This past 2012 was a good year for fashionistas in the city of St. Louis. Numerous boutiques have opened up across the metro area, specializing in unique handmade gifts and flattering clothing lines. The stores opening doors this year are all trend-setters and support local designers to encourage growth here in their hometown of St. Louis. Read more to learn about these new hot spots in the city.

Screaming Mimi
2718 Sutton Blvd.
Maplewood, MO 63143
(314) 536-8660
www.facebook.com

Screaming Mimi introduces a creative concept to the Maplewood area since its opening in February. Featuring all handmade clothing and crafts alongside wedding accessories and floral designs, the boutique reinvents gift shopping by combining unique gifts with bridal shopping. Come here to find specialized wall décor, such as Dr. Suess-inspired letters to hang on the wall, or invest in up-cycling. Up-cycling refers to items crafted from recycled designs, like Altoid tins that were converted into sewing kits. From the non-traditional bride to seekers of eclectic gifts, browse Screaming Mimi’s store featuring local and regional designers to snatch up the perfect piece.

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Sparkle Boutique
217 S. Kirkwood Road
Kirkwood, MO 63122
(314) 909-8844
www.sparklestl.com

Located in downtown Kirkwood, Sparkle Boutique features mostly locally made accessories and house décor. Owner Diana Slay opened the store in August with the goal of offering items that make the most fantastic gifts. From dazzling glitter envelope clutches to wire-wrap bracelets and hand-painted signs, score the perfect gift for a lovely lady in your life. Also, take advantage of the complimentary gift wrapping and courier delivery offered during holidays.

Bada Bling Boutique
311 S. Lincoln Ave.
O’ Fallon, IL 62269
(618) 589-3880
www.bada-bling-boutique.com

Bada Bling Boutique opened in June with clothing lines for men, women and children. Visit O’ Fallon to select an outfit from the punk-rock kids clothing line for your niece or nephew. Find a unique tie featuring old liquor labels for your partner or pick up a bauble necklace for your lady friend. From one-of-a-kind accessories to a plus-size clothing line, Bada Bling Boutique offers a wide array of items to suit your needs.

Related: Top Spots In St. Louis That Offer A Military Discount

Leopard Boutique
20 Allen Ave., Suite 100
Webster Groves, MO 63119
(314) 961-3220
www.facebook.com

Leopard Boutique opened its doors in October, hoping to thrive in the area of Old Webster. Featuring a selection of clothing and accessories for all women, the boutique focuses on business casual trends. Draw attention with a dazzling necklace or choose a sequined gold and champagne-colored tunic dress for a New Year’s Eve party. Indulge in feminine fashion without breaking your budget at the Leopard Boutique.

Miss Ohio Vintage
1300 Washington Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63101
(314) 620-0023
missohiovintage.blogspot.com

Located downtown, Miss Ohio Vintage showcases all handmade items and vintage clothing designed by the owners. Lindsay Pattan began selling her unique designs online at www.etsy.com in 2010 and finally opened a boutique in 2012 along Washington Avenue. Miss Ohio Vintage offers retro fashions, including 1950s-inspired dresses, high-waist shorts and even boater hats. Stay on trend by selecting one of these staple fashions or introduce this fantastic boutique to friends and family by calling the boutique to learn more about hosting a private party from your home.

Living in St. Louis, Amanda Dahl is a freelance writer specializing in dating tips and ways to stylize your life; whether it be through house decor or finding a perfect pair of shoes. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.