The tables are piled high with gifts and trinkets, while racks of clothes wind through the glamorously styled Britash.
At first glance, the Mentor boutique looks like your average women’s clothing store with crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceilings, giant mirrors taking over the walls and printed rugs stretching out below your feet. But this isn’t just another chic spot to nab a pair of skinny jeans or a nubby sweater — though you’ll find those here.
Sisters Brittanie and Ashleigh Olson and their mother Christie wanted a store that offers trendy, affordable fashions but also gives women a place to relax. Inspired by boutiques in Miami and on Los Angeles’ Rodeo Drive, they wanted to include a full-service spa offering facials, makeup applications and more.
“We love being able to get your makeup done in the same store that you buy a new outfit,” says Brittanie, a co-owner and licensed aesthetician. “That’s what we wanted to bring here, something this area hasn’t seen before.”
Browse gifts such as Peace Organic’s coffee body butter ($14.95) and serving dishes from Mudpie ($20) with engraved sayings such as “let’s dip.”
The clothing racks are filled with brands such as POL — check out its new plush sweaters ($48) — and Fantastic Fawn, whose floral velvet kimono ($52) gives all the fall vibes. The salon, offering services and skin care products, covers the back of the shop. Get your makeup done for a wedding, event or just for fun ($30) or sit back and relax for a 60-minute facial ($85) performed by a licensed aesthetician.
“We want to be a place where people want to come,” says Christie. “Whether it is to grab a gift or to hang out, we want them to feel comfortable here.” Britash, 9324 Mentor Ave, Mentor, facebook.com/mybritash
Velvet Crush
The soft, shiny material is making a comeback. Whether it’s a dress, pants, kimono or even shoes, velvet is in this fall and winter — and still gives major ’70s vibes. “Velvet is timeless and classy, but it’s also going to give you that warmth,” says Brittanie Olson.
Double Duty
Keep your skin soft and protected from the harsh winter weather by investing in a foundation that has all-natural ingredients and improves your skin such as the Beauty Counter’s Tint Skin Hydrating Foundation ($42). “It goes on pretty dewy and lightweight, but will cover any blemishes,” she says. “But you can feel confident putting it on your skin, because it is made without any harsh chemicals.”
Nearby Find: Havel’s Flowers and Greenhouses’ flowers, succulents, gift baskets and more are perfect for adding a personal touch to your home or as a holiday gift. 9294 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-255-8880, havelsflowers.com
