A new season means it’s time for a wardrobe refresh. Closet space is precious. What pieces can you choose that are trendy and simultaneously built to last? We talked to four Berks boutique owners to help you make thoughtful decisions about choosing new pieces that work in harmony and enhance your style.
Bella Jules Fashion Boutique
“Bella Jules’ style is classics with a twist,” says Juli Cleaver, owner. Located in West Reading, Bella Jules has been providing customers with the latest styles since 2005. “From casual chic daywear and accessories to elegant formal dresses, we provide an ever-evolving, hand-picked collection of fashion. We offer a range of styles and price points and bring in new merchandise weekly to give our customers a fresh look at every visit.” Cleaver enjoys scouting around the country with her eye on the latest trends. “Several times a year I travel to New York, Los Angeles and Atlanta to find boutique brands so customers have a unique look.”
For this fall and winter, it’s time to mix things up a bit. “Customers are looking for different styles that aren’t in their closets,” says Cleaver. “They want pieces that they can wear multiple times and in different ways. Jackets and outerwear are important silhouettes.” Perfect for cooler weather, these pieces can be layered to create different looks.
“Look for animal prints, camo, plaids, faux fur and leathers done in new ways for fall,” says Cleaver. For a professional look, she recommends this chic ensemble. A front knot adds an intriguing twist to this classic button-down with gray stripes. The shirt pairs perfectly with black skinny jeans. Accessorize with this striking handmade necklace. Bold, textured silver links form the chain and are topped with three charms of luminescent pearl. Complete the look with a black faux snakeskin tote. This roomy bag has a sleek exterior and is an ideal carry-all for the office.
When adding to your wardrobe, “invest in pieces that you love and that make you feel good wearing them,” advises Cleaver. “Your closet should be a mix of classics and some fun trends of the season. If it’s a ‘wow,’ buy it!”
Sen Singapore striped button-down shirt with front knot, $159; Just Black denim black stretch skinny jeans, $89; Virtue handmade silver and pearl necklace, $85; Joia black faux snakeskin tote, $69. Bella Jules, 700 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.208.0600. bellajulesboutique.com
Charlotte Shoppe
“A woman's style is unique and usually evolves over time,” says Lisa Balaci, owner of the Charlotte Shoppe. Located in Sinking Spring, this boutique is named for Balaci’s maternal grandmother, Charlotte. “Since 2005, Charlotte Shoppe has catered to women who are on the move.”
Balaci describes her store as a “head-to-toe concept shop.” She and her staff are always on hand to help visitors explore their personal styles. “Our customers sometimes seek answers about the current trends, advice on pairing a dress shoe and a clutch for a momentous occasion, or simply treating themselves to a fun piece of jewelry.”
Charlotte Shoppe offers a carefully curated inventory. “We're always looking to keep our customers on-trend with a variety of price points,” says Balaci. “Fashions from Joseph Ribkoff, Eileen Fisher, Habitat and Uno de50 are just a few lines available.”
“Customers can find a variety of fashions ranging from classic to sophisticated and even whimsical. Above all, when we're helping our customers, we stress the importance of comfort and fit,” says Balaci.
For this fall, Balaci recommends leopard and plaid prints. “A woman could simply accessorize using these trendy prints or go all-out, purchasing a dress or even an overcoat.” This stunning leopard-print wrap dress will turn heads day or night. The bold pattern is a rich blend of blacks, light browns and creams. Pair with these strappy, pointed-toe pumps. Accessorize the look with this eye-catching gold filigree cuff bracelet and black pendant necklace. Finish the ensemble with this elegant purse, perfect for storing your essentials. The strap is accented by a sweeping black tassel.
When updating your wardrobe, explore new possibilities. “We encourage women to have fun with fashion,” Balaci says. “Go out of your comfort zone and try something new. Something very small can make a difference in how good one feels that day.”
