Six New Shops, Salons, and Studios that Lovers of Good Design Need to Know Now
After a few painfully slow years of growth in the local business sector, things have officially ramped back into overdrive. With seemingly a new shop popping up every time you visit a neighborhood, we thought we’d direct your attention to the new(ish) shops (under a year) we’re loving that might not be on your radar yet.
North of West
203 SW Ninth Ave
Image courtesy of North of West
Calling themselves a “design driven mercantile”, the bright, airy space at this downtown shop features shelves of lust worthy pottery, hand printed local apparel, casual backpacks stylish enough for adults all arranged in perfectionist pleasing way. From the owners of Nell & Mary, Make it Good apparel, and Pigeon Toe ceramics the just-a-few-months-old boutique has already caught the eye of Architectural Digest for its good taste.
The Annex
4018 N Mississippi Ave
Image courtesy of The Annex
On Mississippi Avenue, Animal Traffic is king. Not only with the six-year-old men’s and women’s shop that boasts rugged new pieces alongside classic vintage, but also with the recent launch of the shoe-focused offshoot The Annex. Owner Tom Erikson, made an exclusive partnership with Red Wing Heritage and Woolrich Footwear to carry the utilitarian meets fashion lines alongside likeminded brands like Minnetonka and Fortress of Inca.
West End Select Shop
927 SW Oak
Image from West End Select lookbook. Photo by Masahiro Shimazaki.
Owner Andi Bakos opened this tiny curated dream last fall, and since then has maintained a steady stream of tourists and the fashion forward set. Bakos focuses on higher end emerging designers worldwide which means you might find local lines such as the gender neutral Older Brother and lux leather Ara handbags on the racks alongside Hungarian line Nanushka.
Milk Milk Lemonade
1407 SE Belmont
Image courtesy of Milk Milk Lemonade
The storefront by Olo Fragrance creator Heather Sielaff, the childish sounding name belies the sophisticated concoctions on the shelves. From Olo’s nose pleasing oils, soaps, and face solutions to jewelry from local names like Hazel Cox and Better Late Than Never, the modern space offers lovely things for most of the senses.
House of Commons
3370 SE Division
Photo by Nicholas Wilson
Founded by cousins Delia Tethong and Katy Conners, the Division based biz is more than a typical boutique labeling itself as a rotating retail and gallery space. The owners say, “With each theme, the space takes new form by showcasing different artists, creatives, brands, workshops, events and product, that promise to be engaging, innovative and interactive.“ The current theme? Water. With the shop overflowing with items that conjure images of picnics, beach days, swimming holes, and all things summer.
Finger Bang
2727 NE Sandy Blvd
Image courtesy of Finger Bang.
If the name wasn’t enough to let you know, Finger Bang ain't your typical nail salon. Just open on Sandy Boulevard as of yesterday, the shop caters to those with a bold, funky aesthetic. Sit at brand new mani and pedi stations while a flaming mural by Klutch wraps around the walls, sipping a glass of wine or beer and get your nails did with nail art that screams, “Look at me!”
