Ignite - Women's Fashion - West Valley Boutiques

Women's Fashion

December 1, 2006
West Valley Boutiques
by Carolyn Carver

Mass-produced, trendy and low quality—words that describe the clothes and looks usually found at the mall.
Head-turning, exclusive and indestructible – more words that describe the one-of-a-kind pieces only available in boutiques.

The truly fashion conscious wouldn’t be caught shopping at the former.

MONIQUE/MASON

To be the one at the party, dinner or club with the outfit everyone is talking about is an insurmountable feeling. Don’t be the one that just spices up what you can find at the mall. Be the one wearing what no one else can find.
The common misconception that boutique shopping requires extra hours at work and a serious budget analysis is simply not true. One and only stores offer a different experience with much different results.

“I look for fit and personality and won’t let anyone leave unless the items fit their bodies and personalities perfectly” says Ingrid Chouimard, founder of Regala Fashions With A Flair. The one-on-one genuine customer service (keyword genuine) of boutique sales associates is hard to find along the sterile halls of the mall.

Boutiques also feature small shipments of a variety of items, guaranteeing fewer people sporting the same outfit. “Once you see it you better get it, it’s done,” says Leslie Kelly, assistant manager of Roka Boutique.

Once you find that “super cute” shirt or “wow” pair of jeans, count on them lasting and being in style for seasons to come. Chouimard promises the higher quality pieces will not fall apart in 3-6 washes and will not be thrown away 6 months later when it’s no longer “in.”

There’s a reason why unique rhymes with boutique. Some of the most unique boutiques go the distance for some of the best this Valley has to offer.

ROKA BOUTIQUE

For “a classic twist on contemporary style” visit Monique/Mason (8110 W Union Hills Drive, Glendale, 623.537.1623). This 1,400 square foot SoHo-inspired boutique caters to modern style and offers a mix of trends for men, women and teens. Owners Tanya Paradis and Steve Mason define genuine focusing solely on the needs of their clientele. “That is the reason we offer so many unique styles for men and women; everyone can find something to fit their personality,” states Paradis. Monique/Mason features popular designers such as Isabella Fiore, Kellynishimoto, Sweetees, Sky, J Brand Denim, Siwy Denim, Hudson, Johnny Cotton, Monarchy and Michael Kors.

Roka Boutique (20118 N 67th Ave, Glendale, 623.537.3500) is a clean, crisp, up-to-the-minute, unique boutique. The contemporary design of the store mimics an urban loft distinctively in the heart of Glendale. It features men and women’s most current fashions in a fun environment. Carrying such brands as 1921, LAMB, Juicy Couture, Lure, Peoples Liberation, Joes Jeans, King Baby jewelry and the popular men’s line Ed Hardy, Roka will not disappoint your desire for individuality. Kelly says people in the west Valley love that they don’t have to go to the east side. As for east-siders, Roka is worth the distance and will Roka your world.

HAUTE C

Mother-daughter success story Haute C (6685 W Beardsley Ste 130, Glendale, 623.572.6894) is a bit different than many Valley boutiques. Offering choices for both men and women, Haute C is well on its way in carving its own niche in the jumbled market that is specialty boutiques with their special attention to customer service that pretentious shops just can’t match. Men’s lines include Seven, True Religion and Lacoste, with the women’s designs headlined by names such as Betsey Johnson, Ben Sherman and Fresh.
Check out shophautec.com for the latest in designers, events and this season’s hottest styles.

REGALA

Living on the mantra “if it looks like it belongs in the mall, we don’t buy it,” Regala Fashions With A Flair (7615 W Thunderbird, Peoria, 623.875.0688) will certainly arm customers with “wow” outfits. Ingrid Chouimard emphasizes personalized service, contemporary but not trendy designs, and won’t let anyone buy something that does not fit their body and personality to a tee. NYDJ jeans featured on Oprah and in People Magazine are the stores top sellers along with key pieces that fit and flow. The décor of the store is upscale, trendy, color-coordinated and challenges interior designer’s best work. “I will work my fanny off to make sure you leave with a smile on your face,” concludes Chouimard.

LISTINGS this is where it's at

add a listing

SITE SEARCH find anything

Listings SEARCH

NEWSLETTER stay informed

ADVERTISE be seen

Be a part of our magazine. People will hang on to these babies for a while so you can't go wrong!

download media kit

What's new restaurant nightlife arts & entertainment
image photo get it advertise
about us news calendar listings archives