In early February, Vogue released a sprawling guide to the best and brightest small businesses across our nation. From coast to coast, they assembled a list of more than 59 most beloved boutiques for their shopping directory, the Independents. Scroll through their favorite shopping destinations—from Chicago’s Ikram to New Orleans’s Sunday Shop—that crawls across all 50 states.
A joint effort between several editors, the directory was born from a collective desire to shine a spotlight on favorite small businesses amid the economic storm brought on by the pandemic. Vogue knows the power of fashion; how a pretty little something (for the home or the wardrobe) can lift the spirits, and they wanted to compile a list of places to find them. They also asked for readers help and collected nominations from their audience. Read on for the plant purveyors, artisanal jewelry stores, and one-of-a-kind vintage shops selected by our readers.
Framed Ewe
Founded by Christy Kimball and Stephen Clark, Framed Ewe set out to offer the best experience for its customers looking for a new pair of eyewear. Shop a wide assortment of spectacles and sunglasses from labels such as Salt and Ahlem as well as specialty frames from Jacques Marie Mage. Easily set up an eye exam consultation and styling session (virtually or in-person) or peruse the online shop for the perfect set of shades. Framed Ewe was established in 2012 in Phoenix and has since launched outposts in Los Angeles, including Fred Segal. The founders see Framed Ewe as not only a place to help bring independent eyewear designers to the forefront but a place to support local communities. The shops host fundraisers and act as gallery spaces for up-and-coming artists. —Julie Tong