Tired of the same-old, same-old at department stores? Boutique shopping is the cure-all for what ails you, so whether you’re after the perfect gift or a little something crazy-sexy-cool for yourself, treasures await at one of these hip, hot retailers. From lovingly curated selections of the freshest designer threads to the most fantastic jewelry, shoes and accessories for both men and women, these cool boutiques are worth the extra spending limit.
Los Angeles
Madison
8745 W. Third St., 310.275.1930, and three other locations

L.A. specializes in big-league shopping and Madison is one of its heaviest hitters. From couture classics like Marc Jacobs and Zac Posen to up-and-coming indie faves, timeless and trendy are blended flawlessly within its four locations in the City of Angels. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and more than willing to help you pull together the perfect look.
More to Love: Kitson and Fred Segal are close to Madison’s flagship West Third Street location. Warm up your credit cards and let the games begin.
Where to Stay: Hotel Wilshire, Hotel Palomar Los Angeles
New York
Pas de Deux
328 E. 11th St., 212.475.0075

The little sister of renowned menswear purveyor Odin (located next door), Pas de Deux is the kind of edgy, on-trend and sharp boutique you’d expect to find in one of the world’s great fashion capitals. Hard-to-find brands like 3.1 Phillip Lim and Repetto delight those who read Vogue, but also share rack space with more esoteric labels aimed at well-heeled hipsters. The store itself is small, but that only enhances its jewel-box vibe and the unshakable feeling that every purchase is a treasure.
More to Love: Pas de Deux’s entire atmosphere is inspired by Paris, to the point that a visit feels like receiving a postcard from the City of Lights.
Where to Stay: Eventi, Ink48, Muse Hotel
Chicago
Trillium
1744 W. Division St., 773.698.8162

Classic, elegant and more than just a little preppy, Trillium is the Windy City’s one-stop-shop for structured sweaters and frilly dresses alike. While the store mostly caters to the ladies with a hand-picked selection of clothing, handbags and jewelry, it does feature a small men’s section as well. Owner Erica Cook is a transplant from Michigan who delights in the wares of Chicago-area designers and aims to showcase elegant simplicity.
More to Love: Trillium was one of the first locations in the U.S. to score pieces from Danish designers Libertine-Libertine, and now the brand is a store favorite.
Where to Stay: Hotel Burnham, Hotel Allegro, Hotel Monaco Chicago, Hotel Palomar Chicago
Photos: Los Angeles — courtesy Madison; New York — Ibitmylip/Creative Commons; Dallas — Robert Hensley/Creative Commons; Chicago — courtesy Trillium.
FYI, Pas De Deux and Odin in NYC are now closed.