2 Sisters Boutique A&L
33 S. Prospect Ave. in Park Ridge

847-698-3808
Shop2SistersPR.com



By Trent Modglin

History in short: Owner Natalie Amabile was a buyer at Nordstrom before leaving that position to raise her children here in Park Ridge, but when the kids got busy with school, Natalie got restless and knew a return to the fashion industry was imminent.

“I worked my butt off at Nordstrom,” Natalie tell us, “and I figured if I was going to work that hard again, it should be for myself.

While expressing a general interest in buying 2 Sisters Boutique — which had been a Park Ridge staple for more than a decade and located in the current Sooo Cute space next to the Pickwick — little did she know that three weeks of training later, she would be taking over the business and quickly making it her own. Natalie moved 2 Sisters into its current space down Prospect Avenue two years ago, and this March marks her seven-year anniversary.

“I love to put someone in a fitting room and have them tell me what they’re looking for, whether it’s for a specific event or just to freshen up their wardrobe.”

— Natalie Amabile

What to expect: The goal for Natalie and her staff is to have customers feel like they are being welcomed into a home. Think friendly service and a calm and upbeat vibe. And a colorful array of on-trend clothing, shoes and accessories for women and men, of course.

“Our clientele ranges from my 15-year-old daughter to a 75-year-old woman who ended up working for us because she shopped here so much,” Natalie says with a laugh. “We have something for every age and every style.” And here’s a bonus: The selection changes on almost a weekly basis, as Natalie attends a fashion expo in different cities every two months to provide an evolving mix of inventory. “We want it new and fresh every time you come in the store,” she adds.

Did you know?
2 Sisters added a men’s section called Brother J’s when they moved locations two years ago, and customers are always surprised when they see it for the first time. You’ll find jeans, shorts, belts, graphic t-shirts, sweaters and polos from established brands like Vuori, Travis Matthew and Johnny O. Even Jack Black men’s facial creams and moisturizers are available.

Personalized styling sessions: Talk about customer service, this is where Natalie’s passion truly lies. You can tell it in her voice. “I love to put someone in a fitting room and have them tell me what they’re looking for, whether it’s for a specific event or just to freshen up their wardrobe,” Natalie tell us, “and then take my suggestions, even if it doesn’t stand out to them when it’s on a hanger. They usually almost always like what I have them try on.”

You can even call ahead to schedule a time, and at no extra charge, they’ll have a fitting room set up just for you. 2 Sisters can even host private parties.

From the first time I visited the store, I have never felt like a stranger. … I think Natalie is on point with fashion trends, and I know when I walk into the store I can always find something great.

Think spring: As far as trends this spring, Natalie tells us to expect bold colors in everything, and they already have a lot of skirts, sandals, shorts-and-blazer combinations, cute tops and summer dresses in stock for the warmer weather. Accessories and fun items like candles, glasses and BruMates, handbags and wine bottle openers too. “Whatever I find that’s cool and different, I’ll often carry it,” Natalie adds.

Customer testimonials: “From the first time I visited the store, I have never felt like a stranger. Natalie and her staff are very welcoming. I think she is on point with fashion trends, and I know when I walk into the store I can always find something great. … I stop by once or twice a week just to see the new items, or what is trending for the season. They have unique pieces, are always bringing in new brands and work hard to set themselves apart from other boutiques.”

— Laura Wittmus

“I might be one of the biggest beneficiaries of 2 Sisters opening the Brother J’s men’s clothing line. Having shopped at Nordstrom and Trunk Club for years prior, it’s been quite a luxury to shop locally for form-fitting men’s clothing. As a guy with little patience for shopping, there is a significant value in Natalie and her staff knowing my size and clothing preferences. With a busy schedule, I also appreciate having such a great option so close.

— Joe Zone