Haute Couture: The Haute 5 Fashion Boutiques in Philadelphia

The clothing you carefully select from your closet each morning is so much more than a shirt and skirt: it is the first impression people will have of you all day long. Don’t take the chance of heading out looking frumpy or, perhaps worse, ordinary. Key pieces from Philly’s favorite shops will ensure your look is polished and posh.

 Here’s a look at the Haute 5 fashion boutiques in Philadelphia.

Boyds

Haberdashery, dress boutique, and shoe haven all in one, Boyds is Center City’s shrine to fashion. Spread over luxurious floors and spanning three generations, the store is focused on quality designers and excellent customer service. Allow the staff to lead you through gowns by Armani, bags by Bottega Veneta and knits by Autumn Cashmere. Browse jewels and timepieces by Govrberg. Recoup with lunch on the Mezzanine at the Cafe at Boyds. Addressing every need, style and occasion, Boyds’ attention to details means you will look as together as they are.

Boyds is located at 
1818 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, 215.564.9000, www.boydsphila.com.

Joan Shepp

Looking for a cozy yet chic coat for early morning school drop-offs? Eye-catching separates for lunch dates on the Square? A killer cocktail number for the latest charity soiree? Joan Shepp has you covered. The selection is as diverse as the city’s neighborhoods, pulling from uber brands like Moschino to eclectic designers such as Yohji Yamamoto. Edgy yet wearable, this stop should be on every trend-watcher’s list.

Joan Shepp is located at 1616 Walnut St., Philadelphia, 215.735.2666, www.joanshepp.com.

Sophy Curson

Established in 1928, Sophy Curson was cool before the word was invented. A gleaming destination just off Rittenhouse Square, shopping this boutique is akin to browsing your friend’s lust-worthy closet. Find a gala gown from Marissa Baratelli or a smart hat from Peter Beaton. Or, for a quirky splurge, nab one of the store’s best sellers: an exclusive  line of handmade, needlepoint slippers starring your favorite dog breeds. The line has sold out continually at both the Philly and Fort Lauderdale locations.

Sophy Curson is located at 
19th & Sansom streets, Philadelphia, 215.567.4662, www.sophycurson.com.

Smak Parlour

For the young and moneyed, hip is the name of the game. And no Old City hot spot does it quite like the girls of Smak Parlour. Owned by fashion plate best friends, the shop is fun, flirty and full of original designs. Hipster punk meets girly bubble gum works well in the line of dresses, tops and leggings. While there, pick up a few great gifts as well, like lacy coasters or a cheeky baby onsies.

Smak Parlour is located at 219 Market St., Philadelphia, 215.625.4551, www.smakparlour.com.

Per Lei

Main Line fashionistas who don’t want to trek in on the R5 have an option other than the local mall in Per Lei. Standing apart amid suburban sprawl, this shop features a wide array of designers, all presented with a focus on personal service. Grab cute Alice & Olivia sweaters, edgy Vince leather jackets or flirty headbands and Lucite bracelets. From stable Michael Stars Tees to catwalk-ready Badgley Mischka shorts, Per Lei proves the burbs can be beautiful.

Per Lei is located at 2 E. State St., Media, Pa., 610.566.1245, www.perleiboutique.com.