Delectably girly with an edge is how I would describe Smak Parlour. The boutique and their clothing remind me of the ever popular (and my favorite) No Doubt single “Just a Girl”. I envision the type of girl that wears their designs can hold her own, while looking completely adorable at the same time!

Open just under a year, yet another daring female duo decided to take a leap and open their own shop. Abby and Katie both have a love for fashion and it shows. Plus, they’re the sweetest ever, always enthusiastic about their clothes and what they do.

They make their clothing onsite, right in the back of the store, which is cool because you can sneak a peek at their inspiring workspace. It always feels good to leave with an eclectic, original piece and they’re creating new items all the time. This boutique sells lots of tanks, t-shirts, and everything in between. They take simple garments and tastefully add flair by combining sewn on details, different fabrics, or a mix of funky silk-screens, ribbon and lace to make it their own. I’m dying for a pair of their super cute black leg warmers with cherry details! Smak Parlour also carries unique shoes, jewelry, accessories and body products throughout the store.

Facing Market Street, they have a prime location in the heart of artistic Old City. The flirty decor compliments the clothing precisely. Chandeliers hang above, and different layers of paint and wallpaper strategically cover the walls. Wardrobes painted various shades of pink and original items are everywhere you turn. It’s the kind of place where I would love to accidentally be locked in overnight, a perfect place to have a slumber party with some girlfriends, trying on clothes, applying makeup and laughing the night away.

For the girl next door who doesn’t want to look just like the girl next door, stop in to Smak Parlour for a one of a kind design.

Smak Parlour
219 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215.625.4551

Pretty Girl, Shop Girl | Email | Print | //

Although not new to the area, in fact they just celebrated their 5th year anniversary; ME & Blue remains a fresh old city boutique. I personally love to mix clothing styles to create an eclectic and original look. ME & Blue makes life easier by selling both new and vintage items. Nothing beats a blend of fashion and this is one stop shopping for a truly innovative look.

Climb the steep staircase to the 2nd floor, which may leave you winded for a moment, but well worth it! Enter ME & Blue, comprised of minimal decor that showcases their fashions brilliantly. Hardwood floors, open loft-like space, track lighting, suspended silver clothing racks and long flowing curtains hang from the ceiling, while distinctive outfits dangle throughout. You’ll find shimmering jewelry, handbags, along with unique accessories. This boutique gives an urban, yet warm and cozy feeling. It’s always a fun and comfortable place to shop.

The mix of clothing is so stylish that, if not for the label on the tag, it’s often hard to distinguish the vintage from the newer pieces. Check out their website for a list of the lines they carry or venture in and see for yourself just how chic ME & Blue really is.

The staff is continuously gracious; they make casual conversation, are always helpful in putting outfits together and great at combining pieces in ways I would never dream of. They offer one of a kind looks; never cookie-cutter designs, and they always have the prettiest window-displays that inspire new fashions.

I’ve recently discovered they provide a service called “Closet Cleanout” to help create new looks within the wardrobe you already have, while assessing your needs and pointing you in the right direction. Nothing wrong with updating and adding to your current collection!

ME & Blue does the groundwork in finding cool and unique pieces, all us city gals have to do is stop by and indulge.

ME & Blue
311 Market Street, 2nd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Tel: 215.629.2347

Fancy Girl, Pretty Girl, Shop Girl | Email | Print | //

As a young girl, I was obsessed with drawing fashion illustrations, creating unique looks and styles. I was even lucky enough to have a massive Barbie collection complete with wardrobe to match. All of this later developed into a love of fashion and all things beautiful. I can still be found cutting out glossy ads that catch my eye for creative ideas and inspiration.

Philadelphia Style is one simple pleasure in life that keeps my childhood fashionista alive. I’m so happy when it arrives in my mailbox, as it keeps me on top of the latest and greatest in the city. It’s similar to any high-end fashion magazine, only cooler, because it has its hand on the pulse of Philadelphia. They cover all lifestyle topics, including health and beauty, design for living, style, food and drink, and people and entertainment. The magazine features local events and parties, the latest restaurants, boutiques, along with real estate in the city. For you, your home, your life - that’s their target and they’ve hit a bullseye.

The magazine has its own Philadelphia Style Club, which offers exclusive promotions, events and discounts in and around the city. Also check out their Philadelphia City Guide, a compact version of everything hot in the area.

If you’re like me and can’t wait for the magazine or want to be sure you don’t miss an issue, subscribe; otherwise it can be picked up at numerous locations in the area. Some salons and retail stores even have a limited number of free copies.

Philadelphia Style keeps me on top of the latest happenings in the city, along with fashion, design and all things glamorous in the world. One can’t be a cutting-edge Philadelphia city girl without Philadelphia Style magazine, so pick up your copy today!

Tip: there’s also Style magazine for fashionable DC city girls

Philadelphia Style
Philadelphia Style Club
141 League Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
215.468.6670

Fancy Girl, Relaxin' Girl, Scene Girl, Shop Girl | Email | Print | //

With its somewhat discreet locale above Alfa restaurant, Walnut Room is a much-needed addition to the Rittenhouse nightlife scene. Climb the stairs and find yourself amidst a stylish and sophisticated, yet casual lounge. Dimly lit and draped in shades of red, Walnut Room offers an atmosphere to please many. Even with its narrow space, there is plenty of seating throughout and enough bar space to see and be seen. The DJ perches above a small dance floor, which is usually packed with people. They also offer a more private room overlooking Walnut Street for those nights when you would rather just relax and watch the crowd. Whatever your mood, Walnut Room will provide a fun and interesting evening. Specialty drinks are what they’re known for, along with a broad variety of music, including hip-hop, old school, and salsa depending on the night. I’ve even seen the infamous roller-skating dancers there a few times, so you never know what the night will bring. This lounge is heating up the Rittenhouse area with delicious drinks, cool music and a fashionable crowd, but without the pretentiousness that places in midtown can sometimes bring.

Call for weekly events and DJ rotations.

Walnut Room
1709 Walnut Street, 2nd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215.751.0201

Scene Girl | Email | Print | //