The Good Life: Combo Stores June 2006

Call it an identity crisis, but we’re all over Philly boutiques that mix and match goods and services.

Call it an identity crisis, but we’re all over Philly boutiques that mix and match random goods and services. Take Art Star (1030 North 2nd Street, unit 301; 215-238-1557), a gallery showcasing exhibits from emerging artists—as well as slip dresses, printed tees, gold bracelets and ceramic dinnerware. Bambi Project (1817 Frankford Avenue, 215-423-2668; bambiproject.com) houses a similar concept, emphasizing local artists, clothes and accessories. Closet Fever (707 North 2nd Street, 215-627-4600; closetfever.com), pictured right, and PhillyMag crush Matthew Izzo Lifestyle (1109 Walnut Street, 215-829-0606; matthewizzo.com) serve up full-service salons with their edgy wares. And the mecca of one-stop shopping is makeup depot A Beautiful Life (9 West Bridge Street, New Hope, 215-862-8838; abeautifullife.com), which stocks Betsey Johnson pieces, Tarina Tarantino jewelry and—aahhhh—a working spa.