Haute Couture: The Haute 5 Fashion Boutiques in Phoenix
The Valley has unfortunately seen many of our beloved boutiques close in the past few years, victim to economic downturn, but there are several local favorites that are still going strong. Here are our Haute 5 independent boutiques in and around Phoenix.
Estilo Boutique
Long a favorite among locals, Estilo carries sophisticated, unique pieces by hard-to-find brands, such as Halston Heritage, Karina Grimaldi, Easy Money and Literature Noir. The boutique itself is uber-cute, a fun place to do some last-minute shopping for something fetching to wear the same night. Co-owned by Kelly Dixon and Gina Cooper, the boutique has been credited in a number of national magazines, including Real Simple, People, Us and Yes!, and is a regular participant in Scottsdale Fashion Week. Many items here also have sensational international flair, thanks to the owners’ travel experiences and love for new and different prints and styles.
Estilo Boutique is located at 7135 E. Camelback Road in Scottsdale 480.664.0365
Local Talent
A newcomer to the Scottsdale fashion scene (its grand opening was at the end of April), Local Talent already has the makings of a boutique staple. Housed in a chic 3,000-square-foot space in Old Town, Local Talent exclusively features items by Arizona designers, and wares range from apparel and accessories for men, women and children, to even items for the home. Owned and managed by Shannon McRae, Local Talent encourages Phoenix residents to “go local couture” and buy up designs by the finest talent the region has to offer, including dresses by Angela Johnson, rocker-chick ensembles by Bri Bridge, jewelry by Bella Bijoux and more.
Local Talent is located at 7050 E. Fifth Avenue in Scottsdale 480.874.1000
Bunky Boutique
Owned by Rachel Malloy, Bunky Boutique opened in 2007 and is currently housed in a very cool, industrial-like space at Central Avenue and McDowell Road. The boutique carries high-brow pieces for both men and women, but at prices probably more reasonable than you would be expecting. Also a supporter of “going local” when it comes to fashion, Bunky usually has many items in stock created by local designers, such as dresses and jewelry, as well as designer leather purses. The shop’s new location in downtown Phoenix make it close to where all the action is happening and a fun and convenient place to browse before or after an event.
Bunky Boutique is located at 1437 N. First Street in Phoenix 602.252.1323
Pink House Boutique
Danica Coral’s original Pink House boutique opened in Glendale five years ago, but today is actually a co-op of more than a dozen small shops, all independently owned and housed under one roof. In just one trip, shoppers can peruse specialty jewelry, clothing, decor and stylish accessories. The variety in goods translates to a wide range in prices, from $5 to $200, and also an element of surprise, as you just never know what new treasure you’re going to find. Just one of the highly sought-after brands is Elegantly Wasted, a shop specializing in pinup and rocker clothing and culture. Every third Friday, Pink House hosts a monthly trunk show, complete with cocktails and snacks.
Pink House Boutique is located at 7009 N. 58th Avenue in Glendale 623.298.4766
Hub Clothing
Hub Clothing is considered a local boutique success story, having originally opened on Mill Avenue in 1991 and done so well it moved to Scottsdale Fashion Square the following year. Tom Simon, who owns the store with Jennifer Mumford, stocks a lot of denim, catering to the younger crowd and trendier styles. Here you’ll find high-end jeans from brands such as Diesel, Nudie Jeans, Citizen of Humanity, Rag and Bone and others. But there’s also a fair amount of vintage tees, women’s clothing and contemporary accessories in the store. Be prepared to spend upwards of $300 on a pair of jeans here, but we think you’ll find the fit well worth it. If you’re looking for a steal, shop here in January and June, the two times a year that Hub has major sales.
Hub Clothing is located in Scottsdale Fashion Square at 7014 E. Camelback Road in Scottsdale 480.970.0707