Affordable chic at Mimosa Boutique/Mimo for Men in Fort Lauderdale

 

Mimosa Boutique/Mimo for Men is a seven-year old unisex boutique that sells stylish and inexpensive pieces for men and women. Located in a cute little enclave with stores and restaurants, this boutique appeals to a young audience looking for style on a budget. 

Style and flair at Xarra in Fort Lauderdale

Xarra may have a spelling that makes pronunciation unclear for English speakers (it's pronounced Zara), but what is clear is that this place has got flair. Known as the "City's chic lady's boutique" Xarra definitely lives up to that description.

Xarra's collection of clothing is bold, bright and diverse. From silk blouses that tie at the shoulders to bright yellow blazers, to vintage garnet red driving gloves, this boutique has quite a selection. In fact, I saw my favorite piece here out of all 22 shops I visited- a leopard print, mid thigh-length dress from France with ruched, draped sleeves and a black tie around the waist. It was chic, beautiful and had flair! It's pictured in the top photo.

The owner of the shop, Helene Bert, who is from France, describes the style as contemporary, funky and European. Don't confuse contemporary with teenagers or the like however, because this store has items for women of all ages. They have sophisticated pieces that are youthful and stylish.

Xarra has been in business for six years. Their prices are moderate, ranging from $30 to about $120. They do hold events at the store and participated in the Art Walks on April 7 and May 5. Art Walk is put on by galleries, shops and restaurants along A1A to the Intracoastal Waterway that open their doors from 7-11 p.m.

Xarra is located at 3345 N.E. 32 St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308. The parking in the plaza is metered spaces so bring change. They do not have a web site. You can call Xarra at 954-565-5775

Apparel for yogis at We are Yoga in Fort Lauderdale

We are yoga is a fashion niche boutique that offers clothing for those who practice yoga. Its creative logo, which spells out the word yoga using human bodies in various yoga poses for each letter, can be seen on much of the apparel inside.

The clothing is light and breathable, made predominantly out of cotton, which is perfect for practicing any exercise, especially yoga. It allows the yogi to comfortably move into different poses without feeling restricted by tight clothing. Most of the tops come in solid colors-greys, whites, reds- so as not to distract other students when they're trying to get into that yogic state of relaxation.

The clothing is stylish, too, for those that want to feel fashionable while they're sweating and meditating. They have racer-back tanks, like the red top pictured at right, and form-fitting long sleeve tops. Some of the tops carry awareness messages, such as the one below with the words "Pink Warrior" which is advocating breast cancer awareness.

More than shoes at Shoes & You in Fort Lauderdale

Looking at the name Shoes & You, you might think that this is just a shoe store, but you'd be mistaken. While this large boutique does offer a prime selection of footwear, they also have clothing and accessories. In business for an impressive 34 years, Shoes & You is definitely a Fort Lauderdale boutique staple.

Shoes & You is a large space with room for lots of clothing, bags and accessories. Walking in, you're greeted by a full-sized poodle breed sitting in the display window. Then out from the back of the store comes a much smaller, baby-sized poodle mix. Both dogs are adorable and only add to the family-style appeal of the long-running store. The clothing itself has a throwback/modern appeal, like the dress at the left which sort of resembles a 70's style vest, attached to a more contemporary print skirt.It's notable that it's paired with a chunky necklace as there is a large collection of jewelery in the store, from popular designers like Brighton.

Easy living in Fresh Produce in Fort Lauderdale

It's all about living the casual, beach lifestyle, whether you're a tourist or a So Fla native, at Fresh Produce on Las Olas. The vibe at Fresh Produce, from the wood floors and expansiveness of the space, to the array of comfy clothing, give it a laid back, loose and beachy feel. Manager Suzi describes the clothing as "easy wear."

"Fresh Produce offers fresh and fun easy wear that people can feel comfortable in."

Designer and consignment apparel at Haute and Swagger in Fort Lauderdale

Haute and Swagger has a distinct business design, in that it offers new and vintage designer clothes, plus designer clothing on consignment. The boutique carries an array of designer brands including:

• Prada
• Missoni
• Marc Jacobs
• Ralph Lauren
• Donna Karan
• Moschino
• Armani
• And many more
  

Children's clothing at Flora Ottimer

Flora Ottimer Children's Boutique has it all in the name. It is a boutique that sells children's clothes, toys and gifts. The style of the clothing is whimsical and polished, kind of like Ralph Lauren for baby meets Anne Geddes photography.

There are cute color-coordinated separates, with one outfit consisting of navy blue pants with a monogrammed red flower and a red top with a monogrammed navy blue flower. Speaking of monograms, Flora Ottimer sells monogrammed towels, customizable by name for about $60. They also sell toys for babies and children such as rocking horses, dolls and beanie babies. The price range is moderate to high, with a dress costing anywhere from $50 to $150 or pants going for $60. Prices in general range from $20 to $350.