At least once a day I daydream about owning a little shop and wonder what the layout will be? Which items will line my shelves? And will people actually come in? I have romanticized life as a shop girl. Perhaps this is due to my long retail history. In any event, I believe I have a discerning eye for a shop done right. And the good news… several in Boston are doing it right and thus I want to share with you my favorite shops in Boston. Similar to my previous two posts on Boston, I thought it easiest to divide by neighborhood.

One thing to note: if you are visiting Boston and looking for more mainstream shops {J.Crew, Ann Taylor, Anthropolgie, etc.} just head to Copley Square and Newbury Street. You will find anything and everything there.

Beacon Hill

Charles Street is one of the most charming streets in Boston (next to Marlborough Street in my humble opinion) and is lined with some of the cutest shops. My favorites include:

Wish –  Oh how I wish my closet looked like Wish, filled with Joie, DVF, Milly and Ella Moss basics.

Holiday – When looking for that piece I won’t find anywhere else, I stop on in to Holiday. The sales people are always super helpful and their affordable jewelry is a go-to for last minute gifts.

Good – A well curated shop of jewelry, handbags, linens, pottery and books. They are also my source for the Rebecca Atwood candles, my go-to hostess gift.

December Thieves – The owner of this shop was recently named by Boston magazine as the best shopkeeper in the city. Kuddos to Lana, whose locations in Beacon Hill and the South End are filled with curiosities, wears and whimsical jewelry. A shop not to be missed in Boston, for sure!

South End

Many would say that the South End is the heart of Boston, home to wonderful restaurants, cafe and unique shops. Lucky for me, our apartment is around the corner and thus I frequent these shops often!

Farm & Fable – An epicurean’s dream. Cookbooks, vintage cocktail glasses, Farmhouse Pottery from Vermont, oyster knives, and tea towel galore… My sweet friend Abby certainly has it all in her beautiful store on the corner of Shawmut and Milford Street.

Twelve Chairs – Just like I want my closet to look like Wish, I want my home to resemble Twelve Chairs. Housing both a retail space and design studio, their second floor location on Tremont should not be missed. From throw pillows to vintage lamps and artwork, there is always somethings to discover at Twelve Chairs.

Hudson Boston – My go-to shop for interior inspiration and wedding gifts.

Olives & Grace – “A curtsy to the makers” is what this little shop is all about. Handcrafted items and locally sourced food products, Olives & Grace is my go-to spot for that friend who has everything. It’s no wonder they were named as the best gift shop by Boston magazine. I’m a huge fan of the Boston coasters.

SAULT New England – This is my girl’s favorite shop in all of Boston.

Brookline

Just a short T-ride from downtown Boston on the Green Line is Coolidge Corner. My first “neighborhood” in Boston (technically I lived up the road in Washington Square but spent a great deal of time in CC) and one that I return to again and again.

Brookline Booksmith – Hands down my favorite bookstore. They now have a used section in their basement and offer a wonderful selection of discounted titles.

Mint Julep – A charming neighborhood spot featuring a wonderful selection of jeans and cute “going out” tops at a good price point.

North End

For a neighborhood typically known for food, the North End has a few shops not to be missed.

Shake the Tree – An eclectic shop featuring clothing, jewelry, housewares and accessories. It’s my local Anthropologie!

In-jean-ius & Twilight – In-jean-ius started with a simple mission: to help women find the perfect jean for their body type. It was only a matter of time till then expanded their offerings with Twilight, a store inspired by that magical time between day and night.

Cambridge/Somerville

And last but not least, my favorite shops across the river.

Pod – This tiny boutique resembles home to me. A beautiful collection of found objects for both the home and you. I’m in-love with their offering of Kerry Cassill pillowcases at the moment.

Loyal Supply Co. – Nestled in the heart of Union Square, Loyal Supply Co. is a design firm, retailer, and distributor of goods for the home, office, and studio, who lives by the motto “Supplies for Life.” I get more compliments on my key chain from them than anything else I carry.

Tune in tomorrow for My Boston list. Until then, have a wonderful Wednesday!