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Insider Guide: Allison Kaplan

With a mind for trends and budget, Allison always discovers the latest new shops. Take her advice and take yourself on a tour of signature Minneapolis shops:

The Top Shops That Define Minneapolis Style

StyledLife in Gaviidae Common
Chic accessories for women and men, mixing luxury lines, hot new brands you won't find elsewhere in town and vintage. And as a bonus, the fashion tips from store owner and style consultant Kevin Quinn are free. 555 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis

Cherie Boutique Francais
A pretty and posh beauty boutique with an impressive assortment of high-end cosmetics, soaps and fragrances, plus lingerie and bathroom accessories. 750 East Lake Street, Wayzata

Joynoelle
Fashion designer Joy Teiken has a showroom in New York and famous clients in L.A., but she is committed to living in Minneapolis. Her romantic studio/boutique is filled with show-stopping dresses. 312 West 42nd Street, Minneapolis

Ivy in Calhoun Square and Ivy Men's + Design
From denim to dress-up, these sleek shops challenge you to look your best in the hottest boutique lines. 3001 Hennepin Avenue and 1220 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis

Ampersand in the Galleria
When it comes to living well, this veteran gets it. From fine china to designer candles to an apothecary filled with luxury beauty products, the store exudes class and confidence. 3510 West 70th Street, Edina

A Few More of Allison's Favorites

Favorite place to shop for clothes, accessories, home and gifts
Stephanie's is always filled with the ready-to-wear you want to wear and dresses that make you want to go out. Patina has 4 locations in Minneapolis and Saint Paul; they offer a great selection of stylish handbags and jewelry that won't break the bank.

Gather on France Avenue Minneapolis is the perfect antidote to Pottery Barn binging—contemporary and sophisticated tableware and accessories that you won't see in every home. Plus they have easy and affordable hostess gifts.

For gifts, I recommend the General Store of Minnetonka. I call it the specialty shop on steroids. More than 15,000 square feet of home decor, kitchen gadgets, gourmet foods, jewelry, handbags, bath and body, baby gear, nostalgic games and toys and women's apparel. Great for gift baskets and Minnesota-themed gifts.

Favorite local bargain


Second Debut in St. Louis Park—they offer designer or at least better apparel, accessories and art, in a boutique setting with thrift-store prices. Goodwill weeds out the best donations and sends them here. Great deals and it supports a good cause.

Favorite idea of a night on the town


Dinner at Town Talk Diner followed by bowling at Bryant Lake Bowl, which should burn just enough calories to make room for nachos.