By Libby Hoppe
Summer is my favorite season of the year for a number of reasons, but mostly because of the wardrobe shift that takes place in my closet. The gray sweaters and tweed trousers make way for colorful summer dresses and boyfriend cardigans and the boots and closed-toe heels are replaced with espadrilles and sparkly sandals. I have a few boutiques in Austin to thank for renewing my summer wardrobe year after year.
Adelante is magical. The boutique, which sits in a charming shopping center just north of downtown, has the uncanny ability to outfit any woman, regardless of her personal style. Owner Tricia Roberts fills the flirty boutique with dresses, tops, shoes and jewelry that are hip yet casual, glamorous yet oh-so-Texas. The word Adelante means “onward” or “forward” in Spanish, which is fitting because every time I walk into the store, I don’t feel sad to leave all my old duds behind and bring home something new. The best part is that Roberts started offering cool vintage furniture and home accessories in the store last year (think classic wing chairs with mod geometric fabrics or funky owl lamps with black lampshades).
For skirts and tops, it’s Adelante, but for jewelry, my go-to stop is
Eliza Page in downtown’s Second Street District. It has what every woman wants: diamonds, gold and precious stones. But it has those items in original, beautiful configurations by local Texas and national designers. Translation: You won’t show up at a party wearing the same earrings as your girlfriend. Some of the pieces are really affordable, while others are investment pieces, but they are all really special. I’m personally a fan of whimsical pieces in the Mingle jewelry line by Rachel Roberts and Jamie A. Kelsch’s bracelets and pretty leaf earrings, but the selection at Eliza Page is so vast, you’ll find something that suits your taste.
A few of my other favorite boutiques include
bows+arrows, a trendy store that carries jeans and leather jackets for guys and Rag & Bone tees and Love dresses for women;
Spartan, bows+arrows sister store that carries mostly home trinkets and interesting gifts; and
By George, Austin’s fabulous designer store with the latest from Lanvin, Marni and Balenciaga (for very special occasions). I could go on, but half the fun of shopping is happening upon your own favorite stores. Next time you’re in Austin, wear comfy shoes, because lovely little shops are all over town.