In desperate need of the perfect trinket for a housewarming? In dire straits trying to find the cutest baby gift for the couple who has everything? Just want a new dress for a cocktail party? No matter where you live, we’ve got you covered with a rundown of splurge-worthy boutiques in and around Denver. Consider it our gift to you.

CHERRY CREEK

5280 April 2013
More From The Issue

Bloom by Anuschka

Go here for: Tastefully eye-catching home accents to brighten up your space, charming housewarming gifts, and head-turning jewelry.

Editor’s pick: Brass and marble doggie bookends, $265.

The details: Owner Anuschka Pashel began her retail career in Denver as a florist more than 10 years ago. When business began to outgrow the space, she opened a retail storefront in 2011 and expanded her offerings to include eclectic, European-influenced home furnishings and accessories. Pashel’s selection of throw pillows is particularly lovely; she works with companies in India to find the unusual and exquisite versions that line her shelves. Although not exactly easy on the wallet, these unexpected conversation pieces are worth the price.

Bonus: Bloom’s floral services are still in demand; order an elegant potted succulent garden for someone special.

Find it: 2353 E. Third Ave., 720-941-2862, bloomdenver.com

Blu

Go here for: The hipster pair of jeans you’re not sure if you can pull off (you can!) and the perfect understated jersey top to mellow out your look-at-me denim.

Editor’s pick: Black-and-white, belted Adele coat by Pink Martini, $276.

The details: This is one store that totally gets the Denver shopper. The airy, natural space is lined with racks and tables of denim by Genetic, J Brand, and Joe’s—and we’re not just talking basic blues. If you’re secretly lusting after a pair of flower-embossed skinny jeans or maybe something with a zipper at the ankle to show off those new heels, you’ve found your place.

Tip: Ask the owners about their complimentary styling services if you’re shopping for a particular event.

Find it: 3201 E. Second Ave., 720-508-3600, bludenver.com
Firefly Furnishings

Go here for: Adorable baby shower gifts and pint-size interior design items to occupy your own nine-month journey.

Editor’s pick: “Unique Owl” stretched-canvas wall art by MaryJack Studios, $158.

The details: When your toddler is ready for a big-boy bed or you need to convert the home office into a nursery, Firefly is a veritable explosion of cute. The shop, which originally opened in Lowry and moved to Cherry Creek about four years ago, is staged to help you with ideas. Choose your furnishings à la carte, or pick a safari-animal theme and create an entire look for the baby’s room. Don’t leave without a Sozo romper (grab the giraffe version for maximum adorableness).

Bonus: See a line of furniture you like, but not the specific piece? Flip through the display catalogue and then order it through Firefly.

Find it: 2445 E. Third Ave., Unit 5, 303-333-4463, fireflyfurnishings.com

J. Gilbert Footwear

Go here for: Designer cowboy boots, ahead-of-the-trend wedges, and that vintage-inspired jacket you never knew you always wanted.

Editor’s pick: Distressed-leather, knee-high buckle boots by Liberty Black, $395.

The details: Western elegance meets shabby chic meets mountain rustic at this year-old purveyor of sophisticated boots and rich leather garments. Sift through the racks toward the back for that killer can’t-resist jacket.

Fun fact: The shop is one of the few that carries original Old Stud belts, which were once popular with the Rolling Stones and have now become collectors’ items.

Find it: 3003 E. Third Ave., 303-322-3280, jgilbertfootwear.com

Revampt

Go here for: Rustic-chic furnishings made of recycled and repurposed materials.

Editor’s pick: Glass-topped accent table made of recycled bicycle sprockets and a tire rim, $499.

The details: When owner Daniel Louis opened the shop more than two years ago, his goal was to go beyond “eco-goods” to showcase furniture and decor entirely constructed of previously existing materials. Translation: elegant wooden chests and dressers made of wood from buildings about to be demolished; dining room chairs constructed from recycled steel and old wine barrel staves; and glass jewelry crafted from used wine bottles. Every piece or display is clearly labeled with a card that explains its origins.

Make it your own: Most furniture can be customized with your choice of finish or color.

