I want to shop here but it never seems to be open. I went multiple occasions on a Saturday at 3;00 closed?!?! I've been on Sundays too. Closed. Guess I'll keep trying... read more

Bottom Line: Beautiful store featuring house wares, linens and such. The displays at Folly 101 including the windows are beautiful so I had to go in to take a closer look. I enjoyed looking at Dash & Albert rugs, throw blankets, throw pillows, scented soaps, pretty glassware, little dishes, Ina Garten cookbooks and sweet baby gifts. Everything was beautifully displayed and all of the fabrics I touched, whether it be dish towels or pillows, felt quality. The store is requiring customers to wear mask and I'm out of the habit of carrying one but fortunately I had an "emergency mask" tucked away in my bag. read more

Folly 101 - Folly 101 on Exchange St. Lots of pretty linens and little dishes and such. - Kitchen & Bath Near Me - Portland, Maine

Very nice home store downtown area, arranged in color. Rugs, dishes, and an array of mustards and sauces. The owner was very sweet and helpful. read more

See all

Lovely but reasonably priced items. Love their hats! Great items for kitchens as well.

Should be called the house of rules. Wear your mask Don't use your cell phone No dogs I was told I could not carry my water bottle in the store, really?!?! Oh and def don't come in without a mask I guess they didn't want us to spend much money read more

Folly 101 - Kitchen & Bath Near Me - Portland, Maine

If I could give this store & owners no stars I would. I have shopped at this store often in the past, cute things that are not terribly expensive for home decor (that you can also find elsewhere). However, the women behind the counter have always been snooty. And today they were outrageous. We barely had a minute to walk in to their store when one older woman practically ran us down to tell us to leave a drink at their counter AND to mask up. It was obnoxious to insinuate that we should know, when a couple of weeks ago I was in their store with NO mask required. I don't need to patronize businesses that want to flip flop their policies every other day with each news cycle. And when we said nothing, turned around to walk out we heard them snicker & rudely chuckle and say under their breath 'or you can leave'. Done with condescending & arrogant owners. I will spend my money at other charming stores who appreciate my business. These women are OBNOXIOUS. Snooty. And they always have been. I will NOT recommend this store to any of our friends who visit. read more

Went into this cute little store. Was immediately profiled as a shoplifter. "Hey watch them" "I know" I didn't hear the exchange. I would have left immediately and WOULD NOT have spent over $100. I've been in retail all my life. I was very upset. read more

I checked out this shop with my boyfriend on a recent trip to Portland. The shop itself is adorable and is filled with lots of nice things. Unfortunately, as others have said in the reviews, the ladies that work here give off a really uncomfortable vibe. I felt like I was being watched and judged the entire time. We saw an obvious sign on the storefront asking customers to leave their drinks at the counter but the second we walked in the door before we had the chance to put on hand sanitizer (also as instructed by a sign) we were advised to come to the counter to put our drinks down - it didn't make us feel very welcome at all and seemed passive aggressive. My brief interaction with the sales ladies seemed inauthentic and I didn't feel like they wanted us there. From reading some of these reviews and based on my own experience, if you don't fit the look of their ideal customer you might not be treated as warmly... I decided to pick out a few things to decorate my new coffee table but I can't say I have a good feeling about shopping at this store. Just very strange and disappointing. read more

I have loved and bought many items in this sweet magical store. Quality abounds. . Attentive, but not over bearing. A dear lovely bit of whimsy I love this glorious shop and everyone in it. xxoo EMD . read more

As a long-time Portland resident, I have been patroning Folly 101 for many years, given the lovely owner's warmth, incredible penchant for detail, and the affordability & quality of all merchandise. I appreciate how staff create a calming and enjoyable shopping experience, which comes from their simple requests to leave phone calls outside, and to be mindful of other shoppers. Displays are delectable to the eye, merchandise is always high quality, and Folly is my go-to for hostess gifts, holiday ornaments, sweet accessories for the home, and even unique jewelry. Brava, Folly: you are one of the Old Port's best shops!! read more

The loveliest shop, ever. Since its beginning. And peaceful, the vibe is peaceful. It's like getting a massage for the soul.

