Chatting with Amy DeGrazio
The Edie Boutique owner on the evolution of shopping in Park Ridge, summer trends like sneakers with dresses, and how comfort is key

27 S. Prospect in Park Ridge
ShopEdie.com

Background on Edie: Park Ridge native Amy DeGrazio opened her first Edie Boutique in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, in 2015. The Park Ridge location — the third of her now seven Edie Boutiques (and three Marigolds) — opened a year later.

Who she had in mind when she opened Edie
Honestly, I had myself in mind. People like me. I grew up in this town, as a lifer, and there was never a place for women who were 35-70 to “buy now, wear now.” Items to go out with your girlfriends for brunch or dinner. Everyone always says, “Shop local, shop local,” but there was no place for it in Park Ridge.

“The trend to wear sneakers with dresses is fun too. The whole shoe game has made the dress game more wide open and versatile. … You can go on vacation and take seven dresses and one pair of sneakers and feel good about it.” — Amy DeGrazio

How it’s evolved
Edie Lake Geneva was our first, and we opened another Edie every six months for several years after that. We may have to stop at seven because staffing has been getting harder, and at some point I have to end my day (laughs).

It’s a very easy concept. We focus on targeting the market that likes to go out in things they look cute in and things they can afford. This is not about fast fashion. … Many big brand stores have scaled back their in-store merchandise and gone strictly online with many items. Meanwhile, we’re building this entire shoe wall at Edie because people still want to try things on. Not every trend fits every body, and we’re here to help with that.

What’s trending this summer
The fun thing about the changing seasons is that every season takes on its own sense of style. And it’s so awesome right now with things being both feminine and easy. It’s all about the summer dress. Easy, comfortable, wash-and-wear, ready to go. It’s about looking good, but comfort is key.

The trend to wear sneakers with dresses and dress clothes is fun too. The whole shoe game has made the dress game more wide open and versatile. I credit the younger generation for that trend. You can go on vacation and take seven dresses and one pair of sneakers and feel good about it.

What’s new at Edie
We carry a decent amount of shoes now, which I never anticipated when we first opened. You can come in with a lot of needs, and we can take care of everything. We’ve had people going on vacation, even going to Europe, and we get them entirely ready for the their trip.

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2 Sisters A&L Boutique

More summer fashion advice from Park Ridge store owners…

2 Sisters A&L Boutique
33 S. Prospect in Park Ridge
Shop2SistersPR.com

From owner Natalie Amabile: Everything you need to make your summer wardrobe complete you can find at 2 Sisters A&L. From bright colors to pastels, we have what you need. Adding a pop of color to your outfit will make all the difference.

“We source the softest fabrics you will love to wear. Make sure to check out the stretchy, shorter-length men’s shorts this season.”

Our men’s section is always on trend. We source the softest fabrics you will love to wear. Make sure to check out the stretchy, shorter-length shorts this season.

Rompers and dresses are so easy for travel. Grab one item and your outfit is complete. You can pack lighter and still look fabulous. We can put together your entire travel look for you.

Sooo Cute
7 S. Prospect Ave.
SoooCuteBoutique.com

From owner Vania Ignatov: For summer clothing at Sooo Cute Boutique, we are all about beautiful, colorful pieces. Whether you like a pretty floral print or a gorgeous pop of color, we have it all.

Plus, we have the best selection of jewelry to complete any of your summer outfits. Make sure to stop by and check out our new expanded space!

Sooo Cute Boutique