Find it: 2601 E. Third Ave., 720-536-5464, revamptgoods.com

CENTRAL

[Congress Park]

Wild Flowers

Go here for: Home and garden accessories for the bestie, mom, or sister who has everything—plus wonderfully snarky greeting cards.

Editor’s pick: Glass tea-light holders, $2.95 to $5.

The details: For 16 years, Wild Flowers’ sunny entryway has featured a Zen-like garden sanctuary of houseplants, trickling fountains, and terrariums. Plus, find a collection of tightly curated gift-ables: candles (we love the exquisite hand-poured Linnea’s Lights), whimsical jewelry, cookbooks, cute dish towels, and I-want-that-look furniture.

Discounted: The annual spring plant sale on Mother’s Day weekend is the place to get something special for mom.

Find it: 1201 Madison St., 303-333-4050, wildflowershome.com

[Congress Park]

Apothecary Tinctura

Go here for: Herbal care for the body, mind, and soul.

Editor’s pick: Lavender-chamomile sugar scrub by Deep Steep, $12.

The details: Walking into this shop can feel like a sensory overload—in a good way. Look through jars of herbs such as rose hips and elderberry to build a custom tea; create a concoction for a luxurious soak; or test skincare products by John Masters Organics. The Apothecary crew can also recommend a service (Mayan abdominal massage?) at the in-store spa and clinic.

Hands-on: From tea tastings to baby-food making, the shop has a class for it ($5­ to $30).

Find it: 2900 E. Sixth Ave., 303-399-1175, apothecarytinctura.com

[Congress Park]

Nest

Go here for: Trendy attire for the rug rats and gifts for mommies-to-be.

Editor’s pick: Water-repellent messenger bag by Petunia Pickle Bottom, $169.

The details: Owner Caroline Evascu, a mother herself, opened Nest to give young families in Congress Park a hip place to outfit their kids (think tiny puffy vests by Appaman and fuzzy-bear footed pajamas by Magnificent Baby).

Bonus: For $10, Nest will monogram just about anything (new purchases or your own items); allow a week.

Find it: 2808 E. Sixth Ave., 720-287-1372; 1408 Larimer St., Ste. 102, 303-534-1974, nestdenver.com
[Uptown]

Soul Haus: Attire & Accoutrement

Go here for: Cool yet understated wardrobe additions for men and women, vintage collectibles, and inspired tchotchkes.

Editor’s pick: Industrial-inspired necklace by local designer Crow Jane Jewelry, $42.

The details: Formerly two shops—Peppermint for the ladies and Soul Haus for the gents—the space in the EZE Mop building has merged into one family-owned haven of hipster duds and locally made jewelry for him and her (look for flirty dresses by Ryu and Giorginni shirts for guys). like what you see? Check out
Soul Haus’ charming sister shop, Pandora on the Hill, in Capitol Hill.

Find it: 1225 E. 17th Ave., 303-830-7685, soulhaus.com

[Uptown]

Talulah Jones

Go here for: Thoughtful gifts for your gal pals, cute ideas for your kids, and splurges for yourself.

Editor’s pick: “Full Moon Dream” scented candle that melts into a massage oil by Talulah, $20 (full size); $5 (travel size).

The details: Stocked with whimsical goodies like soft, patterned scarves by Subtle Luxury, journals with hand-painted covers and recycled paper, and creative toys for kids (we dig the design-your-own-superhero kit by Seedling), this shop is a lovely little afternoon escape.

Fun Fact: Talulah Jones is “Certified Green” by the city of Denver and by ReDirect Guide (the store runs on wind-powered electricity).

Find it: 1122 E. 17th Ave., 303-832-1230, talulahonline.com

[Capitol Hill]

Wax Trax Records

Go here for: Records, young and old, and a waft of that delicious old-LP smell; note the separate buildings—and addresses—for vinyl and CDs.

Editor’s pick: The Beatles collectible LPs behind the counter, prices vary.

The details: Have some time to kill? Get lost in vinyl, CDs, and obscure 45s, and don’t overlook the sectioned-off collectibles, like an original pressing of Bob Dylan’s Bringing It All Back Home, stowed behind the counter and high on the walls.

Time to sell: Unload your old vinyl and CDs—and pick up some new favorites—any time.

