Marie Parie Oui, Oui!

Marie Parie Boutique is tres petit--but filled with everything under the heavens. Though it exudes a French theme, this shop nailed boho before it became chic and it evolves still. Owned by former Californian Heidi Giammarese, Marie Parie transformed from Giammarese's former record store business where she sold music and vintage clothing. Located in the same Evanston storefront, Marie Parie holds true to its roots with rock n' roll merchandise and great tunes playing during store hours.  

What makes this boutique a gem is Giammarese's dedication to small and independent local artists. Jewelry--earrings, necklaces and bracelets are never run-of-the-mill and are carefully crafted by Chicago area creatives. So, too, is it for the clothing sold at Marie Parie. Many of the designers are local and those who are national are of the cottage industry variety. Clothing and other items are moderately priced.    

On variety--Marie Parie has it. Remember, this is a boutique you can dance around in a second, yet in that time you'll see beautifully crafted soaps, arty t-shirts, coats, dresses, sweaters, brightly patterned socks, glass birds, framed art, fragrant candles, perfume, lip gloss, purses, magnets, scarves, antique furniture, mirrors, pillows, mirrors, cards, bows, pins, pillows, table cloths, belts and hair accessories. Merchandise changes frequently as Giammarese only buys very small quantities and rarely the same thing twice. Rule of thumb: if you love it, buy it. Because it will be gone the next day.  

A former window designer, Giammarese's creativity takes hold of Marie Parie throughout the seasons. Her gifted eye in both design and buying has attracted a vast clientele--from teens to senior citizens who visit from throughout the Chicago region. Marie Parie, of course, is a rather fictional character who you can meet on the boutique's website -- marieparie.com. Needless to say, Marie Parie loves pink as much as she loves shopping and hula hoop. To be sure, Giammarese is masquerading as Parie. But aren't we all? That's what a good boutique is all about--being that tres petite shop where one day the mood is more beret than beanie and oh so fancy-free.

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