Folly 101 is labeled as a "Women's Clothing" store on Yelp. I submitted a modification to that, but I thought it warranted a note in a review too: the store is more of a kitchen and home goods store than a women's clothing store. And the home goods are really great too! They offer a well curated selection of thematically consistent stuff, so if you find something in your style, you're likely to find a lot of other things you'll like too (and you'll know pretty quickly if the store isn't for you, which is a nice time saver). I bought some dish towels here that are high enough quality and timeless enough style that I may have them the rest of my life. read more

I absolutely LOVE Folly 101 and have been a fan of this shop for years. They have a stunning and carefully curated selection of housewares and their staff bends over backwards to respond to customers. Folly 101 is one of my stops every year for Christmas gifts. They are also my go-to for special pieces for a wedding or anniversary. They display their wares in the most lovely ways. Ways that make you dream about living in a home decorated in the same sensibility. While I would agree that some things they sell are quite expensive, they also have gifts all along the budget line. Without intention, the most positive feedback I got from this past Christmas were the three people I bought paper whites at Folly 101! The bulbs, the white rocks and a lovely white bowl to hold it all in, came to roughly $10 total, AND they wrapped it all in a stunning gift bag and bow! They also have a smaller collection of jewelry, body products and baby items in the back of the store. My ONLY quibble with Folly 101 is that they can have odd hours and are sometimes not open when hours are listed. So, call ahead. Otherwise, this is a truly lovely, shop to find one of a kind, special gifts for the people in your life! read more

This is a tough review to write. My husband and I were in Portland for the weekend and I had read about Folly 101 on a blog. The review of the products as well as the photos sounded great. So, off we went, determined to include it in our weekend of boutique hopping. While we were in Portland, I decided I get some information on shops that I might want to cover on my new blog. I thought the nicely presented array of housewares, jewelry and nursery items might be perfect. I nicely asked the older woman in the shop if she'd mind if I grabbed some photos for a blog. She didn't want me to do that. Saying "no" is fine and anyone who approaches another person about photos or coverage in a blog needs to be prepared to be told that the party is uninterested. But she was entirely awkward and snooty about it. Unfortunately, it didn't end there. From that point forward, she watched my husband and I like we were shoplifters. We were actually shopping! She was unbelievably obvious about it, a complete snob, and I'm really just not sure why she's in a customer service centric business because clearly, she's incapable of being appropriate with people. What a shame! As for the products, as someone stated, nothing is all that unique. You can find just about everything somewhere else and maybe for less money, but their presentation is really quite lovely. It's a shame her personality isn't. So, would I go back? Unlikely. I'd rather skip over to somewhere like Blanche & Mimi and know that I'm going to be treated well than to deal with that nonsense. Also? It was really shocking to run into a personality like that because I've always found the folks in Portland to be so pleasant and accommodating. There's always one bad apple, isn't there? read more

A cute little shabby chic shop with cottagy decor and accouterments, some books and whimsical stuff. I tried to get a photo of the shop, but the owner stormed over and bullishly demanded to know why I was taking a picture. It's America, and I can do that if I wish. Maybe there's a rule in Portland that I wasn't aware of. Hmm. If I go back here, I'll hide my phone. Or maybe I just won't go back. Yep, that sounds good. read more

Obsessed with this store - I come from Boston to shop here! The ladies behind the counter are so so nice, they always chat and help me find anything I'm looking for! read more

The store has some adorable items but the older woman who works there is not very polite. Not sure if it's because I don't look like I can afford anything. But not good business practice to profile minority shoppers. read more

When visiting this store recently with my husband, teenage daughter and 2 of her friends, the two women working were rudely glaring at us the entire time. The 5 of us were very interested in several of their products to purchase as gifts. I probably should not have, but I did buy several small items that added up to $60 (yikes!) My husband wanted to purchase a set of over-priced plates, and I said "no" -- if the women had been nice or cordial, I probably would have indulged him, which would have amounted to 2 or 3 times the amount we spent. I make a point of supporting local businesses. But, given how many wonderful and unique shops there are in Portland, and how consistently kind and helpful the staff are at other stores, I saw no need to over spend at this particular venue b/c the two women working were exactly the opposite -- surly and rude. read more

#Sodisappointing. Worst experience with a Portland retailer I think I've ever had; and, in one of my favorite stores in the Old Port. I'm a ten year regular loyal customer who happened to walk in 5 min before closing time this evening after taking my 84 year old mother out for some shopping in the Old Port. Portland is so festive and joyful this time of year; we were having a ball. I had planned my visit to Folly 101 based upon information I found online about their closing time. Apparently the information I gleaned was 30 minutes off. When I walked in with my mother & my husband I was greeted by the owner who who literally scowled at me with the warning "we are closing in 5 min". I was ok with that but I thought I should let her know what was showing up on a FB search of her business (she could care less she told me) as it stated a 6 pm closing time for the biz (not 5:30). Talk about "Jekyl & Hyde". Boy was I taken aback. This was not the accommodating retailer/owner I knew and had met on many occassions. She continued her aggressive tone and was so nasty to me that I couldn't believe it. Such a chip on her shoulder. Honestly, if that were my experience with her previously, I would never have come back. I had heard through the grapevine for years she was unwilling to participate in city-wide holiday events after 5 pm, but until this point I don't think I understood what that truly meant. My mom purchased a beautiful blanket for $100 and yet the owner was still miserable as we left. I will never spend another dollar there again. So foolish to treat a loyal customer as such and so completely unnecessary. My sense is she hates her job and her business. Why else would she treat someone so undeserving so poorly. I feel badly for her. read more

