Looking for a new boutique? Check out Denver’s “20 Best New Boutiques.”

The last two years have dotted Denver with new stationery stores, clothing boutiques, and accessory shops, making shopping in the city that much more varied—and fun. But amid the buzz of just-opened stores, several classic shops should also be celebrated. These memorable Denver stores, in ‘hoods throughout the city, constantly impress with their hip and stylish goods.

5280 November 2008
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The Perfect Petal | West Highland
3600 W. 32nd Ave., 303-480-0966, www.theperfectpetal.com
Where else can you get home decor, kids’ toys, cocktail rings, greeting cards, cookbooks, handbags, beauty products, and dazzling floral arrangements in one place?
The Buy: Locally made, hand-blown, recycled-glass hummingbird feeder by Parasol, $44

Blush | Cherry Creek and Downtown
222 Steele St., 303-399-7779; 1717 Champa St., 303-292-2245; www.blushthestore.com
With a simple and carefully selected collection, this multiple-outlet boutique makes shopping for both a stylish party dress and a lounge-y tracksuit a one-stop deal.
The Buy: Kelly green silk and crocheted flowing top by Catherine Malandrino, $365

Loft.22 | Larimer Square
1410 Larimer St., 303-893-5010, www.loft-22.com
The merchandise (think clothing, jewelry, shoes, and home accessories) is well edited and sophisticated, while maintaining an airy Santa Monica vibe.
The Buy: Wide silver lace-patterned bracelets by Sergio Gutierrez, Liquid Metal Collection, $80

Cira Ltd | 16th Street Mall
500 16th St., #160, 720-359-8453
The fashion here is different—in the head-turning, where-did-you-get-that kind of way—but it won’t break the bank.
The Buy: Gladiator-style straw-wedge sandals that lace halfway up the calf by Groove, $34.95

5 Green Boxes: Big Store | Old South Pearl
1705 S. Pearl St., 303-282-5481, www.5greenboxes.com
Hands down, this is the go-to place for keepsakes and housewares that are at once tasteful, nostalgic, and exotic.
The Buy: Hand painted, shabby-chic one-of-a-kind jewelry chest by 5 Green Boxes Productions, $250-295

Sarah | Old South Gaylord
1067 S. Gaylord St., 303-482-2299, www.sarah-denver.com
The (celebrity-size) closet of our dreams would be full of this shops’ Ollie Sang jackets; classy, tailored Raven Denim jeans; and Hale Bob printed silk tops.
The Buy: Hip-length brown leather military-style bomber with satin lining by Dick & Jayne, $415

Decade | South Broadway
56 S. Broadway, 303-733-2288
Even if you’re “just looking,” it’s impossible to leave this creatively stocked store, full of gift-worthy accessories, lingerie, novelty books, and home decor trinkets without a purchase.
The Buy: Two’s Company vintage flowered apron, $24-$28

Red Door Swingin’ | Highland
2556 15th St., 303-433-6900, www.reddoorswingin.com
The cheerily cluttered store oozes bright colors and a modern funkiness that renders shopping here full of discoveries.
The Buy: Mosaic melamine heat-resistant serving spoons (set of two) by French Bull, $14

Ella Bleu | Lowry and Landmark
200 Quebec St., Denver; 5425 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village; 720-859-3111; www.ellableuboutique.com
This place is a no-fail option for a flirty frock, cozy cashmere sweater, or go-to pair of designer jeans. Plus, yummy home and beauty goodies, and, at the Landmark location, super-sweet baby clothes.
The Buy: Ella Bleu Herbes de Provence soap, $10

Chelsea | Boulder
935 Pearl St., 303-447-3760, Boulder, www.chelseabella.com
Boulderites love that high fashion and hard-to-find lines don’t require a 45-minute trek to Denver.
The Buy: Kai Eau de Parfum, a delicate gardenia-esque scent, $72