Blades Board and Skate
Tired of being left in the dust on the Esplanade? Replace your outdated ski-boots-on-wheels with a pair of the newest in light, breathable, vibration-damping models. Whether you're going for speed or fun, entry-level or advanced, Blades's knowledgeable staff will guide you to the perfect pair. And though you may shun safety gear, the folks at Blades don't, with their large selection of helmets, pads, and other accessories. You can always compensate with hip, urban skating ensembles, also in ample supply here. 349A Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Q Optical
Finally, a designer frame shop that knows the meaning of the word "designer." Wares blend form and function, from cunning little rimless specs to out-and-out statement shades by the likes of Oliver Peoples, OGI, and Armani in a variety of colors. The personable staff will walk you through the pros and cons of current trends until you feel comfortable finding the right fit for your face. 287 Newbury St., Boston, MA qoptical.com.
Bonpoint
When the nanny complains that little Madison has outgrown her pinafores, get yourself (or send your personal assistant) to Bonpoint. The French clothier's exclusive pastel sweaters, jumpers, pants, and dresses are acclaimed by fashion editors and parents alike for their high quality and adorable designs. This cuteness costs, though—upwards of $100 for simple overalls, $230 for silk dresses, and $280 for cashmere baby one-pieces. Baby Gap, it isn't. 18 Arlington St., Boston, MA bonpoint.com.
City Sports
We're all for supporting the little guys, but we have yet to find a neighborhood shop that can offer even half of City Sports' selection. With one swift stop, you can score the newest super-shock-absorbing running shoe, dart tips for your aging set, and CamelBak water packs for long hikes. Then there's the clothing for indoor and outdoor sports, equipment, and shoes to go with it. 480 Boylston St., Boston, MA citysports.com.
Royal Jewelers
Chances are the jewelry you saw on the pages of a national fashion magazine is under the glass at Royals. Penny Preville, Kisselstein-Cord, SeidenGang, Doris Panos, TechnoMarine, and Philippe Chariol are just some of the designers represented at this family-run business, which has catered to the North Shore area for 50 years. Look for a store face-lift this fall that will add an in-house David Yurman boutique. 58 Main Street, Andover, MA royaljewelers.com.
Mr. Sid of Newton and Palm Beach
This is a shop for guys who hate to shop. In fact, Mr. Sid's has more amenities than some hotels. While their Zegna suits are being custom-altered, pampered shoppers can play pool, get their hair trimmed by an in-house barber, have a drink at the bar, or knock back espressos. The staff even tries to help the old-school faction of its clientele understand "Casual Friday." 1211 Centre Street, Newton Centre, MA mrsid.com.
Machine Age
Even if mod furniture wasn't stunningly trendy, we would gush about Machine Age. For nine years, owner Normand Mainville has indulged his passion for such things as classic Herman Miller chairs and Saarinen tulip tables. The oversized showroom's selection is so good that furniture dealers from around the country visit for inspiration. If this style is up your alley, you should too. 354 Congress Street, Boston, MA machine-age.com.
Paper Source
Located just a few blocks from the Porter Square T stop, this store beckons with a welcoming allure. Once inside, the right side of your brain is in overdrive. You may find yourself suddenly wanting to throw a party or wishing you were moving to a new address, just as an excuse to buy the unique invitations and announcement cards. In the back of the store is a separate room filled with a huge selection of stationery and in every possible shade and paperweight. An added plus: Workshops in bookbinding and paper-making are offered. 1810 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA paper-source.com.
Opticians 3
Two things make an optical shop great: a wide selection of frames, and an attentive staff. All three locations of Opticians 3 offer both. Designer frames range from classic Giorgio Armani to modern Prada to funky Jean-Paul Gaultier. The staff knows its inventory well and can help you find something that fits you perfectly. Few bargains here, but hey, this is your face we're talking about! The Mall at Chestnut Hill, Chestnut Hill, MA opticians3.com.
Coach
Ever wish for an elegant overnight bag, one that can hold all your clothes and accessories but doesn't resemble something from a military maneuver? Coach has the answer. With its new store open at Copley Place, the luxe leather manufacturer continues to expand and redefine its products, recently adding luggage to the line-up. From men's dop kits to large duffles, Coach's Hamptons Travel Collection is perfect for quick overnight trips, and also includes pieces for the long haul. Copley Place, Boston, MA coach.com.
Antiquers Three
This Brookline storefront is ground zero for 20th-century American and European decorative arts. Art Deco and Art Nouveau are heavily represented, particularly French art glass and lighting, in items ranging from museum-quality chandeliers to ceramic dishes. Be prepared to open your wallet, but if you buy something here, chances are you'll keep it forever. 171A Harvard Street, Boston, MA .
City Sports
Whether you just want to buy a Wiffle ball set on your way to the park or a top-notch pair of dumbbells, City Sports carries all the athletic support you need for any sport. There's an ocean of running shorts, warmups, and skiwear to sift through, as well as an amazing collection of helmets, eyewear, balls of every sort, and odds and ends like weight-lifting gloves and nose plugs. Some locations even offer tennis racquet stringing and in-line skate rentals. 168 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA citysports.com.
Blades Board and Skate
Next time you're strolling the Esplanade, don't let that cute rollerblader pass you by—strap on some skates of your own and pull up alongside. How to make a good impression when you finally catch up? Stop at Blades first, the ultimate purveyor of all things wheeled and wooden. The staff will hook you up with the best selection of skateboards and in-lines in the city; they'll also keep you looking fly with rack after rack of fashions from Flosport and Aesthetics gear. 349 Newbury Street, Boston, MA .
Louis Boston
Determined to strike out against the WASP uniform of rumpled khakis, polo shirts, and sensible shoes, Debi Greenberg and dad Murray Pearlstein have revolutionized the way Bostonians dress. Their modern approach to fashion eschews mainstream labels for smaller, innovative designers, earning Louis Boston an international reputation as the store to watch—and copy. This store has the goods. And for your entertainment, deejays spin on the ground level Saturday afternoons. Does it get any cooler? Not in Boston. 234 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA louisboston.com.
Alan Bilzerian
It's tough making an entrance, especially when the party season is in full swing. Young bohos in search of funky outfits are those into more serious chic might want to check out the gauzy, filmy numbers by designers whose names trip over your tongue: Demeulemeeseter, Galliano, Yamamoto. The store also has all the party accouterments, from cashmere cardigans and jewelry to hairpieces and Sergio Rossi shoes. 34 Newbury St., Boston, MA .