Uniglo's new Boston location at Faneuil Hall

Uniqlo, the Japanese clothing sensation just opened their Boston location (in Faneuil Hall) a month ago! If you've never experienced Uniqlo, here's the low-down...

Expect stylish comfortable clothes for men, women and children at amazingly affordable prices.  Their motto sums it up perfectly... "Clothes for a better life, for everyone, everyday".  Their no frills, utilitarian but on-trend clothing makes for great wardrobe staples without breaking the bank.
For instance, take this women's ultra-light down compact jacket (fabulous for traveling!) for just $49.90!

Or this beautiful merino wool crew-neck sweater--a closet must-have--for only $19.90! For this price you'll want to pick up a few in different colors (v-neck also available).


One more peek---LOVE this striped merino wool sweater dress for a mere $49.90!


Uniglo also gives back by recycling millions of pieces of clothing for those in need and supports small businesses through microcredit.

So visit Uniglo on-line (free shipping over $50) or at their new Massachusetts locations including Faneuil Hall, Natick, Chestnut Hill and soon to come, Northshore Mall in Peabody and Legacy Mall in Dedham.  Great clothes at great prices...life is good!

Where is the last place you would expect to find unique clothing and accessories?
Museum gift shops?  Wrong.
Craft fairs?  Wrong
Flea markets?  Wrong.

Surprise, surprise...it's the hospital gift shop! More and more hospital gift shops are evolving into mini "boutiques" appealing to visitors, staff and even shoppers!

I recently took a trip to Lowell General Hospital where I met with the gift shop manager Donna Thoene.  Donna took over both The Lowell General Shop and The Saints Memorial gift shop (also in Lowell) a few years ago.  Back then they were the typical old-fashioned hospital gift shops run by volunteers carrying  "run of the mill" candy, trinkets and flowers---that is until Donna came into the picture! With a retail background, she stepped thing s up a notch by bringing in stylish clothing and accessories.


Manger Donna Thoene clearly loves her work! "Everyone loves to shop here" says Donna 
"We like to change things up so you never know what you'll find!"

So the proof is in the pudding right? Check out these fabulous finds.  The prices are extremely competitive --with jewelry starting at just over $10.00 (I saw many gorgeous pieces for $12.99!), most bags under $100 and tops under $50. Their bag selection includes Big Buddha, Vera Bradley,  and vegan bags Shiraleah and Laurenhide  (many are discounted).  And who doesn't love Alex and Ani bracelets? They have carry the full line!








For those who are visiting patients there are some great gift ideas too, including adorable baby items, stunning flower arrangements from Floral Arts Flowers of Westford, and delicious Nelson's Candy--sure to elicit a smile! The hospital also has a service where items can be purchased on-line and delivered to a patient's room.


So whats the best thing about shopping at Lowell General's gift shop? All profits go to charity! It's guilt-free shopping at its best! The LGH Auxiliary owns the gift shop which is one of their top producers. Over the past 5 years the Auxiliary has raised and donated $750,000 to the LGH Legacy Fund which financed the construction of the beautiful new Dahod Building. The Auxiliary has also recently donated a computer and game table to the LGH Cancer Center.

And to sweeten things up even more, the hospital offers FREE valet parking...great for those rainy shopping days!

For more information, contact Donna at 978.937.6373 or visit Lowell General online.

This DKNY leather bag was one of the best investments I've made. It serves as a cross-body bag, shoulder bag and even a clutch by simply taking the strap off. It's lightweight and goes with everything.







My favorite boutiques include M0851, Swell and Ginger, Martino Boots, and Oclan

Let's start with M0851
Carrying an exceptional line of gorgeous leather goods including bags and jackets for men and women, M0851 is an example of "you get what you pay for". Their buttery soft leathers, crafted with quality and style will last throughout the years and look even better "worn in".   You'll find them at 66 Boulevard Champlain.