Too full from brunch? Why not stroll into Folly 101, because that's exactly what we did. This is the cutest store and a great spot to buy gifts for your loved ones. I'm not sure what Folly 101 sells in the other months, but currently they are all about the holiday season. I purchased a small and very cute wooden tree along with colorful ornaments to go with it. The store is carefully curated with random things and the presentation is really quite lovely. Actually, quaint would be a better descriptor. It is a tad overpriced but then again, you are supporting a local business so that's always a plus. I did not have any problems with the staff unlike the other reviews. They even offered free gift wrapping. I would come back for some miscellaneous purchases. read more

I can count on finding just the right gift at Folly 101. In addition, they are my go to place to buy Teddy bears, (When we learn of a new addition to our family we select a bear to be their first friend)! I am always greeted with a friendly smile and when I need help the staff is efficient and thoughtful. read more

Reading these review I wasn't sure if it was the same store i shopped. The staff is wonderful, extremely helpful and kind. The owner Astrid is a former New Yorker and was very sweet, she suggested all the shops in the area and the best places to have lobster. I was so impressed with her store that I'm def making another trip before I leave to Puerto Rico (we are currently in the process of moving from New York to PR, my husband is stationed in Boston). I bought everything from soaps, stainless steel straws to pillow cases. The prices are comparable to Crate and Barrel. LOVE LOVE THIS STORE! read more

See all

Folly 101 gets so many things right. There is a coherence in taste throughout the store--which means if you like one thing you'll probably like all of it. It has just the right blend of products it always has on hand, interspersed with fresh surprises. Prices fit with the product and there are plenty of reasonable prices throughout the store The best part is the service and friendliness of the staff. The owner knows most people who enter the store if they are not tourists. My kids from away go to Folly 101 on the second day of any visit. (I won't let them go on Day One) It's nice to visit just to step into beauty and friendliness. Folly 101 is the best kind of local business read more

Reading the low-star reviews of Folly 101, I can't imagine how they're real. My husband and I came here during a weekend visit to Portland. While roaming around the city, I couldn't help but noticed the adorable items in the window, so we stopped in. We browsed around for 15+ minutes, while also chatting with the owner and her staff member that was working. They were both very friendly, had some great recommendations on places to eat, and were an overall delight. The selection is a mix of European and Scanidivian style and origin (right up my Swedish-German alley). I found many things that I'd love to buy once my husband and I move to Portland in a few years. We found a few gifts for family and a few things for ourselves. I wish the prices were a bit lower, but given the observable quality of the goods they sell, it's worth the price. read more

Interesting items BUT terrible vibe with their customers. They had signs about no beverages and about placing umbrellas in a bin which is acceptable. Then they asked me my reason for taking a photo. I explained how I often post about discoveries in areas I visit. It just seemed as though the owner wanted to control my every move and act. Saw some stuff but left with no purchase. read more

UNBELIEVABLE this needs a negative 5 stars. While carrying around an overpriced bracelet I planned to purchase for my mother's birthday, I got a phone call, and proceeded to have a casual, normal decibel level conversation on my phone with my sister. I had been on the phone for literally 2 mins and was asked to, "take my conversation outside..." And she was serious... I was shocked, I quickly put the bracelet back and walked right out real quick. UNREAL. Are people not allowed to talk to one another in your RETAIL store? Is this a library? You're CRAZY lady, and just lost a sale and PLENTY of additional sales. It's no wonder I NEVER hear about your store and had lived in Greater Portland my whole life and never once heard about you...how your are still in business is beyond me. I literally can't wait to tell EVERYONE not to go to your store. I'm going to K. Collette. read more

A cute housewares/gift type store. Nothing too special but I did manage to find a beautiful soap dish that will look great in my new bathroom. Ladies were unfriendly until the very end when we got to chatting. Wouldn't go out of my way for it, but a nice spot to stop in Portland. read more

Folly 101 is refreshing and each piece is chosen carefully; the shop has those perfect finds you need for yourself or gifts. Best of boutique items you covet when you go to NYC or Boston, but right in the middle of Portland, Maine. SHOP HERE! read more

The ladies in here are super friendly and helpful. The goods that they sell are also very cool and carefully curated. It reminds me of a crate and barrel or anthropologie but with a more personal touch. read more