Find it: 620 E. 13th Ave., 303-860-0127 (vinyl store); 638 E. 13th Ave., 303-831-7246 (CD store); waxtraxrecords.com

GET OUTSIDE

Tucked against the foothills next to Clear Creek, Golden is the perfect place to drop some cash to enhance your active lifestyle.

Head to Bent Gate Mountaineering for an extensive selection of high-end, technical rock- and ice-climbing gear, such as harnesses, ropes, and carabineers. Tip: Someone on the knowledgeable staff has probably climbed that route you’ve been thinking about tackling. Hit them up for advice.
1313 Washington Ave., Golden, 303-271-9382, bentgate.com

Whether you’re a recreational rider or a professional racer, the no-nonsense team at the full-service Peak Cycles bike shop can help you with, well…anything. If you’re looking for a new ride, we recommend the solid selection of Specialized and Giant bikes.
1224 Washington Ave., #145, Golden, 303-216-1616, bikeparts.com

Outdoor apparel ain’t cheap. Your best bet: Scan the sale racks at Vital Outdoors to score deals on jackets, T-shirts, and footwear from top outdoor brands such as the North Face, Patagonia, and Ibex.
1224 Washington Ave., #125, Golden, 303-215-1644, vitaloutdoors.com

Two blocks north of Clear Creek, Golden River Sports is a great place to get your next fly-fishing or kayaking adventure started. Beginners can sign up for kayak lessons or guided fly-fishing trips, and the not-so-novice crowd will dig the impressive selection of boats and fly rods.
806 Washington Ave., Golden, 303-215-9386, goldenriversports.net

DOWNTOWN

[Denver Pavilions]

I Heart Denver Store
Go here for: Casual, artsy pieces that add a touch of Colorado to your home or wardrobe.

Editor’s pick: Six Scrabble-inspired pillows that spell out “Denver,” $130 for the set.

The details: As Colorado’s artistic community continues to boom, this shop has become a must-visit showcase for out-of-towners and residents. Originally a pop-up, the permanent space now highlights more than 130 artists and designers. Every piece—from home furnishings to clothing to art—is designed and/or created by a Colorado artist.

Good to know: Seventy percent of your purchase goes directly to the artist or designer.

Find it: 500 16th St., #264, 720-317-2328, iheartdenver.info

[LoDo]

EVOO Marketplace

Go here for: Upmarket olive oils and balsamic vinegars to elevate your dinner parties.

Editor’s pick: Tuscan herb organic olive oil from Italy, $17.50 (12.7 ounces).

The details: Husband-and-wife duo Mick and Carolyn Major opened EVOO in 2009 to offer
a taste-before-you-buy shop that educates home cooks and allows you to sample from more than 50 fresh oils and vinegars from around the world.

Bonus: EVOO makes it easy to use your new purchase with dozens of online recipes for salad dressings, marinades, and desserts (cinnamon pear scones, anyone?).

Find it: 1338 15th St., 303-974-5784; 2660 Main St., Littleton, 720-328-4783, evoomarketplace.com 

[Larimer Square]

Moda Man

Go here for: Classic, well-fitted suits and shirts for the office.

Editor’s pick: Custom-made dress shirts, starting at $195.

The details: A fashion-conscious guy looking for something polished but not over-the-top pricey will find exactly what he’s looking for in everyday pieces like Ross Graison sport coats, Stone Rose button-downs, and Alberto trousers.

Customize it: Can’t find your size? The Moda Man team can head to your home or office to measure you for custom-fitted suits in the colors and fabrics of your choice.

Find it: 1459 Larimer St., 303-862-5949, modaman.com

[Larimer Square]

Element

Go here for: Swanky furniture and decor with a creative, contemporary twist.

Editor’s pick: Jutta Golas ceramic and iron tree, $4,400.

The details: Whether you need new chairs for your dining room table or a sleek bedroom set, your inner designer will rejoice as soon as you enter Element. For nine years, the appealingly cluttered store has provided a collection of pieces that range from classic to modern in style and will update your home with an artistic finish.

Ask an expert: Element offers amenities that help you finally get those home design projects done, such as hour-long comprehensive consultations and design services to connect you with contractors.

