Tag Archives: local designers

Sara Jane’s No Plain Jane

Goodbye to Plain Jane. Sayonara, Farewell, Au revoir! Now say hello to Sara Jane.

It was the fall of 2002 when Sara Jane opened a store bearing her own name in hopes of providing a true boutique experience amongst the slew of chains just blocks nearby on the Magnificent Mile. Nestled in perhaps Chicago’s most charming neighborhood, Old Town, Sara Jane has made her humble splash on the scene. Although a regular in Lucky Magazine and Chicago Magazine, ask your average Chicagoan and they probably have never heard of the place.

But local fashionistas and Old Towners know to turn to Sara Jane for unique finds on adorable dresses, cocktail wear, jeans and accessories. The quick turnover allows for more variety and the small space often times conjures up new friendships and gab sessions (lucky thing there are plenty of pubs and bistros nearby!) A visit when “Sara Jane” herself (a.k.a. Sara Plocker) is there will only prove this neighborhood-gal-pal feel all the more.

Sage Boutique’s Big Finds for a Small Budget

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Sitting AreaWith four locations across Atlanta, Sage Boutique is a ‘must shop’ for the fashionista, whether just budding or firmly ensconced!  In a city with many high end shopping choices, Sage fills the bill with both quality and quantity ~ and get this, at prices that are shocking because they’re so affordable.

Most items are under $100 and new arrivals are stocked every Friday.  Look for labels like Alternative, Free People, Miss Oops, IT Jeans, and See Thru Soul, along with unique handbags and accessories. Sage supports the local arts community by selling jewelry made by neighborhood designers.

The friendly employees always suggest cool styles, colors or help you build on a favorite piece you already own.  At Sage, chances are you’ll leave looking like a million bucks, without spending nearly that much. The store is located at The Collection at Forsyth. Visit sageclothing.com for more information.

Thread Lounge: Discounted Designers to New Labels

“Where did you find that- and for what price?” will soon be familiar words if you put Russian Hill’s Thread Lounge into your shopping rotation. Opened by fashion industry veteran Colleen Smith, the Polk Street shop sells high-end sample pieces and excess stock from both Picture 19independent designers and sartorial titans at greatly discounted prices. With 300 labels in the loft-like space and apparel and accessories for men, women and children, it’s a one-stop shop for all seasons and occasions. From chic yoga gear to statement-making evening wear, Thread Lounge Designer Sample Sales has you covered.

You’ll certainly be charmed by the price tags on designs by the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Trina Turk, and Joe’s Jeans, but this boutique’s biggest asset is the attire from lesser-known, up-and-coming designers, like Julie Brown and Nougat of London. Smith’s extensive stable of local and international labels makes for a wardrobe of seemingly one-of-a-kind wears that will no doubt become a talking point. Whether you pick up the most becoming blue jeans or a head-turning party dress, you’ll spur curiosity and envy in all who pass you by.