Cave for Couture at Philly’s Latest Boutique

Shopping at the mall in the summer means sharing the aisles with massive packs of baby strollers and pre-teens. No, thank you. When I’m in need of a perfect cocktail dress or a new statement bag, I prefer something a little more personal.

Thank Gucci for Brooke Dillon and her new private appointment boutique, The Katacomb: Vintage. A stylist with a personal passion for the lovely — think one-of-a-kind necklaces, sparkle-laden tops and chic classics — Dillon’s shop is a shrine to fashion. The racks are full of treasures found through her travels across the globe, and shopping is done by appointment, meaning you have her full attention, and her full collection, all to yourself.

The Rittenhouse Square shop has a casual feel with white-painted furniture, gilded mirrors and a stack of vintage handbags on display. The inventory is a little more diverse, spanning decades, countries and styles. Diane von Furstenberg, Prada, YSL, Christian Dior, Valentino and Nina Ricci are currently available, as are new, exclusive labels Sophomore NYC and The Heiress. There’s just one of each piece, but free alterations are available to make sure your must-have dress looks just as good on you as the hanger.

Can’t get into town? Head to Dillon’s website, www.thekatacomb.com, and see if the “One and Done” special is for you. Dillon posts one of her fabulous finds online each day, only replacing it once a fellow fashionista snatches it up.

Dillon, who originally came to Philly to be a teacher, has instead schooled herself in couture. Personal service, feminine frocks and unique accessories? We give her an A+.

The Katacomb: Vintage is located at 1514 Pine Street, Floor One, Philadelphia. Call 215.520.2911 for an appointment.