Find it: 1426 Larimer St., 303-825-3770, element-home.com

[Larimer Square]

Eve

Go here for: Trendy frocks and accessories for a weekend cocktail party.

Editor’s pick: Hobo leather clutch, $165 and up.

The details: German-born owner Sabine Rocho’s women’s boutique has an upscale vibe with its chic European lines and fashion-forward designs. Browse the well-spaced racks for a variety of denim, chunky beaded necklaces, clutches, and dresses (keep in mind the shop only carries sizes 0 to 8). But act fast if you like something: Stock changes two or three times a week.

Bonus: During a sale, every item in the store is discounted.

Find it: 1413 Larimer St., 720-932-9382, eveinc.net

[Larimer Square]

Equipement de Vin

Go here for: A quirky but suitable gift for your favorite wino’s housewarming party.

Editor’s pick: The buy-six-get-eight deal on Riedel tumblers, $75 to $90.

The details: Owner and executive sommelier Cheryl Webster runs this wine-lover’s paradise, stocked with glasses, cheese boards, corkscrews, linens, and more. The knowledgeable staff will make even wannabe winos feel at home; ask them about starting your own wine cellar.

All-inclusive: Beer geeks and whiskey lovers, don’t despair: There’s glassware here for your tastes, too.

Find it: 1412 Larimer St., 720-946-3287

SPECIALTY SPENDING

Got a crafty bent or a little-known hobby? Find your happy place in Olde Town Arvada.

For the musician

Take your pick of the guitars, mandolins, and banjos, plus an array of handy accessories (instrument straps, tone bars, bridge pins), at Olde Town Pickin’ Parlor—and, if necessary, come back for the on-site repair shop.
7515 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 303-421-2304, picknparlor.com
For the jewelry maker

Arvada Bead Connection supplies crafters with beads of all sizes and shapes, pendants, strings of pearls, beading wire, and tools to create handcrafted necklaces, earrings, key chains, and more.
5771 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada, 303-422-6410, arvadabeadconnection.com

For the knitter
Pop into the cozy Knit Knack for all things yarn. Find skein after skein of alpaca, hand-dyed merino, and washable wool, plus plenty of patterns, needles, buttons, and—our favorite—ready-to-buy sock monkeys.
7505 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 303-456-2021, knitknack.org

For the fisherman
Charlie’s Fly Box is the go-to source for any river junkie. Flies, gear, packs, waders, lines, rods, you name it—they’ve got it (along with the customer service and fly-tying classes to take you to the next level on the water).
7513  Grandview Ave., Arvada, 303-403-8880, charliesflyboxinc.com

For the antiquer

The Art Peddler is jam-packed, wall-to-wall, with displays piled in seemingly haphazard fashion. But treasure hunters will lose themselves in vintage globes, old-fashioned typewriters, old-school records, and kitschy memorabilia. 5740 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada, 303-940-0700

NORTHWEST

[LoHi]

Reverie Living

Go here for: Special occasion gifts (new house, new baby, new job) without the boutique prices.

Editor’s pick: Make My Notebook blank journal by local artist Sara Blette, $15.

The details: This six-month-old shop is designed for both the aimless wanderer and the chronic gift-giver. Look for reasonably priced jewelry from Boulder-based Alison Blair Studio and Paddywax candles for the girly girls, and let the Colorado-spun style suck you in with an Alchemy Goods belt made from recycled bicycle tubes or a Spudski (a potato masher with a ski pole handle).

Bonus: Drop in for monthly happy hours to mingle and imbibe. Check dates online.

Find it: 1671 Central St., 720-524-3085, reverieliving.com

[Riverfront]

GoLite

Go here for: High-tech, low-weight outdoor gear with a slashed price tag.

Editor’s pick: Demaree Canyon 800-fill down jacket, $99.99.

The details: Based in Boulder, this outpost opened a year ago in Denver’s Riverfront ’hood. The idea: When you’re packing light for the backcountry, sometimes your backpack itself is the weight problem. Enter GoLite and its feather-light apparel, sleeping bags, and, of course, backpacks.

