Woodbury Boutiques

A close look at boutique shopping around town.

By: Maureen Kroening | From the issue: July 2011

Photo: Emily J. Davis

Jenny Bochenski, owner of Elodie at Woodbury Lakes

There’s a lot to be said for boutique shopping. From the hands-on shop owners and personable sales staff to the unique and fashionable merchandise, we can almost guarantee you’ll never leave empty-handed.

Conveniently located in Woodbury Lakes, Elodie carries an abundance of fashion-forward items based on New York and Los Angeles style. Expect to love their printed dresses and glitzy jewelry, but owner Jenny Bochenski says the store’s best known for designer denim. “We’re seeing a lot of wide-leg jeans for the fall, and ‘skinnies’ are still popular,” she says.

Find a new favorite pair at Elodie’s annual denim sale August 25–28. This one-of-a-kind boutique, which Bochenski opened in 2006 after relocating to the Twin Cities from New York with her husband, will be fully stocked with trendy new jeans and all the key pieces to help transition your wardrobe from summer to fall. Look for sweaters and dresses in shades of coral, sage and mustard, Madeline and Nicole brand boots (footwear is a new venture for the shop) and more. Bochenski says she looks forward to helping customers create a complete look from head to toe. 9140 Hudson Rd. Ste. 510; 651.738.1818

Stroll across the street and you’ll run into the newly remodeled Francesca’s Collections, with freshly painted walls, an additional fitting room and even a chandelier. The shop receives new shipments of clothing, accessories and decorative home accents on weekdays, and manager Samantha Rehm sees a rapid turnover with the inventory. “We have a loyal client base that comes in once a week to see our new merchandise straight out of the box,” she says.

When something sells out, it’s unlikely the store will receive it, plus in-stock merchandise can vary between locations (there are five in the state and 250 nationwide). This means you’ll be one of only a handful of people to purchase that hot item. The average price (about $15 for jewelry and $35 for clothing) is appealing across generations. “We try to be personal shoppers and girlfriends to our clients, and choose outfits that will flatter them, which keeps them coming back,” Rehm says. 9020 Hudson Rd., Ste. 412; 651.730.2012.

Celebrating its one-year anniversary in Tamarack Hills this month is Mainstream Boutique, one of 14 in the region. Owner Debby Terlizzi runs the boutique with her daughter Allison, a fitting arrangement due to the high volume of mother-daughter duos that stop in regularly. Debby says her customers appreciate the sincerity and friendliness that the close-knit staff of five can provide. “We’re very hands on and honest in a good way,” Allison says.

The Terlizzis are quick to note that they all act as personal shoppers, and can provide recommendations for items to suit any body type and any age. “Our store is filled with unique, fun and affordable fashions that will make you feel good. We’re good for everyone, from the college girl to the grandma,” Debby says.

One of the boutique’s most popular items year-round is the “one size fits all” M Rena brand tank that comes in seasonal colors and neutrals all year long. The duo predicts fun prints, Treasure Rock hoodies and leggings will be staples in their shop this fall. 755 Bielenberg Dr. #106; 651.739.8111

It’s all about jewel tones this fall for the gals (and guys!) at CorePower Yoga & Spa’s in-studio boutique. CorePower is your one-stop shop for all things yoga, carrying best-selling brands like Lululemon, Hard Tail and Margarita, plus yoga mats, mat spray, YogiToes and more. Owner Pam Sullivan says she and her management team select their inventory based on the preferred brands of their instructors, as well as the trends they notice while visiting other studios on vacation. “About five years ago, before I really got into yoga wear, I’d see my instructor and say ‘I want to wear what she has on,’” Sullivan reflects on her ability to provide comfortable, stylish and affordable apparel to her clients since opening the studio in November.

The boutique also carries lifestyle apparel (great for wearing on a cruise or just running errands around town) plus accessories like hats and scarves in seasonal colors like plum and forest green. The jewelry case displays designs by Alex and Ani, handmade Mala Beads (which are prayer beads turned into a fashion statement) and more. 8160 Coller Way Ste. C.; 651.459.9642

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