For one-of-a-kind fashions, accessories and home décor, topping your list should be Sophia Boutique

By Patricia Nugent

At the corner of chic and unique, everything at Sophia Boutique—women’s clothing, scarves, belts, shoes, boots, jewelry and home décor—has a story behind it.

This month, the Cleveland Hot List-winning boutique celebrates six years of living up to its status as best-known secret for style-savvy ladies and impeccable customer service.

Its new location, which is several shops down from its previous one, is four times the size to allow for a bigger, better shopping experience.

The interior décor features a patina of moody Monet-esque grays and blues and unexpected trompe-l’oeil elements of exposed white brick and paper birch trees. It’s the perfect backdrop to all the charmingly refurbished antique furniture that doubles as display space for jewelry and home goods.

“Every item in our store is one-of-a-kind and tells a story,” says owner and style maven Terri Kuhar. And when she gives a tour of the boutique, the stories start spilling out.

For instance, she tells that their line of Sleevey Wonders is worn by Lily Tomlin in the hit show, Grace and Frankie. Designed by a “woman of a certain age” who was hot all the time but wanted her arms covered in the winter, the undersleeves are made from whisper-thin material, and since they snap in the front without material around the midsection, they don’t add bulk layered under another shirt. Genius.

She picks out a party-perfect, color-blocked swing dress with long sleeves miraculously attached to the hemline with zippers and mentions it’s from the designer who dresses Carrie Underwood.

“We pick trends we think our shoppers will love,” she says. “For instance, one of the hottest handbags we offer is called a Geo crossbody. It shimmers in geodesic shapes, and works for day and evening. Very big in Europe.”

Bring on the Bling
For enchanting jewelry, Terri brings in several on-trend lines from around the world.

“One of our most popular is a faith-based line call My Saint My Hero,” she says. “Made in Medjugorje, Bosnia, a pilgrimage city where children saw a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1981, these precious hand-woven bracelets are the perfect wearable blessings to give to anyone you care about.”

This month the ladies are also thrilled to introduce the Qudo line of interchangeable jewelry from Germany.

“We’ll sell mostly the stackable rings, which are sensational,” says Terri. “You just twist on the dazzling crystal and mother-of-pearl charms you want to put together. It’s a glamorous effect for a statement ring.”

What’s Hot Right Now?
Terri and her crew of fashionistas travel across the country looking for emerging style trends.

Here are a few you’ll find ripped from the runways and in their boutique:

• Cropped jackets
• Swing coats
• High-waisted jeans
• Animal prints and plaids
• Low boots
• Sneakers with an invisible wedge heel
• Longer length anorak vests in bright colors
• Jumpsuits, jumpsuits, jumpsuits

“But not everyone can wear everything,” she adds. “That’s why our staff underwent training and became certified as image consultants through The Artistry of You program. We can put together the right look for anyone in terms of color, style and lifestyle.”

Home is Where Your Heart Is
The home décor section of the boutique is filled with darling curated items that would make fantastic hostess gifts or just a little something for yourself. Don’t miss the adorable serving pieces, stemless wine glasses, candles upcycled from wine bottles, blankets and gourmet foods.

Since the boutique is part-owned by Oscar Flynn, owner of the adjacent salon Oscar Giovanni, look for some highly stylized fashion shows and trunk shows partnering with the salon.

Procrastinating Husbands
“We understand how our guys like to put off Christmas shopping until the last minute,” says Terri, laughing. “That’s why we throw a special Men’s Night in December. There will be lots of wonderful food, cocktails and models showing them all the latest styles. And we encourage our lady shoppers to fill out their wish list in advance so their hubbies can get what’s under the tree just right this year. Check out our Facebook page for the date.”

Sophia Boutique is located at 7578 Fredle Drive in Painesville. Store hours are Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. An in-house seamstress can do alterations. Call 440-289-1196 or visit Sophia.Boutique for more information.