Like flowers that burst into bloom every spring, a host of new shops have opened in Houston this month — and several begin with the letter "A," which seems appropriate for our April edition of Where To Shop Right Now.
Here's a list of interesting new stores to check out, along with some longtime favorites that have recently spruced up or have unique offerings.
After setting up boutiques in Austin and Dallas, home goods designer Jonathan Adler has opened a fabulous new store in West Ave — and it's about time. The 3,500 square foot emporium, which can be seen from Kirby Drive, offers a full range of products from "the king of quirky, Pop home design," including furniture, home decor, rugs, tabletop collections, bedding, gifts, candles and a"gift bar" that features room vignettes and special occasion gifts for just about everyone.
Owner Luvi Wheelock has moved her chic clothing store to River Oaks Shopping Center (2040 West Gray) with an impressive roster of cutting-edge designers, including Rodarte, Jason Wu, Narciso Rodriguez, Prabal Gurung and Viktor & Rolf. Architect Steven Gordon and interior designer Sissi Robinson Kassel have created a comfy space with an oversized crystal chandelier to beckon shoppers to the glam life.
The boho, vintage-inspired women's apparel, accessories and home furnishings store has crossed over to the other side of the street at Highland Village (4066 Westheimer) into a big new space that once housed part of Tootsies. The expanded store leaves plenty of room for a wide selection of shoes to be offered for the first time, along with a large jewelry area and space for nice display of the one-of-kind objects the chain is known for.
The fashion forward footwear and accessories chain has remodeled its Galleria flagship store and is celebrating with a weekend-long series of grand opening events (Friday through Sunday) featuring gift card and promotional giveaways, live DJ performances and 15 percent off all spring merchandise. Houston-based lifestyle blogger Lynne Gabriel will host a special party from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday.
After managing a Dallas specialty boutique, Annie Odum returned to Houston to open her own store offering unique women's apparel and adornments. The new store, in River Oaks Shopping Center (2015A West Gray), features distinctive apparel and jewelry for the shopper who wants to look casual and chic.
After operating two stores in Houston, Linda Cunningham has combined everything under one roof at her 3310 Edloe Street location. The 4,200-square-foot boutique now carries contemporary brands like Catherine Malandrino and Black Halo that were previously at the River Oaks Shopping Center location, along with designer creations by Cunningham and other ready-to-wear designer labels.
Specializing in men's luxury footwear and accessories, Mezlan has opened a Houston flagship store in Galleria I (5015 Westheimer). Fine footwear and belts made from exotic skins and fine leathers, along with men's socks, are made in Spain emphasizing European-inspired construction and comfort.
Though open for a few months, the west Houston luxury men's apparel store recently had a big blowout grand opening party to benefit Child Advocates. Located in CityCentre, the Houston-owned and operated boutique features a wide range of business, formal and casual wear by such designer names as Billy Reid, Bogosse, Jack Spade, Donald J. Pliner and Citizens of Humanity. There's also a women's section, featuring Tracy Reese, Vince and Trina Turk.
In honor of Earth Day (April 22), Kiehl’s in Highland Village has launch a limited edition Ultra Facial Cream ($46.50). This commemorative product features label art designed by celeb partners Zachary Quinto and Alanis Morissette. All proceeds benefit Recycle Across America.
Add a pop of color to your spring wardrobe with the new Miu bi-color Madras top handle leather bag, $1,450, at the Miu Miu boutique in the Galleria or online.
Specializing in men's luxury footwear and accessories imported from Spain, Mezlan has opened in Galleria I.
You don't have to put bags in the "tool bag" silhouette.Photo courtesy of Consuela
Grouping items in smaller cases can make a clear bag look neater.Photo courtesy of Consuela