This is a dreamy shop that speaks to the uniqueness of Monroe Street and Madison. I was on my way…read moreto coffee after picking up some yarn on Monroe Street (don't let the roadwork keep you away!) and as I walked by Calabash Gifts pairs of hand-painted sneakers/tennies in child sizes caught my eye. Too adorable for words, and from Johannesburg, S. Africa. Had to have them for a 2 year old in the family who loves her shoes. The shopkeepers are old school in a way: it's their shop and they have a personal connection to the gifts, very knowledgable about their provenance. Pictures arrive of the 2 year old -- she approves of the new shoes and boy are they cute on her. Thank you, Calabash Gifts -- you are now my favorite!

Locally owned by a lovely couple who stock their shop with fair trade art and home decor pieces,…read morewhich predominantly come from South Africa and its surrounding nations. One of my favorite wedding gifts, a beaded set of salad spoons, came from here. The owners, who are originally from SA, know many of the artisans (and applicable history and cultural traditions) who created the weavings, wall hangings, beadwork, jewelry, etc. they sell. The owners are happy to help you find a unique gift and answer any questions you may have. Highly recommended!

Lily's Mercantile & Makery was so cute and welcoming, it even had my husband who normally hates…read moreshopping commenting on how amazing their variety was, and he wasn't trying to rush me out like he does 99% of the time. There are two levels of viewing pleasure, including: home decor, artwork, jewelry, accessories, gifts, women's clothing, and baby clothing. It was definitely our favorite shop in Paoli!

I really love this boutique! We were visiting family and decided to stop in for a look around. We…read morewere there for over an hour looking at the wide variety of items. I would have given a 5 star rating but I have been trying to call to see if they have an item and I can't reach anyone in the store.

When going to store owner seemed amazing. I bought a shirt for 35 dollars a shirt I could have…read morebought on line for 10 but I like supporting local small businesses. I wore the shirt once and washed it. We wash with cold water and I never dry my shirts as I am a bigger chested person and dont want them to shrink. The print cracked and peeled and was ruined. It looked like it was 20 uears old and survived world War 2. I have called tje store a minimum of 15 times leaving friendly messages asking for a call back. No call has been returned and I want my money back. Tjere is sno reason a shirt for 35 dollars should do that after 1 wash. I spent 400 dollars that day. Could of had a long time repeat customer but have no lost out.

Twigs is a beautiful boutique located in the newly updated Hilldale shopping area. They not only…read morehave a great line of products (Rag and Bone, Vince, Tory Burch, Splendid, Marc Jacobs, etc.), but one of the best staff's in all of Madison. They have gone above and beyond to help me get the perfect gift time and time again. I went in again today and found a great deal on a shirt for my mother, with her birthday coming up. When I told the store associate that I was flying back to D.C. the next day, she took the time to wrap it in thicker wrapping paper and put a beautiful bow so that it was presentable as soon as I got off of the plane. Best place to buy gifts for a girlfriend, wife, or mom! They always know how to pick something great. Can't say enough good things about this store! I have yet to go in there and not leave with something great. 5-star rating is well deserved!

I have happily shopped there for years and I will never be back. They had an older woman employee…read morewho decided I wasn't worth even a hello. Of course this was after she gave me a blatant look from head to toe. Clearly I wasn't gussied up to her standards. They have great pieces but I can buy them elsewhere.

I'm always looking for something unique to gift those I adore. Hazel has such a wide variety of…read morewonderfully curated items (with a big emphasis on local & US made, which is a HUGE win for me) making a selection is both fun and easy! The staff is so very helpful, but not "smothery" which can be off putting at some stores. Whether you are looking for art supplies, natural beauty products, one of a kind light fixtures, candles, tshirts...you will find it at Hazel! Tammy the owner is amazing. She's passionate about what she does and it shows at both her art house "Hatch" and this wonderful store :) Highly recommend this shop. It's a gem.

Hatch and Hazel share the same space, I believe? I couldn't tell which store I was in? The prices…read moreare definitely in the higher-than-I'm used to side, but I appreciate the work is local and artists deserve a fair wage! I picked out a super soft music-themed t-shirt and socks as a gift and the person really liked it! Friendly service! She was very welcoming even when I ran in 15 mi utes before closing this most recent. I promised her I'd be quick and I was in/out in just 7 minutes!! Last time I got to check out more of the cool pottery and art. Beautiful work. Love the unique cards and decals. Perfect for housewarming gifts, birthday or Mother's/Father's Day presents.

Really cute shop right on the town square. The store window had a beautiful winter display. There's…read morea lot to look at in the shop. From vintage, to local artists, they have really cool stuff. They have a great candle section as well. The shop is very warm and well kept. The owners are very kind and welcoming.

I have been going to Trade Secret at Westowne since 2004. Beth is my stylist and she is absolutely…read morethe best!! She does a fantastic job with my tricky hair, she helps me work through those 'I need something new' moments by being very patient and listens to any ideas that I have for a new hairstyles. Trade Secret also has a 'value card' for buying $25 worth of products, after so many 'punches' you get $20 off. Also, after so many hair cuts, you get $20 products or services. Not many places have deals like that. Overall, I would highly recommend anyone who is either new to town, or looking for a new hairstylist to check out Trade Secret.

Fantastic place to be if you're looking for something a little different! Julie is very dedicated…read moreto her store and her customers (AKA friends). If you ask her she can tell you the story behind any item she has. I always enjoy visiting her place to see the new items and find out what's happening in the community.

Small store but full of options! Lots to choose from and at Christmastime, they carry a great…read moreselection of affordable and different ornaments. Friendly staff too, even during Christmas chaos!