G’sell
(6277 Delmar, 314-863-4735)
Tammy White, owner of denim store Blues and accessories haven Sole, completed a boutique trifecta in September with this dainty 500-square-foot dress shop. The interior oozes femininity, from its crystal-laden chandelier to the black-and-white checkered floor. Dresses priced under $100 offer a range of sizes per style. G’sell (derived from a family name) gets its selection directly from factories supplying Bebe, Guess, and BCBG Max Azria. That means you can find the same high-fashion look—minus the high-price label.
Crowd: Ladies prepping for prom, black-tie affairs, or a fancy night out
Steal: $89 dress from Lapis that can be worn a dozen ways
Splurge: $125 French-inspired silver candleholder from Two’s Company
EiGO
(6366 Delmar, 314-862-7700, experience-eigo.com)
The name’s an acronym: “Expressing individuality, Giving Originality.” Opened in January, EiGO sells everything from basics to bedazzled button-downs. “The Loop has an atmosphere that screams individuality and exudes flavor,” says owner Jason Qualls, a former model. “There was no doubt in my mind that EiGO could add to that.”
Crowd: Attention-grabbing fashionistas
Steal: Trendy necklaces, earrings, and bracelets—two for $14.99
Splurge: $69 Ross Carra sepia-tinted denim jeans
Morrell’s
(6370 Delmar, 314-863-7772)
The tag line might be “Where Fashion Statements Are Made,” but Morrell’s leaves bank statements relatively unscathed. With every price tag at less than $70, this youthful shop is ideal for the price-conscious shopper. Husband-and-wife team Kevin and Morrell Jones stocks the shelves with sophisticated dresses, tanks, and clutches that mimic the latest Forever 21 or Nordstrom designs—but at a lower cost.
Crowd: Gals wanting a young-and-casual look
Steal: $36 two-tone dress with elastic waist
Splurge: Multicolored metallic handbags for $52
While You’re There: 5 Shopping Staples
1. Avalon Exchange: Formerly Rag-O-Rama, still the granddaddy of wardrobe trading posts
2. Ziezo: Hipster heaven for the retro-inspired girlie girl
3. Tantrum: Carries the latest women’s fashions, especially dresses, with new shipments weekly
4. TAG (Timeless Authentic Garments): Clean and organized men’s and women’s vintage
5. Pitaya: Great for night-out-on-the-town tops
