Motley Shoe Shop

By now you’ve all heard of Bodega, the so-hip-it-hurts sneaker haven masquerading as a run down convenience shop, tucked away behind the Christian Science Center, off Mass Ave. It’s a place where sneak freaks collude behind tins of sardines and boxes of Tide. Cool, but not exactly fashionista friendly. Doug Palardy, of Motley fame, (he’s got the t-shirt cum gift shop as well as the home store on Tremont), has conceived of a more straightforward solution to supplying fans of athletic footwear the most coveted styles. In mid-October he plans to open the doors of Motley Shoe Shop on Dartmouth Street in the South End. The space will be an ode to the green movement, with a totally recycled build-out that includes railroad tie shelving, reclaimed wood from the rickety, old dive bar, Waltham Tavern (he and his pals rescued the floor boards from a Dumpster one night last week), and a (faux?) deer antler chandelier. The goods, however, are modern to the max. (Hey, ‘80s styles calls for ‘80s lingo.) Palardy will offer premium picks of select, limited edition style sneakers from such labels as Nike, Puma, Adidas, Converse, Clarks, and Purcell. The shop will cater mostly to men, but there will be a good deal of offerings for urban ladies too. Wonder if they’ll carry those Rainbow Reeboks I had to have back in junior high . . .

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Itsy Bitsy Boston Bikini? Brrrrr. . .

Wish Splash owners Kelley Frey and Jane Rudnick had a plan when they opened this sliver of a store, stocked with itsy bitsy bikinis, designer tunics, floppy hats, preppy totes, and oversize shades. They’d outfit Boston bathing beauties for the short but sweet summer, and for the long, cold winter, uber-fashiony outerwear would take up residence.

Who knew?

Well now we do, and we’re relieved. Boston winters are bland enough without resorting to anonymous parkas. From pea coats to puffers, car coats to cashmere capes, Wish Splash, or Wish Splash Brrr, as we like to refer to it starting in September, stocks the absolute cutest in outerwear options.

Their best brands all are there – Diane von Furstenberg, Milly, Nanette Lepore, Rebecca Taylor, Theory, Tibi, and Vince – ready and waiting to keep you warm and looking great. Our favorite looks include a black and white giraffe print belted car coat in 100% wool, with glossy, oversized buttons, by Milly, a super fun weekend or work look, and a more sophisticated, but still cute, style by Rebecca Taylor – a belted snow-colored coat with a tonal leopard pattern, with pleated bracelet bell sleeves, and large ruffled rolled collar.

Add accessories like hats, gloves, and starves, and you’re so set.

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