Fun fact: Items here are typically at least 40 percent off what you’d find for similar gear at other retailers. Why? You can only buy GoLite products directly through the company’s shops—so no extra markup.

Find it: 1535 Platte St., 303-477-0547, golite.com

[LoHi]

Inspyre Boutique

Go here for: A just-sexy-enough dress for date night.

Editor’s pick: Priscilla sheer-sleeve top, $36.

The details: Twenty- and thirtysomethings will feel at home here—every item is under $100—and they’ll appreciate the one-stop-shop vibe: Love that navy blue mullet dress? A five-minute scan will get you a belt, blazer, and chunky beaded necklace to finish the look.

Eco-cred: We love the shelves, tables, and garment racks made of beetle-kill pine. Ride your bike in? Ask about the two-wheeled customer discounts.

Find it: 2021 W. 32nd Ave., 303-718-2645, inspyreboutique.com

[Highlands Square]

Starlet

Go here for: Inexpensive, trendy women’s attire for happy hour or a couples’ night out.

Editor’s pick: Pastel, floral-print wraparound headband, $13.

The details: This bargain clothing and accessories boutique has become a Denver staple after eight years with statement jewelry, smart purses, and modish dresses that mix well with classics. Stop in each season to snag a few wardrobe updates without blowing your whole paycheck.

Fun fact: Founder Kristi Walstra attended the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles, which is where she sources most of her inventory.

Find it: 3450 W. 32nd Ave., 303-433-7827; 26 Broadway, 720-389-6051, shopstarlet.com

[Highlands Square]

32nd West

Go here for: Après-ski wear for the whole family.

Editor’s pick: White True Grit lace-trimmed fur vest, $104.

The details: A well-curated array of mountain-smart jackets, sporty tops, and extras from familiar brands (Prana, Teva, and Patagonia) fills this converted Victorian house. Don’t see your size? The staff can check sister store Boone Mountain Sports in Evergreen or place a special order.

Bonus: Head to the backyard for great clearance deals on last season’s holdovers.

Find it: 3719 W. 32nd Ave., 303-728-9002, 32ndwest.com

[Tennyson Street]

Jolly Goods

Go here for: Funky-cool gifts for any occasion or your own retail therapy.

Editor’s pick: Bicycle hand-screen-printed pint glasses from Vital Industries, $10 each.

The details: Husband-and-wife team Simon and Nicole Wolsey-Neech provide an eclectic medley of handmade, antique, and trendy home decor and knickknacks, plus a small selection of clothing. We can’t resist the dog collars made from retro fabrics.

Don’t miss: Stop by on First Fridays to meet some of the store’s artists and sellers.

Find it: 4020 Tennyson St., 720-596-4732, jollygoodsdenver.blogspot.com

New Kids on the Block

Fresh retail near Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall.

Fabricate

Housed in a small brick cottage, this year-old sewing workshop and retail space is brimming with character, craft kits, and color. Creative types will swoon over the dynamic mix of unapologetically fun prints and designs from Joel Dewberry of FreeSpirit or Maude Asbury of Blend Fabrics. Crafty type? Quilting and sewing lessons start at $25. 2023 17th St., Boulder, 303-997-8245, fabricateboulder.com

Retail Therapy

The perfect last-minute stop for going-out attire, this women’s boutique offers cute, versatile basics at guilt-free prices ($28 tops? $60 dresses? Yes, please!). Bonus discovery: the rear-of-the-store hairstyling bar. Make an appointment Tuesday through Saturday for a blowout or updo before your special occasion.
1638 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-442-0682; 510 Elk Ave., Crested Butte, 970-349-6824, retailtherapyco.com

PosterScene

The shop’s move last summer from Boulder’s Hill to east Pearl Street proves that concert bills have a home beyond the dorms. The sophisticated graphic selection of new and vintage prints—including classics like the Allman Brothers Band and the Beach Boys—emphasize Colorado venues. Prices range from $6 to more than $3,000 (!) for rare finds. 1505 Pearl St., Ste. 101, Boulder, 303-527-2701, posterscene.com

Nod & Rose Storehouse

This five-month-old boho-chic boutique is stocked with a varied selection of approachably hip and reasonably priced garments for guys and gals, including denim, dresses, and sparkly accessories. Husband-and-wife owners Nod Norkus and Elizabeth Rose run the store with a Southern hospitality borne out of their North Carolina roots. 1220 Spruce St., Boulder, 303-442-2322, nodandrose.com

SOUTH

[Old South Gaylord Street]

Gnome’s Nook Confectioners

Go here for: A mash-up of childlike delights (old-fashioned candy, children’s books) and a menagerie of gnome-related collectibles like wool hats, pointy-toed shoes, and candles.

