environment. eu2be.com.
Apex Noire
Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur or newly curious, this expansive downtown newcomer — founded by former City Councilor Tito Jackson — will make you feel welcome. Friendly staffers are happy to walk you through the options, from flower to pre-rolls to, most notably, a wide range of edibles. (Infused popping candy as a garnish for the rim of a drink? We’re in.) We’re also buzzed about the rooftop lounge and bar space that’s in the works. 150 State St., Boston, MA 02109, apexnoire.com.
The Bee’s Knees
Hunting for a King Charles III coronation coaster, a jam pot, or even a tin of mushy peas? This online store and retail shop, owned and operated by a trio of British expats, have all your U.K. desires covered. Established in 2011, the emporium is now the largest regional importer of British artisan goods, including tableware, textiles, and everything you could ever need for a proper cup of tea. 566 Massachusetts Ave., West Acton, MA 01720, thebeeskneesbritishimports.com.
Thom Solo
Once upon a time, you could only snag Thom Solo’s cutting-edge heels and boots by placing a custom order. Recently, though, the designer has found a way to scale production of his coveted footwear, making it more accessible to all. But that doesn’t mean he’s compromised on style or quality: Solo continues to revolutionize shoe design with innovative pairs like his iconic ruffle pumps and sexy croc long boots. thomsolo.com.
Concepts
You know a store has serious cred when it expands from Boston to New York, Dubai, and Shanghai. The international expansion is no surprise, though, when you consider Concepts’ selection of high-end streetwear from sensations like A Bathing Ape, Ami, Rick Owens, and Common Projects — not to mention its exclusive in-house label, which just so happens to be unveiling a sizzling new women’s line soon. 18 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, cncpts.com.
Kent Stetson
Kent Stetson shows off his colorful creations at his Pawtucket atelier. / Photo by Mona Miri Not content to simply create bags that make socialites ask, “Where did you get that?” at local galas, Stetson has recently been upping the ante on his quirky, personality-filled clutches. The fashion maverick is making bags for the LPGA team heading to this summer’s Solheim Cup in Spain (peep the patriotic flag design) and working on a collab with Grey Goose — all while finding new ways to wow his core customers. He recently snagged exquisite hide remnants from a top-notch tannery and is turning those tiny treasures into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, RI 02860, kentstetson.com.
Sinesia Karol
It’s been more than 10 years since Sinesia Karol got the idea to bring the eye-catching swimwear designs of her native Brazil to New England, and we’ve been grateful for it ever since. Available online and in her Newport, Rhode Island, storefront, Karol’s bikinis and one-pieces are guaranteed to stand out on the sand, thanks to electric color schemes, playful patterns, and interesting details (oh hello, ruffled bell sleeves). 135 Spring St., Newport, RI 02840, sinesiakarol.us.
The Superette
Where else can you buy yoga pants, high-end custom fragrances, tacos, and, oh yeah, an electric car all in one place — and top it all off with a round of indoor mini golf? That’d be the Seaport’s newest shopping destination. It may have been designed to look like a “charming European square,” but the sprawling 125,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space is New Boston through and through — and we’re loving every bit of it. Boston, MA 02210, bostonseaport.xyz/superette.
Tafari Wraps
The beauty of these Fort Point–designed head wraps, hat wraps, headbands, and more is in the fabric, to be sure: high-quality silk dupioni, richly patterned Ankara cotton from West Africa. But what truly sets Tafari apart is the artistry of Imani McFarlane, who has been creating her gorgeous ready-to-wear and custom pieces since 2006 with love, pride, and a sense of deep meaning: Each piece is meant to celebrate and preserve the culture of the Black diaspora. tafariwraps.com.
Talia Don
So often, fine jewelry has a formulaic look: a dainty gold necklace here, a simple diamond tennis bracelet there. The bold pieces from artisan jeweler Talia Don, however, are anything but predictable: Layered with sparkling semiprecious stones and freshwater pearls and fashioned in unique shapes, her showstopping designs beg to be worn and cherished for generations. Stop by the studio and workshop (by appointment only) to find the statement piece of your dreams. 288 Walnut St., Newton, MA 02460, taliadondesigns.com.
December Thieves
Celebrating a decade in business this year, this cutting-edge boutique continues to set the city’s fashion world ablaze with styles you won’t find elsewhere (just ask Halle Berry, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Melissa McCarthy, all of whom have popped in while in town). The only Boston retailer of edgy Trippen footwear and clothing by Barcelona designer Lurdes Bergada, owner Lana Barakat now has another feather in her cap — an exclusive with South African maestro Karien Belle, who designs one-of-a-kind word-printed scarves and clothing. 51 Charles St., Boston, MA 02122, decemberthieves.com.
Vivant Vintage
Have you ever entered a store and immediately felt like you could spend hours perusing the racks? Well, that’s what it’s like to step into Vivant Vintage, where every item inspires a memory as well as a vision for how you might wear it. The Allston clothier has been around since 2011, when founder Justin Pomerleau started selling his collection from a homemade tricycle cart called “Le Pants King.” Fast-forward a decade, and the shop is a bona fide destination for everything from old-school Champion sweatshirts to Gucci scarves, sold both in-store and online. 318 Lincoln St., Allston, MA 02134, vivantvintage.com.
SoWa Open Market
Where do all of the area’s coolest artisans go on Sunday mornings? For the past 20 years, the answer has been SoWa. This season, you can browse handwoven baskets from NinaNest, delicate nature-inspired jewelry from Gratinsta, and stunning pieces from Charged Glassworks before treating yourself to some food-truck munchies and a brew in the grazing area. It is the weekend, after all. 500 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118, sowaboston.com.
Community Bike Shop
Whether you’re looking for a commuter bike or a rugged ride for your next off-road adventure, this family-owned neighborhood favorite has the goods (including top-notch Specialized and Fuji bikes and a unique assortment of used bikes). And with a full-service workshop that excels at tune-ups, overhauls, and brake services — not to mention a remarkable range of accessories — you’ll never have to pedal elsewhere. 496 Tremont St., Boston, MA 02116, communitybicycle.com.