A perfectly appointed little housewares shop that balances their stock between familiar favorites and new items. That means that I can find my favorite soaps and lotions every time I return, but they always have something fresh to tempt me. I love how open and airy they manage to keep the shop, even though every corner is full of merchandise. I find the staff at Folly 101 to be pleasant and welcoming without being overwhelming. They don't push customers to engage in empty chitchat or try to steer me toward specific purchases. Instead, they leave me free to wander, checking out the goodies, and they're always there to answer any questions. read more

This is about my favorite store in Portland. They have unique and lovely home furnishings. It is great for hostess presents, stocking stuffers, birthday presents and - of course - myself! The owner and staff are as lovely as their store - warm, friendly and helpful. Go! Enjoy! read more

I do not feel that my shopping for best girlfriends (I have two) and my best male friend (I have one) is complete until I walk into Folly 101 and see the unique and sooooo very special treasures that Astrid has selected for her store and that I can choose from to then be wrapped in her tissue paper and boxed with her label. From YEARS of purchasing items at Folly 101 for myself and friends and colleagues I can see the smile creep across one's face as they realize their new surprise is from Folly 101. (you see sometimes I keep the Folly 101 shopping bag myself and additionally wrap the boxed gift in wrapping paper.) The displays are artfully arranged and so often develop a theme that speaks to me for my own home or as a special gift to a friend. I appreciate being able to find several little treasures that together make a statement of quality and thoughtfulness..... I have moved to Wells from Cumberland and can not easily drop in as regularly as I have in the past, however I had a very successful shopping visit in January, I use the table linens for dinner often and the candles still have lots of hours yet to burn and although the vases long to hold my own Spring flower stems....they have been used with store bought stems to date. And later this month (March) I will again visit and shop at my favorite Portland store....Folly 101. I hope Astrid and her team enjoyed a well deserved holiday in February. ... Sue B read more

Folly 101 is a wonderful store that tries hard to find goods that are useful, original, attractive and reasonably priced. They have very stylish things and it's fun to shop there. The owner is very nice. read more

My mother loves this store for some reason so I recently went in to purchase her a Christmas present. As soon as I walked in I felt as though all of the sales women were judging me and when they spoke to me they seemed very pretentious and snooty. They have some lovely stock but a bit overpriced considering you could most likely get it elsewhere. Despite all of this, I ended up buying my mother something simply because I knew she would love it but I would not recommend this store. read more

My wife loves this store as she feels it offers a lot of unique, not too expensive gifts for every occasion. However, every time we have gone in with our child in a stroller the older salesperson is downright rude. This not only happened with our current infant, but three years ago when our older child was a baby. And we'd always leave the baby in the stroller and wait by the front of the store; it isn't like we were pushing her/him around a crowded store. Her most recent exchange with us was so rude it might turn us off completely. There are enough stores in Portland with nice salespeople that there isn't much need to waste your time here. read more

Though the products are displayed beautifully and there is lots of homeware eye candy, the customer service in Folly 101 is clearly missing from the moment you walk through the doors. After having a cool reception as I walked through the door, I was told my daughter - clean as a whistle, could not touch a stuffed animal that was on display. That, on top of having zero assistance as I browsed, led me to take my business elsewhere. I strolled to Blanche and Mimi's and had a lovely time browsing, chatting, and shopping. I wanted to have my pretty woman moment and pop back in with all of my parcels... "You work on commission right? Big mistake." But I kept my cool and made a promise to always take my patronage to local establishments who know that a kind word and a smile go a long way. read more

i dont understand the reviews because I love a place I can browse around for a long time without being bothered. I really don't want a salesperson bugging me. I like when they leave me alone to wander and poke around. There was so much eye candy there, I didn't want to leave, the atmosphere was very serene with nice music playing that made me want to stick around. Granted, I agree you can find the stuff somewhere else at a cheaper price, but on the whole, I thought it was a very peaceful and relaxing shopping experience. I bought a few odds and ends and would have loved to buy more but ran out of time. I love the thoughtful selection of simple, quality items for the home. read more

To whom it was that visited Folly 101 on 11-11-11. I believe this place is absolutely amazing. When I go to Portland every year, I have to stop at this shop right away. The women who work there have been so nice and accommodating. It hurts when someone needs to post an unnecessary blog that is not even true. To all shoppers out there, this is a wonderful, unique shop! : )) read more

I was visiting Portland Maine and found myself going into Folly 101. I thought the staff was more than friendly and the products were simple and beautiful. They also displayed some items together that I wouldn't have thought to put together. Today I will have a wonderful table setting for Easter thanks to Folly 101! read more

Absolutely love this store. Usually go there looking for a small something for a friend or family member and always walk out having bought something or (things!) for myself as well. Love the way the salespeople leave me alone so I can look in solitude. It's one of the few local stores in cool Portland that seem to have remained true to itself. read more