Editor’s pick: A pair of hilarious gnome magnetic salt and pepper shakers (bare behinds showing), $16.

The details: As a father, co-owner Steve Hostettler says he believes our high-tech society is stealing our kids’ abilities to be imaginative. So he opened a place in 2011 that, as he puts it, “celebrates the wonder.”

Party time: The Nook hosts festive children’s workshops and birthday parties in the Gnome’s Woods, an outdoor area adjacent to the store.

Find it: 1078 Old S. Gaylord St., 303-997-7103, gnomesnookcandies.com

[Old South Gaylord Street]

Trout’s American Sportswear

Go here for: Menswear that ranges from outdoorsy to dressy to sporty, including Tommy Bahama, Kühl, Patagonia, and Scott Barber.

Editor’s pick: A Barn Fly button-down festooned with…you guessed it…trout, $92.

The details: For nearly 23 years, Jim Park has been outfitting Denver’s sharp-dressed men in apparel a bit more interesting than the norm. When it comes to merchandising, “I buy what I like,” Park says, “but I’ve also been here long enough to know what my customers are looking for.”

FYI: Park used to own a fly shop on Old South Gaylord, which he sold in 2001. The new owner moved it to Sixth Avenue but kept the Trout’s name.

Find it: 1077 Old S. Gaylord St., 303-733-3983, trouts.net

[Platt Park]

Dinea Boutique & Design

Go here for: Gorgeous women’s apparel—work clothes, cocktail dresses, flirty-but-casual tops—from high-end designers.

Editor’s pick: A sleeveless but not-too-revealing Trina Turk cocktail dress, $348.

The details: Owner Edina Brkic has an unmistakably European sense of style (she moved to Denver from Germany just 12 years ago). She has a knack for pulling garments—upscale lines from New York or Italy—that will flatter your figure.

Heads up: Dinea’s summer collection began rolling in last month.

Find it: 2090 S. Grant St., 303-722-0171, dineaboutiqueanddesign.com

[Old South Pearl Street]

Sand Dollar Gallery

Go here for: Watercolors, pastels, pottery, jewelry, hand-blown glass, and quilted cards.

Editor’s pick: Grand Mesa Farm, an original, framed watercolor painting by the late William Condit, $275.

The details: Although you may not know master watercolorist William Condit’s name, you definitely know his work—at least, one particular work. In 1945, Condit opened Denver’s first graphic art studio and ultimately crafted the original green and white mountain design that graces Colorado’s license plates. Today, Condit’s daughter Nancy, a remarkable watercolorist and porcelain artist herself, runs the gallery.

Sign up: Nancy leads painting workshops year-round in the yard outside the shop.

Find it: 1256 S. Pearl St., 303-871-8028, sanddollargallerydenver.com

[Old South Pearl Street]

5 Green Boxes (The Big Store)

Go here for: Eclectic home wares, from furniture and picture frames to coffee-table books, candles, and area rugs.

Editor’s pick: A pair of distressed country French end tables, $89 to $289.

The details: This charming store has moved locations a
few times, but today, owner Charlotte Elich keeps the girly apparel merchandise in her Little Store (1596 S. Pearl St.) and her home and gift goods at the Big Store, just a short walk away.

FYI: If you own a piece in need of an artistic upgrade, you can commission Elich and her staff to revitalize it.

Find it: 1570 S. Pearl St., 303-777-2331, 5greenboxes.com

[South Broadway]

Sewn

Go here for: Hand-stitched skirts, dresses, and sweaters.

Editor’s pick: A One of a Kinds Limited Lines beige raincoat lined with a bright yellow, patterned fabric, $158 to $168.

