Another bright sunny day deserves a stroll—and we've picked the charming city of Rockford for our shopping fix. It's too easy to be tempted by restaurants promising gourmet goodies, ice cream shops with a sugary perfume, and a winery where you can fill up growlers with homemade root beer. There are all sorts of interesting little storefronts that make this area the perfect day trip.
LBD EXCHANGE is a designer-label, women's clothing and accessories consignment boutique specializing in high-end finds, with purses from Coach, Louis Vuitton and Dooney & Bourke. Look for Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, BCBG, and other lines.
Let's talk about the store's namesake collection of little black dresses, from cocktail cool to everyday frocks.
BOW DACIOUS DESIGNS is appropriately named. Striking pieces, gifts, jewelry, scarves, tops, and slippers mingle among housewares such as pillows, glassware, and cute kitchen towels. Shop local with thirty to forty lines made in Michigan or the USA.
Let's talk about the local Whirly Girls line of eyeglass cases, cell phone cases, bracelets, and head wraps made from men's neckties.
RIGHT AT HOME has home accents to make you feel like the queen of the castle. From artwork, candles, and throw blankets, to charming accent chairs, you can really feather your nest in fabulousness. The shop anticipates a grand reopening by October—with new inventory—so stop in.
Let's talk about the adorable accent pillows with fun pom trim. Those were some conversation starters.
GLIK'S has both women's and men's fashions in trendy and popular name brands such as Roxy, Toms, North Face, and Under Armour. This is the place for printed dresses, cheery tank tops, and cute shorts in bold colors, lace, and distressed varieties.
Let's talk about the fact that this is another location to pick up the popular line of stacking bracelets from Bourbon and Boweties, featuring gemstones and coins.
AUNT CANDY'S TOY COMPANY should come with a warning. Massive amounts of time will be spent here among the stuffed animals, books, games, tiny trinkets, and sugary treats. You'll find familiar characters such as Hello Kitty, Minnie Mouse, and Star Wars and superhero items.
Let's talk about the display of retro Fisher Price toys that bring back such good memories. I'm a sucker for that stuff ...
PAPER DOLL is my weakness. Life feels better among the dark-washed Hudson jeans, artisan-looking jewelry, chic purses, and dreamy perfumes and lotions. The shop is already getting in fall merchandise, so check out some of the warmer tones and cozy tops for inspiration.
Let's talk about The Frye Company boots and how tomboy sweet they are.
SASSY PANTS BOUTIQUE is my suggestion for family photo attire for the little ones. The store carries newborn items up to size 16 for girls and 21 months for boys. Check out frilly party dresses and knitted sweaters with matching beanies, as well as books, burp cloths, bibs, and nursery décor.
Let's talk about the teething necklace craze and the store's Chewbeads line of jewelry in candy colors.
JADE knows a thing or two about fun prints, eye-catching dresses, and colorful statement jewelry. They carry Citizens of Humanity jeans, some of the best belts I've seen in a while, and a few home décor items—just to shake things up. If you have big, exciting plans, Jade has the clothes to match.
Let's talk about the woman that came in the same day I did (and in a hurry) looking for a fun outdoor concert outfit. She trusted Jade's selection to save the day.
Written by Missy Black, a footwear fanatic, a style child, and a contributing writer for West Michigan Woman.
