Photograph by Ashley Heifner

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Suburban Chic – Chesterfield

Take Long Road to Chesterfield Towne Centre and park: Great shopping is all around. Start at Crush [1], a women’s boutique where men even have their own section, not just the usual two sad racks in a back corner. With great belts and an extensive denim collection, including True Religion and J Brand, Crush brings West Coast fashion to the Midwest.

Across the plaza is Susan Lynn’s [2], a store that feels like a chic Easter morning with its growing Lilly Pulitzer selection. Instead of shoving purses, shoes and jewelry to the side, Susan Lynn’s gives its huge collection of accessories (Diane Katzman, Costablanca, My Flat in London) as much space as it does its expanding clothing collection. And for the new mother, Susan Lynn’s just opened Mary’s Corner. Nearby Ginger Pye [3] features top-of-the-line baby clothing, toys and books—and when your baby’s not your baby anymore, at least not sizewise,  there’s designer clothing by such names as Lucy Ann and Florence Eiseman.

Now jog over to Ghisallo [4], an athletic shop that caters to both competitive and recreational bike riders. Knowledgeable staffers will help the eager amateur find the perfect pair of Oakleys and a bike to match. A few doors down, Elan [6] sells country artwork and furniture reminiscent of Chesterfield’s rural history. The Tack Trunk [7] offers all things related to English-style riding, from clothing and saddles to stuffed steeds. Two doors down, future jewelry-makers roam free in child-friendly Bizzy Beads [8].
 
Hungry? Try the chicken nachos at El Maguey [9] for what’s practically a religious experience. Afterward, head for Galleria Toscana [10], with its Tuscan-themed furniture, bronze sculptures, European street scenes and carved wood furniture. Cross over Edison to Ooh La La [11], a sophisticated showroom of Old World art and furniture, French and Italian décor, greenery, dark irons and polished nickel. Then drive over to Clarkson and check out Talbots [12], Chico’s [13], White House/Black Market [14] and Barnes & Noble [15] without the hassle of a mall parking lot. At the Clarkson Clayton Center, sift through the eclectic fashions at Marta’s [16] boutique, and while you’re there, browse the coolest watches at clarkson Jewelers. Then drive to Woods Mill and Olive for Ann’s Bra Shop [17], a ritual stop for anyone seeking support. Or go south on Manchester to Ariana’s [18] bou-tique for ultrachic local designers or Imitation of Christ and Antik Denim. Rest your feet and take high tea at Ladies of Lucerne [19]—or head for dinner at Annie Gunn’s [20] or Aqua Vin [21].