The details: Business partners Jil Cappuccio and Kirsten Coplans opened this niche shop a little more than a year ago. Both women sew prolifically and supply the store with more than half of its inventory.
Girly girls: Look for gorgeous skirts by Lelé, $125 to $300.

Find it: 18 S. Broadway, 303-832-1493, sewndenver.com

[South Broadway]

Decade

Go here for: Almost anything, from vintage furniture to high-end soaps, scarves, and clothes.

Editor’s pick: A pair of laser-cut wood earrings from Colorado-based Willow jewelry, $14 to $16.

The details: After 15 years in business, owner Kristen Tait knows that coats by Darling are always in; local artisans make the loveliest jewelry and shower gifts; and there’s nothing better than coming in for a cocktail dress and leaving with a shabby-chic vase.

Don’t miss: Decade is one of the few places that we know always carries Angel Dear blankets—cashmere-soft lovies we count on as go-to baby shower gifts.

Find it: 56 S. Broadway, 303-733-2288

[South Broadway]

Fancy Tiger Clothing

Go here for: Ultra-hip men’s and women’s clothing you can’t really find anywhere else.

Editor’s pick: A beige and black A-line dress with cap sleeves by Nooworks, $138.

The details: Husband-and-wife team Matthew Brown and Jaime Jennings opened Fancy Tiger as a
multiuse space in 2006. Their twofold mission: to bring timeless yet modern clothing lines to Denver and to provide a spot where the fiber arts could flourish. Today, the store touts an impressively loyal following.

Get creative: Fancy Tiger’s artsy half, the craft store, is next door to the boutique. Stop in for yarn and fabrics or sign up for a quilting or crocheting class.

Find it: 55 Broadway, 303-282-6590, fancytiger.com

[South Broadway]

Hazel & Dewey

Go here for: Home goods and kitchenware that feel special, like professional-grade coffee carafes, patterned wood cutting boards, and pretty table linens.

Editor’s picks: Brightly colored ceramic bowls and mugs by ShannaRama, $15 to $65, and tea towels by Nell & Mary, $24.

The details: Nearly two years ago, owner Jenna Miles used her culinary and arts backgrounds to open this soulful little store named after her great-great-aunts. Miles says she keeps a keen eye out for local artisans who are producing the kinds of items Hazel and Dewey might have loved. (Tip: The shop also
has a gift registry.)

Brush up: Miles launched her kitchen skills workshops in March, which teach basic techniques such as knife work, making simple salad dressings, and serving cheese.

Find it: 70 S. Broadway, 303-777-1500, hazel-dewey.com

Occasional Wear

Every girl needs a few sassy staples for a packed social calendar. If your shopping radius is south of the city, look no farther than Greenwood Village.

The shop: Moxie

Your purchase: A combo of layerables—think fitted tanks and a military-inspired blazer—for a put-together work-to-evening look. 5936 S. Holly St., Greenwood Village, 303-694-0773, moxieinstyle.com

The shop: A.Line Boutique

Your purchase: A statement-making Issa party dress that easily transfers from a work event to a cocktail affair. 5375 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village, 303-773-8200, aline-online.com

The shop: Delish Demure

Your purchase: A breezy, sheer print by Analili to stun onlookers at your next warm-weather soiree. 8000 E. Belleview Ave., Ste. D10, Greenwood Village, 303-740-1100, delishdemure.com

The shop: Rebel

Your purchase: A classic and versatile little black dress, glammed up with subtle embellishment, by Bailey44. 5910 S. University Blvd., Greenwood Village, 720-283-1004, shoprebel.com

EAST

[Stapleton]

Naturally Loved

Go here for: Environmentally friendly baby supplies for the eco-conscious parent.

Editor’s pick: Size-adjustable cloth diapers from Rocky Mountain Diapers in Colorado Springs, $19.99 each.

The details: Former elementary school art teacher Alyson Warren opened this shop after having her first child and realizing how much waste a quickly growing baby can create. The store’s high-quality toys, onesies, and baby carriers aren’t inexpensive, but they can be reused for generations.

Sign up: Workshops—on topics as varied as breastfeeding, infant massage, nursery decor, and “Baby and Me” yoga—are hosted at the store.

