UPDATE: As of January 2012, Ouest is closed.
1751 W. Division, (312)421-2799, shopouest.com [ratings]
Goods: Womenswear, shoes and accessories. Designers: Vena Cava, Jenni Kayne, Tevrow + Chase, Yigal Azrouel, Manisse and the owner’s own line, Ouest Exclusive. Owner: Kelly Bry’s charming attention to her clients, and the fun Ouest events keep this petite powerhouse busy.
Vibe: The store reeks of a refined femininity with its multiple chandeliers, checkerboard marble floors and an ostentatious feather display. “Inspired by the timelessly elegant French woman,” the boutique is upscale, but not intimidating. Sparkling with classic pieces, innovative designs and shiny accessories, the store is definitely polished without being too precious. Price Range: Expensive. The Look: Refined but playful. The pieces are classics: pencil skirts, shift dresses and white blouses—usually with a slight twist. A cobalt dress by Marchesa Notte ends in an explosion of ruffles, a navy shift dress with an unexpected gold zipper, ruffles dribble down the front of a standard white button-up blouse. Shopper’s Perks: The Web site also houses a catalog of many of their accessories and garments in stock and available at the store. You can browse from home, ask to have pieces put aside ready to try on the minute you step in the door; Ouest will also ship.
UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2008