Joseph Ribkoff leopard print wrap dress, $202; Hobo “Nash” handbag, $148; Pelle Moda “Keys” pumps, $150; Kendra Scott “Elisa” necklace, $50; Kendra Scott “Candice” cuff bracelet, $75. Charlotte Shoppe, 4600 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring, 610.678.4800. charlotteshoppe.com
frock
“Vintage is here to stay,” says Susan Golembiski, owner of frock. She notes that fashion has taken a turn towards being more socially conscious. “Here at frock, I am happily whipping out not-so-fast fashion, providing my customers with quality, one-of-a-kind pieces with a light carbon footprint.”
Friday through Sunday, Zach Lee from Jag Vintage is in-store at frock, offering insights and expertise. “Jag is located in frock. Vintage pieces, redone (frocked-up) pieces, and Susan’s own designs are on fire right now, too. You must really come in to get the vibe,” says Lee.
“I’d describe our shop style as inclusive. I think we’ve done well at creating a welcoming vibe with a twist of fashion adventure. We’re all about style but try to never be snobbish about it,” Lee adds. For a men’s ensemble with a vintage twist, Lee celebrates the resurgence of 1990s fashion trends with authentic pieces from the decade. A 1999 concert tee pairs seamlessly with 1990s Tommy Hilfiger windbreaker pants. Top it off with this frocked-up work jacket. Red pops of color abound, from the quilted lining to buttons and a red patch. Casual and comfortable, this look is perfect for walking around town on a cool fall day. Accessorize with an early 2000s snapback hat and some present-day Levi’s denim kicks.
“I think my customers are looking for unique clothing and accessories, period. There are fads that may come and go and come again, like fanny packs and over-sized sunglasses. But a lot of people are searching for one-of-a-kind and custom accessories…handmade jewelry, recycled hats, redone tops and bottoms. Modified fashion is everything this year!” Lee says.
When it comes to choosing pieces, Lee keeps it simple. “I have one piece of advice and one piece only: Wear what you want to wear!”
Frocked-up Custom Levi’s patchwork jacket, $69; 1999 Cher Believe Tour t-shirt, $45; Men's 1990s Tommy Hilfiger windbreaker pants, $35; 2000s Notre Dame snapback hat, $18; Contemporary Levi’s denim sneakers, $40. frock, 612 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.372.9935. frockonpenn.com
Serenity Boutique
“We bring our shop to life with versatility and comfort in mind. Our collection will have you turning heads; we promise!” says Trudy Trumbore, owner of Serenity Boutique. Located in West Lawn, Serenity opened in August 2018. “Whether you need an outfit for the office, a weekend getaway, or even a gift, we have you covered from head to toe.”
It is important to Trumbore that her boutique’s styles fit everyone. “We realize that many shops focus on petite women OR plus sizes. We are proud to offer clothing from size S to 3XL. We are always working on bringing in items made by other small businesses (our tie-dye tees and flannels, leather earrings, bath products) as well as charity-driven items like Pura Vida bracelets.”
According to Trumbore, one of the hottest trends for fall is “all things uniquely and tastefully distressed.” This well-loved look is available in “everything from distressed denim to bleached ombré tie-dye flannels, tees and more.” Made to appear like it’s been in your wardrobe for years, “each item is in turn unique — no two alike — and our customers LOVE that! These items are insanely soft and comfortable, which is an added perk!”
These relaxed fit jeans are the perfect blend of casual and chic. Fades and rips contribute to the look of clothing with a history. Pair with this soft graphic tee. The green jewel tone offers a splash of color, and the words “let kindness ripple” provide a meaningful message. Stay warm on breezy days by layering with a tie dye flannel, featuring a gradient of dark to light color. Accessorize with Blowfish canvas sneakers for a cool, relaxed vibe.
“You can be fully on-trend (at an affordable price) while remaining as comfortable as ever,” emphasizes Trumbore. “Layers, simple accessories and comfortable-yet-cute shoes will complete your outfit in a cinch.”
Let Kindness Ripple ombré t-shirt, $30; Relaxed fit distressed jeans, $45; Tie dye flannel, $39; Blowfish canvas sneakers, $42. Serenity Boutique, 2221 Penn Avenue, Ste. 2, West Lawn, 610.741.4110. serenitybtq.com