Find it: 7349 E. 29th Ave., 303-955-6207, naturallylovedbaby.com

[Lowry]

Kismet

Go here for: A just-right gift for that friend with discriminating taste.

Editor’s pick: Single buck Tano Chicklit wallet in sunshine yellow, $103.

The details: For seven years, Shana Colbin Dunn has been filling her shelves with gorgeous leather handbags, weathered-cool jewelry (we covet the delicate semiprecious rings from Brooklyn designer Emily Amey), and sassy scarves to complete any outfit.

In the know: Like Kismet on Facebook and get a first look at new arrivals.

Find it: Lowry Town Center, 200 Quebec St., Bldg 500, Unit 101, 303-366-0513;
3640 W. 32nd. Ave., 303-477-3378; Streets at Southglenn, 2154 E. Commons Ave.,? Centennial,? 720-335-6496, kismetaccessories.com

Mall Rats
Our under-the-radar picks for Park Meadows (and beyond).

Be Radiant

Local Charm

Look for handcrafted, limited-edition pieces (like Criffin Designs’ earrings made from reclaimed World War II aircraft parts). Every piece has a colored sticker that corresponds to price guides posted around the store.

Buy this: Antique Button Collection necklace, $80 to $200. 8405 Park Meadows Center Drive, #1053, Lone Tree, 303-708-8554, localcharm.net

Feel Pretty

Pampered  Passions Fine Lingerie

Visit this strip-mall spot across from Park Meadows Mall for a quick fitting and a bustier for that strapless number.

Bonus: The staff specializes in fitting breast cancer patients.

Buy this: Cosabella black teddy and thong, $142.99.

9615 E. County Line Road, Ste. D, Centennial, 303-346-8450, pamperedpassions.com

Tee Off

Golf Galaxy

Swing by (pun intended) for clubs, attire, gadgets to help improve your game, and the in-house repair shop.

Gift idea: custom club fitting.

Buy this: Callaway Diablo Octane Rangefinder, $299.99.
8222 S. Yosemite St., Ste. 100, Centennial, 720-225-0984; 10460 Town Center Drive, Ste. 100, Westminster, 303-952-5571, golfgalaxy.com

Get Comfortable

Athleta

This Gap Inc. offshoot tops our list for women’s workout wear because of its function-meets-style designs organized by activity (hiking, endurance, yoga).

Return policy: no expiration date, no questions asked.

Buy this: Tic Tac Toe capri, $69.

8505 Park Meadows Center Drive, Ste. 2184, Lone Tree, 303-708-8504; 3000 E. First Ave., 303-377-1934; 1133 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-443-9237, athleta.com

5280.com Exclusive:

SURPRISE SUBURB FINDS

Lafayette

Looking for something a tad more rustic than what’s in the windows at the boutique on the corner? The 20,000 square-foot Lafayette Collectibles & Flea Market is sure to turn up an interesting purchase—or three. A leisurely lap of more than 140 unmanned vendor booths reveals an abundance of must-buys: a belt buckle holding a real scorpion, vintage steamer trunks, refurbished dressers, and a wealth of mismatched china. At the market’s outdoor garage sale (every second Saturday and third Sunday during the summer), anyone can pony up $10 to set up shop in the parking lot and hawk his or her own goods.

130 E. Spaulding St., Lafayette, 303-655-0433

Belmar

Tucked inside the big-box mecca of Lakewood’s Belmar Shopping Center—behind the Target, Best Buy, and Dick’s Sporting Goods—is Colorful Colorado, a two-room, independently owned stronghold dedicated to fulfilling your lust for everything local. The two-year-old shop is stocked with goods and wares by more than 150 Colorado artisans, from paintings of the Centennial State’s beloved aspen trees and knit Colorado-flag baby hats to honey from Durango’s Honeyville company and birdhouses made of corks from Colorado wineries. On our gift list: The $50 pinewood, fly-fishing lure boxes (bonus: they float) hand-crafted by Lakewood woodworker McGuire Scroggins.
 

7170 W. Alaska Dr., Lakewood, 303-934-2220, colorful-colorado.com